What is contact dermatitis?

You have contact dermatitis when your skin gets a rash after something irritating touches it.

What is the cause?

The skin may touch something that irritates it, like:

• soaps or detergents
• cleaning products
• waxes or polishes.

You may be allergic to something that touches your skin, like:

• hair dyes
• jewelry
• fingernail polish
• deodorants.

Examples of other things that may cause a rash are:

• rubber
• nickel
• poison ivy.

What are the symptoms?

Your skin may:

• itch
• swell
• look red
• have blisters that may break open and ooze, crust, or scale.

You may even get an infection.

How is it diagnosed?

Your health care provider will look at the rash. He or she will ask you:

• Where did the rash start?
• What did it look like at first?
• What might have touched your skin lately?

How is it treated?

Your health care provider may give you:

• a cream to stop the itching
• pills to help stop itching or allergic reactions
• medicine for the swelling if your rash is very bad.

How long will it take to get better?

Treatment should help your rash get better over the next few days.

How can I take care of myself?

Follow your health care provider's advice. It can help if you:

• Do not irritate the rash.
• Stay away from what caused the rash.
• Put cool, moist cloths on the rash.

How can I help prevent it?

If you know what caused the rash,

• Make sure it is not in the makeup, soap, or other products that you use.
• Wash your skin right away, if you do touch something that irritates it.
• If you are allergic to some metals, like nickel, find out what metal is in jewelry before you wear it.

Even if you don't know what caused your rash, it can help to follow these suggestions:

• Learn what poison oak, poison ivy, and ragweed look like. Stay away from these plants.
• Use makeup that does not cause allergies. Look for the word "hypoallergenic" when you buy.
• When you skin gets wet, pat it dry. Don't rub it.
• Try not to use chemicals. Wear safe gloves when you have to use chemicals.
• Use a dishwasher. Or wear rubber gloves when you wash dishes.