Contact dermatitis -  symptoms, causes and treatment

What is contact dermatitis?

Contact dermatitis occurs when the skin's natural protective barrier is disrupted by external substances. The skin reacts with inflammation, which can lead to redness, itching, and various types of rashes.

There are two main types: irritant contact dermatitis and allergic contact dermatitis. In irritant contact dermatitis, the reaction is caused by direct damage or irritation to the skin, while allergic contact dermatitis occurs as a result of an allergic reaction to a specific substance (an allergen).

Contact dermatitis is not contagious.

What does contact dermatitis look like?

Contact dermatitis can manifest itself in many different ways. Some experience dry and irritated skin, while others develop a more pronounced itchy rash with redness, scaling, or small blisters.

The rash often occurs where the skin has been in contact with the trigger substance. For example, it can be on the hands after contact with cleaning agents, on the neck after jewelry, or on the face after using cosmetics or skin care products.

Allergic and irritant contact dermatitis

Irritant contact dermatitis is the most common form of contact dermatitis. It typically develops over time as a result of repeated exposure to water, soap, detergents, or other substances that dry out and irritate the skin.

Allergic contact dermatitis, on the other hand, is caused by a hypersensitivity reaction in the immune system. Once the allergy has developed, even small amounts of the substance in question can trigger eczema.

Nickel allergy, perfume allergy and contact allergy

Nickel allergy is among the most common causes of allergic contact dermatitis. Symptoms often occur on areas of the skin that have been in contact with jewelry, watch straps, or other metal objects.

Perfume allergy can also cause contact dermatitis. Perfume is not only found in cosmetics, but also in many skin care products, cleaning products and other products used in everyday life.

In addition, contact allergies can be caused by preservatives, rubber, adhesives and certain plant extracts, among other things.

How do you find the cause?

An important part of the assessment is to identify the factors that trigger or worsen the eczema. Information about work, leisure activities, skin care products and previous skin diseases may be relevant here.

If allergic contact dermatitis is suspected, further allergy testing may be relevant to clarify whether contact allergy is present.

Examination and treatment of contact dermatitis

The diagnosis is made based on the medical history and an examination of the skin.

Treatment depends on the cause of the eczema and the severity of the symptoms. An important part of treatment is to limit or avoid the exposure that triggers the skin reaction. In addition, medical treatment can be used to reduce the inflammatory reaction in the skin and relieve the symptoms.

Skin care and protection of the skin barrier are often an important part of treatment.

When should you see a dermatologist?



It may be relevant to be evaluated by a dermatologist if the rash keeps returning, if the symptoms do not improve as expected, or if the cause of the skin changes is unclear.

An assessment may also be relevant if contact allergy is suspected or if the symptoms affect work, sleep or quality of life.