There are actually two types of contact dermatitis: allergic and irritant.  Allergic contact dermatitis is a result from a reaction of the immune system.  In this case, the immune system overreacts to a substance, the immediately produces antibodies against the substance.  When these antibodies come in contact with the allergen, hormones and chemicals known as mediators are released.  Histamine is a common mediator that causes itchiness and rashes.  Typically, the initial exposure to the substance does not cause a reaction, but your skin will react to the next exposure.

Irritant contact dermatitis occurs when the skin immediately reacts to a substance that damages skin.  The longer the irritating substance stays on the skin, the more severe the reaction.

The most common contact dermatitis allergens include:

• Plant allergens such as poison oak, poison ivy and poison sumac,
• Chemicals found in hair dyes, perms, and relaxers
• Chemicals found in household cleaners
• Nickel, a metal found in jewelry
• Latex rubber
• Peeling of citrus fruits
• Tanning agents in leather
• Detergents
• Some medications
• Perfumes/fragrances in soaps, shampoos, lotions, deodorants and other cosmetic products.

Contact Dermatitis Treatments

Allergic contact dermatitis treatment

For immediate relief of contact dermatitis:

• Avoid scratching the areas of your skin that itch
• Apply damp, cool compresses to the affected areas
• Thoroughly wash the affected areas with tepid water to remove all traces of irritants on the skin
• Avoid any soaps that irritate your skin
• Treat dry and chapped irritated areas with an emollient such as Vaseline
• Avoid using alcohol or medicated lotion on the skin.

Irritant contact dermatitis treatment