Allergic Contact Dermatitis

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1. What is Allergic Contact Dermatitis?
2. What Causes Allergic Contact Dermatitis?
3. Allergic Contact Dermatitis Symptoms
4. How is Allergic Contact Dermatitis Diagnosed?
5. Allergic Contact Dermatitis Treatment
6. What to Expect During Treatment
7. What to Expect After Treatment
8. Schedule a Consultation

Allergic contact dermatitis can be a frustrating condition, but consultation with a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Liz Damstetter can help identify triggers that are keeping your skin inflamed. Allergic contact dermatitis causes an itchy and red rash as a result of contact with an irritant such as household products, cosmetics, metals, or plants like poison ivy. Through proper care with a dermatologist, you can manage symptoms and prevent future reactions.

What is Allergic Contact Dermatitis?

Allergic contact dermatitis, or irritant contact dermatitis, is a type of eczema (atopic dermatitis) caused by an allergic reaction. It is caused by direct contact with an allergen, such as a type of metal, household product, or cosmetic, resulting in irritation and an itchy rash. Some may refer to allergic contact dermatitis simply as a “contact allergy.” The condition is most common among those in careers that put them in closer contact with common allergens or irritants, such as healthcare workers, hairdressers, or custodians.

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“I had a recent visit to Dr Damstetter’s clinic and would like to share my experience. I am a Navy vet(corpsman) and usually get seen at the VA but since we don’t have a Derm provider right now, I was fortunately sent out to her clinic to be evaluated. It’s a nice clinic in a nice area and was relatively easy to find. A pleasant Ms. Nancy at the front desk was helpful in completing the check-in process. Easy day. I did not have to wait long and was soon met by Dr. Damstetter’s assistant, who for classified reasons I will refer to as “Agent 8”. I am sure if she gets tired of providing excellent medical care, her slick-ninja skillset could get her a job with the CIA or MI6 maybe. Short story long, Agent 8 brought me back to the patient area, where I was introduced to Dr Damstetter, who was all the things you would want in a doctor: a knowledgeable provider with a great bedside manner. She gave me a thorough exam which did end up showing that I needed a minor procedure. No worries. I felt well taken care of throughout my visit. No one likes to have to see the doctor, but if you have a dermatological concern, this is a good place with good people who did great by me, and I am thankful to have been sent here.”

“Dr. Liz is truly the best dermatologist I’ve ever been to. She is attentive, kind, and genuinely cares about her patients and their overall skin health. I can not recommend her enough!!!”

“Wonderful experience here! The doctor took the time to educate me on a variety of cosmetic options and gave her candid opinion resulting in just the right amount of cosmetic adjustments! Her staff was delightful and attentive! I would highly recommend for general derm needs and cosmetic adjustments.”

“Dr. Damstetter was the first dermatologist I trusted to do my Botox. She is both knowledgeable and professional and did a fantastic job. I will be using her for any and all of my future needs.”

What Causes Allergic Contact Dermatitis?

Allergic contact dermatitis starts with exposure to an allergen that activates the immune system within the skin. Some common contact allergens include:

• Fragrances or perfumes
• Metal, especially nickel
• Adhesives
• Cosmetic or personal care products including makeup, skin care, soaps, nail polish, or hair dyes and laundry detergents
• Topical medications such as antibiotics
• Plants such as poison ivy

Patients who have asthma, hay fever, or atopic dermatitis are more likely to experience allergic contact dermatitis. It is possible to develop an allergy or allergic dermatitis at any point in your life, even if you have tolerated contact with a material in the past.

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Liz Damstetter, MD

Board-Certified Dermatologist

Meet the Doctor

Allergic Contact Dermatitis Symptoms

A contact dermatitis rash can be uncomfortable. Typically, allergic contact dermatitis will cause a red rash where the skin was in contact with the irritant or allergen. This rash may also be painful, itchy, or swollen. Hives and blisters can also occur as well as peeling or bleeding. The itchy skin rash will remain as long as you continue to come into contact with the irritant, meaning it’s important to prompylt determine the underlying cause.

How is Allergic Contact Dermatitis Diagnosed?

If you are unsure of what has caused your reaction, a patch allergy test may be required to diagnose contact dermatitis. This involves applying possible allergens to the skin in a controlled manner to check for any skin reactions or allergic response. Patch allergy testing for irritant contact dermatitis may require coordinated care with an allergist. During your appointment, Dr. Damstetter can help you determine the appropriate care plan.

Allergic Contact Dermatitis Treatment

The primary concern in treating allergic contact dermatitis is to avoid contact with the offending allergen. Avoiding contact for two to four weeks should generally allow the skin to heal. During this period, Dr. Damstetter can also prescribe topical treatments including steroids and anti-inflammatories, and occasionally oral medications for severe symptoms. Appropriate skincare products are essential to healing from allergic contact dermatitis and sometimes to prevent contact dermatitis.

Some allergic contact dermatitis symptoms can be managed at home. If you notice developing allergic contact dermatitis, apply a cold compress to the area to reduce inflammation. Keep the area hydrated with a mild, fragrance-free moisturizer, or apply a barrier cream to protect irritated skin. During your appointment, Dr. Damstetter can advise you on at-home care to avoid or manage allergic contact dermatitis.

What to Expect During Treatment

When treatment begins for allergic contact dermatitis, the first step is identifying and avoiding the allergen, especially if repeated exposure has contributed to the reaction. Allergic contact dermatitis involves inflammation of the affected skin, which may be managed with topical steroids to reduce swelling and redness. In acute allergic contact dermatitis, symptoms such as itching and blistering can be sudden and intense, requiring prompt attention. Dr. Damstetter may also use topical antibiotics if the affected area is at risk for infection or recommend further evaluation, such as a skin biopsy, to rule out other skin conditions. Education on risk factors and lifestyle adjustments is an important part of managing and preventing future episodes.

What to Expect After Treatment

After treatment, symptoms usually improve steadily, especially in mild to moderate cases. For patients experiencing severe allergic contact dermatitis or systemic contact dermatitis, healing may take longer and require a more comprehensive treatment plan. Acute contact dermatitis typically resolves within a few weeks once the allergen is removed and the skin is properly cared for. Continued use of fragrance-free moisturizers and protective products can help relieve itching and strengthen the skin barrier. In severe cases, follow-up visits may be necessary to ensure full recovery and prevent recurrence.

Schedule a Consultation

To learn more about treating allergic contact dermatitis, schedule an appointment with Dr. Damstetter. Call Reserve Dermatology in Glenview, IL or contact us online to schedule your first appointment.