Allergic dermatitis, also known as contact dermatitis, is an allergic reaction that occurs on the skin due to contact with an irritating substance such as soap, cosmetics, costume jewelry, and even flea bites, producing red spots and itching at the site that was in contact with the substance.
Generally, allergic dermatitis does not cause health problems, nor does it endanger the patient's life, however, it can be very uncomfortable or cause skin infections if not treated properly.
Allergic dermatitis is curable as long as the patient does not come in contact with the substance to which he is allergic and therefore it may be necessary to consult a dermatologist for an allergy test in order to identify the substance that is causing the dermatitis.
Pictures of allergic dermatitis
Symptoms of allergic dermatitis
Symptoms of allergic dermatitis may include:
- Local redness;
- Small blisters or skin lesions;
- Itching or burning;
- Skin peeling or swelling of the site.
These allergic dermatitis symptoms can appear immediately after being in contact with the substance or take up to 48 hours to appear, depending on the intensity of the allergy, the patient's immune system and the time that has been in contact with the substance.
How to treat allergic dermatitis
Treatment for allergic dermatitis should be directed by a dermatologist, but the patient should normally avoid the substance that is causing allergy in order to relieve symptoms and prevent dermatitis from recurring. Learn how to use food to improve dermatitis.
In addition, your doctor may prescribe emollient creams, such as Mustela or Uriage Emollient, or ointments for allergic dermatitis, such as Dexamethasone, to help decrease skin irritation and redness, relieving itching and discomfort. Here's a great home remedy for relieving symptoms: Home remedy for contact dermatitis.
In the more severe cases, where the dermatitis does not disappear with the use of creams, the dermatologist may prescribe the use of antihistaminic remedies, such as Desloratadine or Cetirizine, to increase the treatment effect.
Learn about other forms of dermatitis in:
- Dermatitis herpetiformis
- Seborrheic dermatitis
