Contact dermatitis is a common condition that can lead to significant discomfort and discoloration of the skin. It’s not generally serious, but many patients still choose to seek out dermatitis treatment options to prevent the itchiness and swelling. The guide below explains what you can expect.

Causes

Contact dermatitis occurs when the skin comes into direct contact with an irritant that spurs an allergic reaction. For example, some people act negatively to poison ivy, certain cleaning supplies or chemicals, or some makeup and skin care products. Their body’s immune system sends histamines to the area where the contact occurred, resulting in a localized rash.

Symptoms

Contact dermatitis normally includes skin redness and itchiness. The intensity of the rash can vary from fairly innocuous to large and blistery. Often, symptoms start to pop up within minutes of contact with an irritant. Therefore, when you notice them, think back on what might be the cause so you can avoid that trigger going forward.

If you’re not sure what’s causing your reaction, visit a dermatologist. They can perform patch tests on your skin to identify the culprit. This involves applying small amounts of common allergens to your skin to judge whether or not you have a reaction.

Treatment Options

While you might choose to wait out some reactions, symptoms that persist or include severe itching or blisters should be checked by a dermatologist. They may recommend dermatitis treatment methods like antihistamines, corticosteroid creams, or an oatmeal bath.

If you’re looking for help with dermatitis treatment, contact Heibel Dermatology Clinic, LLC. This certified dermatologist team has more than 20 years of experience treating a wide array of skin issues, including rosacea, acne, psoriasis, and even skin cancer. To see a full list of service options, visit the center’s website. To request an appointment, call (402) 488-6969 for Lincoln or (402) 564-1476 for Columbus, NE. Learn skin care tips on Facebook.