Allergic Contact Dermatitis

Allergic Contact Dermatitis (ACD) is an allergic reaction of the skin usually caused by contact with an allergen. Allergens can be any number of substances, including metals, preservatives found in shampoos or lotions, fragrances, or rubber. Symptoms of ACD can vary from mild to severe and may include redness, swelling, itching, burning, and blisters.

Most cases of ACD can be treated successfully with over-the-counter topical corticosteroids, antihistamines, and moisturizers. If the symptoms are severe or persist, a doctor may prescribe stronger topical or systemic corticosteroids. It is important to identify and avoid the allergen, as this is the primary treatment for ACD.

It is possible to develop an allergy to any substance. People may be exposed to a substance multiple times before noticing the onset of symptoms. Common allergens include:

nickel
rubber
hair dye
cosmetic ingredients
preservatives
medications
poison ivy/oak

Symptoms of ACD may include the following:

itching
blistering
dry, scaly patches
redness and swelling
severe burning
lesions

When attempting to diagnose and treat ACD, it is important to assess the cause. Your doctor may recommend patch testing, which involves applying patch containing suspected allergens to the skin and then monitoring for signs of an allergic reaction. This can help determine the exact allergen triggering the symptoms.

Once the allergen is identified, it can be avoided in the future. This is the best way to prevent recurrences of ACD. It is important to read labels on cosmetics, medications, and cleaning supplies to make sure that the product does not contain the allergen.