All about contact dermatitis

We often see an increase in contact dermatitis through the spring and summer months.  Contact dermatitis comes in 2 flavors:  irritation and true allergy.  Allergic contact dermatitis only makes up 10% of cases but are what we typically think of regarding a skin allergy. 

The classic example is Poison Ivy Dermatitis caused by the urushiol chemical in poison ivy, oak and sumac contacting the skin and causing super itchy spots and streaks on the skin.  Poison ivy takes 24-48 hours after exposure to develop (longer if this is your first-ever experience) and takes 3-4 weeks to resolve.

I often point out to my patients poison ivy is 100% natural but also VERY allergenic for the skin!  This is a reminder that botanicals and “natural” or “essential oils” are common causes of allergic contact dermatitis. 

Other common causes of allergic dermatitis are Neosporin (15% of the population is allergic to neomycin!), nickel (think belt buckles and pant buttons), hair dyes, nail polish/artificial nails, fragrances in personal care products, preservatives in personal care products, clothing dyes, and the list is growing every year!