What causes contact dermatitis on hands.

There are three types of contact dermatitis: allergic contact dermatitis irritant contact dermatitis photocontact dermatitis Photocontact dermatitis is less common. It’s a reaction that can occur when the active ingredients in a skin product are exposed to the sun and result in irritation. Allergic contact dermatitis Allergic contact dermatitis occurs when the skin develops an allergic reaction after being exposed to a foreign substance. This causes the body to release inflammatory chemicals that can make the skin feel itchy and irritated. Common causes of allergic contact dermatitis include contact with: jewelry made from nickel or gold latex gloves perfumes or chemicals in cosmetics and skin care products poison oak or poison ivy Irritant contact dermatitis Irritant contact dermatitis is the most common type of contact dermatitis. It happens when the skin comes in contact with a toxic material. Toxic substances that can cause irritant contact dermatitis include: battery acid bleach drain cleaners kerosene detergents pepper spray Irritant contact dermatitis can also occur when the skin comes in contact with less irritating materials — like soap or even water — too often. People whose hands are frequently exposed to water, such as hairdressers, bartenders, and healthcare workers, often experience irritant contact dermatitis of the hands, for example.

Most cases of contact dermatitis go away on their own once the substance is no longer in contact with the skin. Here are some tips you can try at home: Avoid scratching your irritated skin. Scratching can make the irritation worse or even cause a skin infection that requires antibiotics. Clean your skin with mild soap and lukewarm water to remove any irritants. Stop using any products you think might be causing the problem. Apply bland petroleum jelly like Vaseline to soothe the area. Try using anti-itch treatments such as calamine lotion or hydrocortisone cream (Cortisone-10). If needed, take an antihistamine drug such as diphenhydramine to cut down on itching and to reduce your allergic response. You can purchase these items at most drugstores or online. Most times, contact dermatitis isn’t cause for concern. However, you should seek medical attention if your rash is close to your eyes or mouth, covers a large area of your body, or doesn’t improve with home treatment. Your doctor can prescribe a more potent steroid cream if home treatments don’t soothe your skin.