Irritant and allergic types Irritant contact dermatitis can follow soaps, detergents, disinfectants, chemicals or repeated wet work. Allergic contact dermatitis may be triggered by fragrance, hair dye, metals, preservatives, rubber or cosmetic ingredients.
Symptoms The rash may be red, itchy, dry, cracked, swollen or blistered. The location often provides a clue, such as hands after cleaning products or ears after jewellery.
Diagnosis and treatment Treatment begins with avoiding the suspected trigger, gentle cleansing and frequent fragrance-free moisturiser. Topical corticosteroids or other anti-inflammatory medicines may be prescribed. Patch testing can help identify delayed contact allergies when the cause is uncertain or the rash keeps returning.
Seek urgent care for severe facial swelling, breathing difficulty or a rapidly spreading blistering rash. Persistent hand dermatitis, infection or symptoms affecting work should be assessed by a dermatologist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is contact dermatitis contagious?
No.
What is patch testing?
A test that checks for delayed allergic reactions to common substances.
Can hand sanitiser cause irritation?
Frequent use can irritate some skin, especially when the barrier is damaged.
Will the rash return?
It can return whenever the skin meets the trigger again.
This information is for education only and does not replace medical assessment or treatment by a qualified physician.