Contact Dermatitis
Alternate Names : Allergic Contact Dermatitis, Irritant Contact Dermatitis
What can be done to prevent the condition?
To prevent contact dermatitis, a person can take the following steps:
Substitute vinyl gloves, if he or she has an allergic reaction to latex or
other forms of rubber.
Choose hypoallergenic perfumes, cosmetics, deodorants, and jewelry.
Wear gloves, long pants, and long sleeves for protection from poison ivy,
poison oak, and poison sumac plants.
Apply hypoallergenic lotion to skin often.
Once an individual is aware of allergens that trigger
their contact dermatitis, they should take steps to avoid the trigger. For
example, people sensitive to PPD can use temporary hair rinses or dyes that are
PPD-free. A person sensitive to neomycin ointment should use antibiotic
ointments that don't contain that medication.
What are the long-term effects of the condition?
If contact dermatitis is not treated effectively, the individual may have
almost constant outbreaks of the allergic reaction. Skin may become very
irritated, with skin thickening and changes in color. Secondary infections can
occur.
What are the risks to others?
Contact dermatitis is not contagious and poses no risk to others.
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