Contact dermatitis is a type of skin inflammation that occurs when the skin comes into contact with an irritant or allergen. It can cause various symptoms, depending on the trigger and the individual’s sensitivity to the substance. Although most reactions are not severe, they can still be uncomfortable. Fortunately, contact dermatitis is generally easy to manage. However, in rare cases, some individuals may experience severe complications.
Causes of Contact Dermatitis: Allergic
Contact dermatitis can be classified into two types: allergic and irritant. Allergic contact dermatitis is triggered when an individual with a specific allergy or sensitivity comes into direct contact with the allergen. One of the most prevalent causes of allergic contact dermatitis is exposure to poison ivy, as a vast majority (around 70%) of the United States population is sensitive to the chemicals found in poison ivy and poison oak.
Causes of Contact Dermatitis: Irritant
Contact dermatitis can occur when the skin comes into contact with certain chemical or physical agents, leading to inflammation. This type of dermatitis is known as irritant contact dermatitis. Physical irritants can include friction or abrasion, while chemical irritants can range from toxic substances like hydrofluoric acid to less severe irritants like hand soap. Hospital staff, for example, may develop irritant dermatitis from frequent use of hand soap. The severity and classification of the irritants can vary, with some causing immediate damage and others having a cumulative effect over time.