As the temperature dips with each passing day, we also notice a dip in our skin health. Cracked feet, dry skin, rashes and innumerable other skin issues. One raging skin issue that several of us are facing is contact dermatitis. This calls for the need for awareness around this condition– making it imperative to understand its symptoms, causes, and treatment options.
To understand the same, we at OnlyMyHealth contacted Dr. Kashish Kalra, Founder of Dr. Kalra's Skin Clinic, Head of Dermatology and Consultant at Smart Max Hospital, Saket, New Delhi.
RELATED: Benefits Of Zinc For Dandruff: Dermat Shares How To Deal And Manage It
What Is Contact Dermatitis?
-1734682221701.jpg)
“Dermatitis is any inflammation of the skin, which can be itchy or which can be red. So when we shift our focus towards contact dermatitis, as the name suggests, it is due to contact with a particular allergen”, says Dr Kalra.
Our expert then highlights that contact dermatitis can be of two types which include subsequent causes.
Irritant contact dermatitis
According to Dr Kalra, irritant contact dermatitis is when an irritant causes inflammation on the skin, when your skin comes in contact with it. Common irritants include acids, cleaners, soaps, and detergents. It's not essential for you to be allergic to it. Irritant contact dermatitis is equally irritating for everybody, irrespective of individual skin types. Secondly, the reaction that stems from irritant contact dermatitis is very sudden. It hardly takes half an hour, and you can instantly see the itching, redness or inflammation on the skin.
Allergic contact dermatitis
“In this type of contact dermatitis, your immune system sends a hypersensitive reaction towards a particular allergen”, says Dr Kalra. Allergens include soaps, detergents, hair colours, plant pollen, etc. Our expert emphasised that allergic contact dermatitis stems from very specific allergens only.
Telltale Signs And Symptoms Of Contact Dermatitis
-1734682241213.jpg)
Dr Kalra lists itching as a primary sign; he says that it can present as an itchy red rash, as blisters, as eczema-like oozing lesions, and pus. He emphasises that sometimes people come very late, and they scratch it a lot. So, there is an itch-scratch cycle. With allergens, if you scratch it, the pre-existing itching mediators would cause you more itching.
Other signs and symptoms include,
- A rash that itches
- Hyperpigmented leathery patches that are darker than normal, usually on brown or black skin
- Usually on white skin, dry, cracked, and scaly skin
- Bumps and blisters, occasionally accompanied by crusting and leaking
- Tenderness, burning, or swelling
RELATED: Trying To Manage Atopic Dermatitis Or Eczema? Expert Recommends Silk Clothing To Avoid Flare-Ups
How Is Contact Dermatitis Treated?
According to Dr. Kalra, treatment for contact dermatitis largely depends on the specific type and severity of the condition. A detailed medical history is crucial for determining the right approach. While there is no solid cure, symptoms can be managed effectively through care.
For mild cases, treatment often involves certain creams and intensive moisturisation. In more severe cases, medications like antihistamines or other anti-allergic treatments may be necessary. Counselling can also play a key role, particularly when dealing with chronic or recurring symptoms. It’s essential to note that allergic contact dermatitis can spread beyond the initial area of contact, affecting other parts of the body.
Takeaway
With skin conditions being a major concern among several of us during winters, it is essential to keep a track of whatever's happening with our skin-- that being said, do not brush away signs, no matter how insignificant that itch may seem, get it checked by an expert.
Managing contact dermatitis effectively involves a combination of identifying triggers, preventing exposure, and seeking appropriate treatment. While prevention is the best strategy, consulting a dermatologist ensures proper care and symptom relief.