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Rashes
Redness of the skin
Itchy
Skin itching that worsens at night
Cosmetics reaction
Skin rash with diapers
There is a sore
Not seeing your symptoms? No worries!
What is Contact Dermatitis?
Rashes that occur due to direct contact with a substance, or an allergic reaction to it. Examples include reactions to jewelry or watches, or to plants like poison ivy.
Typical Symptoms of Contact Dermatitis
- Itchy skin
- Rashes in an area exposed to plants, metals, clothing, rubber or medications
- Known food allergy
- Difficulty breathing after contact with possible allergens
- Itchy skin that gets worse at night
- Redness or bumps on the skin, that occur or worsen with cosmetics
- Red, bumpy rashes after contact with rubber gloves or diapers
- Exposed to something that you were previously allergic to
Diagnostic Questions for Contact Dermatitis
Your doctor may ask these questions to check for this disease:
- Do you have itchy skin?
- Did your skin have any reactions to plants, metals, clothing, rubber, or chemicals?
- Have you ever had food allergies?
- Do you have difficulty breathing after contact with possible allergens?
- Does your skin get itchier at night?
Treatment of Contact Dermatitis
The first step is identifying and avoiding the cause, such as jewelry or shampoo. Avoid harsh soaps and detergents, and wear gloves if necessary. Moisturizers and steroid creams can help with healing.
Reviewed By:
Unnati Patel, MD, MSc (Family Medicine)
Dr.Patel serves as Center Medical Director and a Primary Care Physician at Oak Street Health in Arizona. She graduated from the Zhejiang University School of Medicine prior to working in clinical research focused on preventive medicine at the University of Illinois and the University of Nevada. Dr. Patel earned her MSc in Global Health from Georgetown University, during which she worked with the WHO in Sierra Leone and Save the Children in Washington, D.C. She went on to complete her Family Medicine residency in Chicago at Norwegian American Hospital before completing a fellowship in Leadership in Value-based Care in conjunction with the Northwestern University Kellogg School of Management, where she earned her MBA. Dr. Patel’s interests include health tech and teaching medical students and she currently serves as Clinical Associate Professor at the University of Arizona School of Medicine.
Yukiko Ueda, MD (Dermatology)
Dr. Ueda graduated from the Niigata University School of Medicine and trained at the University of Tokyo Medical School. She is currently a clinical assistant professor at the Department of Dermatology, Jichi Medical University, and holds several posts in the dermatology departments at Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Komagome Hospital, University of Tokyo, and the Medical Center of Japan Red Cross Society.
Content updated on Mar 31, 2024
Following the Medical Content Editorial Policy
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People with similar symptoms also use Ubie's symptom checker to find possible causes
- The skin is itchy and has scratches
- Itch is mild
- Itching
- Scratching the skin
- Nighttime itch is worse
- Persistent, mild itch
- Itch
- A scratch
- Itch improves during the day
- Itch is minor
See full list
Symptoms Related to Contact Dermatitis
Diseases Related to Contact Dermatitis
FAQs
Q.
Is your derma roller damaging your skin? Why your face is reacting + medical next steps.
A.
There are several factors to consider: brief redness or tightness that fades in 24 to 72 hours is typical, but lingering redness, swelling, burning, oozing, worsening acne, or new dark spots suggest harm to the skin barrier, contact dermatitis from products, infection, acne spread, or pigment changes. Pause the roller, stop retinoids, acids, and fragrances, use a gentle cleanser and barrier-repair moisturizer, and seek medical care promptly for infection signs or if symptoms persist; more specific red flags, safer needle lengths and timing, and step by step medical guidance are detailed below.
References:
* Cho S, Lee D, Jeong JS, Lee YJ, Ryu HJ, Cho BK, Park HJ. Complications of microneedling: A systematic review. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2020 Sep;19(9):2184-2191. doi: 10.1111/jocd.13508. Epub 2020 Jul 17. PMID: 32679237.
* Iriarte C, Awosika O, Rengifo-Pardo M, Ehrlich A, Izakovic J. Microneedling: a comprehensive review. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2017 Dec 22;10:487-498. doi: 10.2147/CCID.S142453. eCollection 2017. PMID: 29338275.
* Lim SY, Lee YJ, Han A. Adverse events of microneedling: a systematic review. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2021 Jul;20(7):2020-2030. doi: 10.1111/jocd.13840. Epub 2020 Nov 23. PMID: 34103859.
* Zheng S, Yu W, Zhang X, Li X, Liang T. Bacterial infection after microneedling: A case report. Medicine (Baltimore). 2023 Sep 15;102(37):e35266. doi: 10.1097/MD.0000000000035266. PMID: 37728616; PMCID: PMC10502263.
* Poudel J, Ziccardi M, Nally J, Stein J. Allergic contact dermatitis following microneedling with hyaluronic acid serum. JAAD Case Rep. 2020 Apr 2;6(4):287-288. doi: 10.1016/j.jdcr.2020.02.029. PMID: 32267595; PMCID: PMC7115848.
Q.
Latex Allergy? Why Your Skin Is Reacting & Medically Approved Steps
A.
Latex reactions range from irritant dermatitis to delayed allergic contact dermatitis and immediate latex allergy that can cause hives, swelling, and rarely anaphylaxis; stop exposure, use latex-free alternatives, treat mild rashes with moisturizer, hydrocortisone, or antihistamines, and seek urgent care for any breathing or throat symptoms. There are several factors to consider, and the medically approved next steps like when to get patch or skin testing, who is at higher risk, how to avoid triggers, and when to carry epinephrine are explained below.
References:
* Katelaris CH, Smith WB, Koplin J, Tang MLK, Mehr SS, Campbell DE, Van Nassauw L. ASCIA Guidelines for latex allergy management. Intern Med J. 2023 Apr;53(4):618-624. doi: 10.1111/imj.15949. Epub 2023 Feb 23. PMID: 37021576.
* Preev A, Eapen M, Eapen MS, Eapen MP. Allergic Reactions to Latex: A Review. Cureus. 2020 Aug 17;12(8):e9790. doi: 10.7759/cureus.9790. PMID: 32943725; PMCID: PMC7496229.
* Kumar P, Kumar R. Latex allergy: an update on risk factors, diagnosis, and management. Curr Opin Allergy Clin Immunol. 2019 Aug;19(4):353-358. doi: 10.1097/ACI.0000000000000551. PMID: 30635294.
* Palosuo T, Alenius H. Type IV allergy to natural rubber latex. Contact Dermatitis. 2018 Feb;78(2):123-128. doi: 10.1111/cod.12933. Epub 2017 Dec 28. PMID: 29330107.
* Sussman G, Beezhold D. Latex allergy: a review of the past 30 years. Allergy Asthma Clin Immunol. 2015 Nov 12;11(1):31. doi: 10.1186/s13223-015-0103-7. PMID: 26622119; PMCID: PMC4643537.
Q.
Skin Won’t Heal? The Truth About Clobetasol & Medically Approved Next Steps
A.
Clobetasol is one of the strongest prescription topical steroids; if your skin still is not healing there are several factors to consider, including a wrong diagnosis like fungal or bacterial infection, ongoing triggers, steroid overuse or withdrawal, barrier damage, or use on sensitive areas. Medically approved next steps include rechecking the diagnosis with tests, switching to targeted treatments, repairing the skin barrier, and tapering safely, and you should seek urgent care for spreading redness, fever, pus, severe pain, or nonhealing sores; when used correctly, improvement usually appears within 1 to 2 weeks. See complete guidance below, as important details there can change which next steps are right for you.
References:
* Rabe JH, Mautz TT, Gelfand JM. Topical Glucocorticoids: Mechanisms of Action and Clinical Implications. *Dermatol Ther*. 2019;9(1):15-22. PMID: 30675760.
* Wong JP, Bressler L. Corticosteroid-induced skin atrophy: Pathophysiology and therapeutic strategies. *J Dermatol Sci*. 2019;93(3):184-189. PMID: 30745041.
* Sasaki GH, Pang CY, Kim PS. Effects of Topical Corticosteroids on Wound Healing: A Review of the Literature. *Wounds*. 2014;26(2):40-47. PMID: 24597405.
* Hsu L, Armstrong AW. Topical steroid withdrawal: an update of the evidence and review of current treatments. *J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol*. 2020;34(11):2381-2388. PMID: 32940250.
* Coondoo A, Phiske M, Verma S, Lahiri K. Adverse effects of topical corticosteroids on skin: A review. *J Dermatolog Treat*. 2014;25(6):531-536. PMID: 25500989.
Q.
Skin on Fire? Why Capsaicin Stings and Medically Approved Next Steps for Relief
A.
There are several factors to consider. That skin-on-fire feeling usually comes from capsaicin activating heat-sensing TRPV1 receptors, creating a burning sensation without true thermal damage; for most people it is painful but not dangerous. For relief, use grease-cutting soap with lukewarm water, milk or cool compresses, and careful OTC options while avoiding oils, alcohol, heat, or tight bandages; seek care for eye exposure, severe swelling, blistering, spreading redness, breathing trouble, or pain lasting beyond 24 to 48 hours, and see below for critical details that could change your next steps, including dosing tips, contact dermatitis look-alikes, duration, and when prescription capsaicin needs provider guidance.
References:
* Kumar A, Dhanya M. Capsaicin: A Double-Edged Sword for Pain Relief. Curr Anesthesiol Rep. 2020 Dec;10(4):303-311. doi: 10.1007/s40140-020-00431-1. Epub 2020 Oct 31. PMID: 33139886; PMCID: PMC7601990.
* Benemei S, De Siena G, Fusi C, et al. TRPV1 receptor and its role in nociception and pain. J Dent Res. 2012 Jun;91(6):535-41. doi: 10.1177/0022034512443831. Epub 2012 Apr 2. PMID: 22469950.
* Babbar S, Aithal V, Sharma G, et al. Capsaicin: Mechanisms and Therapeutic Applications. Curr Neuropharmacol. 2023;21(1):154-173. doi: 10.2174/1570159X20666220803120155. PMID: 36556191; PMCID: PMC9959546.
* Mercadante S, Van den Beuken M, Gebhart C, et al. Local Adverse Events with High-Concentration Capsaicin Patch: Results from an Open-Label Observational Study and Comparison to Clinical Trial Data. Pain Ther. 2016 Jun;5(1):79-88. doi: 10.1007/s40122-016-0046-6. Epub 2016 Jan 29. PMID: 26607068; PMCID: PMC4901037.
* Ma J, Li S, Han M, et al. Topical Capsaicin for Neuropathic Pain: Efficacy and Safety. Pain Physician. 2019 Jan;22(1):E1-E14. PMID: 30691314.
Q.
Waxing Near Me? Why Your Skin Reacts & Medical Next Steps
A.
After waxing, mild redness, small bumps, and tenderness are common and fade in 24 to 48 hours, but blisters, severe or increasing pain, spreading redness, oozing or pus, crusting, fever, or hives with lip or throat swelling need prompt medical evaluation. Immediate care includes cool compresses, fragrance free moisturizer, avoiding heat and tight clothing, and short term antihistamines for itch. There are several factors to consider, from contact dermatitis, folliculitis, and skin burns to medication risks and prevention tips; see important details below for exactly when to self treat, when to see a clinician, and safer hair removal options.
References:
* Lymous MH, El-Hoshy E, El-Badrawy MK, et al. Hair removal methods: a review. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2018 Dec;17(6):957-967. doi: 10.1111/jocd.12781. Epub 2018 Aug 17. PMID: 30125439.
* Anitha B, Sreenivas V, Hazarika N. Complications of Hair Removal. Indian J Dermatol. 2020 Jan-Feb;65(1):1-7. doi: 10.4103/ijd.IJD_238_19. PMID: 32049432; PMCID: PMC7020088.
* Dover N, Savas J, Patel Z. Pseudofolliculitis barbae: A review of the literature and treatment options. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2019 Aug;81(2):491-499. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2018.10.053. Epub 2018 Nov 13. PMID: 31388050.
* Wang J, Jiang W, Zhao X, Liu J, Ma H, Sun X, Zhang Z, Zhang W. Recurrent furuncles and abscesses related to hair removal methods. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2018 Aug;17(4):612-616. doi: 10.1111/jocd.12592. Epub 2018 Jun 29. PMID: 29969460.
* Palm MD, Bass L, Bucay VW, et al. Skin care recommendations for patients undergoing esthetic procedures. J Drugs Dermatol. 2021 Jul 1;20(7):727-734. doi: 10.36849/JDD.2021.6033. PMID: 34292850.
Q.
Skin on Fire? Why Dermatitis Attacks & Medically Approved Relief
A.
A burning, itchy rash is often dermatitis, driven by inflammation when irritants, allergens, or an overactive immune response weaken the skin barrier and sensitize nerves. Relief usually comes from avoiding triggers, repairing the barrier with regular fragrance free moisturizers, and using doctor approved treatments like topical steroids or non steroid creams, with wet wraps or nighttime antihistamines for tougher flares; urgent care is needed for signs of infection, rapidly spreading rash, severe swelling, or breathing problems. There are several factors to consider that can change your next steps, so see the complete details below.
References:
* Huang J, Li K. Atopic Dermatitis: Pathophysiology and Update on Treatment Options. Front Immunol. 2020 Sep 4;11:584820. doi: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.584820. PMID: 32959664; PMCID: PMC7490013.
* Brunner PM, Guttman-Yassky E, Leung DYM. Atopic Dermatitis. N Engl J Med. 2020 Mar 19;382(12):1135-1146. doi: 10.1056/NEJMra1906096. PMID: 32187425.
* Kim J, Kim BE, Leung DYM. Treatment of atopic dermatitis: From the topical treatments to biologics. Allergy Asthma Proc. 2021 May 1;42(3):189-198. doi: 10.2500/aap.2021.42.210023. PMID: 33919655.
* Bains SN, Nash P, Fonacier L. Allergic contact dermatitis: Epidemiology, prevention, diagnosis, and management. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2020 Oct;125(4):348-359. doi: 10.1016/j.anai.2020.06.014. Epub 2020 Jun 25. PMID: 32299839.
* Kim J, Marwaha R, Singh M, Al-Adwan H. Atopic Dermatitis: A Review of Targeted Treatments. Cureus. 2022 Jul 23;14(7):e27161. doi: 10.7759/cureus.27161. PMID: 36014902; PMCID: PMC9397940.
Q.
Skin on Fire? Why Your Body is Reacting & Medically Approved Contact Dermatitis Relief
A.
Burning, stinging, or itchy skin after touching something is often contact dermatitis, triggered by irritants like soaps and sanitizers or allergens like nickel, fragrances, latex, hair dye, and poison ivy, and it typically appears where contact occurred and improves when the trigger is removed; see below for other look‑alike conditions and how to confirm. Medically approved relief includes stopping exposure, gentle washing, fragrance free thick moisturizers, short courses of 1 percent hydrocortisone, cool compresses, and antihistamines for itch, while moderate to severe or persistent cases may need prescription steroids or patch testing, and urgent red flags like face or throat swelling, breathing trouble, spreading infection, or no improvement in 1 to 2 weeks require prompt care, with full guidance on next steps below.
References:
* pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38141697/
* pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37661073/
* pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32134808/
* pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28457788/
* pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38141695/
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Usatine RP, Riojas M. Diagnosis and management of contact dermatitis. Am Fam Physician. 2010 Aug 1;82(3):249-55. PMID: 20672788.
https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2010/0801/p249.htmlZirwas MJ. Contact Dermatitis to Cosmetics. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol. 2019 Feb;56(1):119-128. doi: 10.1007/s12016-018-8717-9. PMID: 30421329.
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12016-018-8717-9Rashid RS, Shim TN. Contact dermatitis. BMJ. 2016 Jun 30;353:i3299. doi: 10.1136/bmj.i3299. PMID: 27364956.
https://www.bmj.com/content/353/bmj.i3299Li Y, Li L. Contact Dermatitis: Classifications and Management. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol. 2021 Dec;61(3):245-281. doi: 10.1007/s12016-021-08875-0. Epub 2021 Jul 15. PMID: 34264448.
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12016-021-08875-0Aquino M, Rosner G. Systemic Contact Dermatitis. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol. 2019 Feb;56(1):9-18. doi: 10.1007/s12016-018-8686-z. PMID: 29766368.
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12016-018-8686-z