A rash appears a few days after exposure to an allergen, such as a fragrance, preservative, or metal (such as nickel). The rash is an allergic reaction where your body recognizes a specific trigger and the reaction can get stronger with each following exposure.

You develop a burning, painful rash soon after coming into contact with a cleaning agent, soap or other irritant such as sweat or even water in wet/dry cycles. In general, ICD occurs more common than ACD.

More than 15,000 allergens can cause allergic contact dermatitis, including fragrances, preservatives and metals.

Regular exposure to irritants on the job or from hobbies can cause a rash. Cosmetologists, construction workers, food service workers, gardeners, health care providers and painters are among those at higher risk.

Skin conditions like eczema/atopic dermatitis can weaken your skin’s protective barrier, increasing your sensitivity to irritants and allergens.

Your provider will ask about your symptoms, including how long you’ve had the rash and what substances you’re exposed to at home and work.

During a skin exam, your physician will closely look at your skin rash to make an assessment, as well as check for signs of infection.

A patch test can help identify the cause of allergic contact dermatitis. This test takes place at our dedicated Patch Test Clinic. You will have a consultation to determine if patch testing may help with diagnosis, what patches would need to be applied, and to review the process of patch testing. During patch test placement, patches will be applied to the skin for 48 hours. When they’re removed, specialists will take photos. After another 48 hours, there will be an assessment and discussion of your results. Specific details for your specific patch test will be discussed at your consultation.

Your provider may remove a small sample of tissue from the rash for pathologic assessment under the microscope. This type of biopsy usually requires stiches. Experts at our Dermatopathology Service examine the tissue to diagnose or rule out skin conditions. Our lab experts focus exclusively on skin conditions, providing a high level of diagnostic expertise not widely available elsewhere.

Over-the-counter or prescription antihistamines can be used to reduce itching.

Corticosteroid medications applied to skin (topical), taken by mouth (oral pills) or injected into skin can reduce inflammation and itching.

Oral immunosuppressant medications, such as methotrexate or injectable medications like biologics for atopic dermatitis, can ease severe or chronic allergic contact dermatitis. These medicines calm the immune response, easing inflammation.

Exposure to certain types of ultraviolet (UV) light can calm an immune reaction and ease inflammation. Phototherapy takes place at your physician’s office.

Your provider may recommend using gentle cleansers and applying emollient or moisturizing products to heal and protect your skin. Colloidal oatmeal baths, calamine lotion and cool compresses can help ease itching, swelling and discomfort.

Avoid known allergens and irritants as much as possible.

Use hypoallergenic skin care products free of common allergens or only as few as possible to keep your skin clean and well hydrated.

If you have been exposed to a known allergen or irritant, wash your skin with water and a gentle soap to try to remove particles from the skin.

Wear protective clothing, such as latex-free gloves, when working with a known irritant.