Allergic / Irritant Eczema (Contact Dermatitis)

Contact dermatitis is a type of eczema that develops in response to substances the skin comes into contact with. Although seen most often on the hands, it can affect any part of the body where contact occurs. Redness, itching, dryness, scaling, cracking and sometimes small fluid-filled blisters are its most common signs. Contact dermatitis is divided mainly into two groups: allergic contact dermatitis (allergic eczema) and irritant contact dermatitis (irritation eczema).

Allergic contact dermatitis (allergic eczema) arises from an allergic reaction the immune system develops over time against a particular substance. Even if a person has used the same product or substance without problems for many years, an allergy to it can develop over time. Among the most common culprits are nickel and other metals, fragrances, cosmetic products, hair dyes, preservatives, rubber products, adhesives and some topical medications.

Irritant contact dermatitis (irritation eczema), on the other hand, is not an allergic condition. It develops when the skin barrier is damaged by factors such as detergents, soaps, disinfectants, solvents, cleaning materials, frequent hand washing or prolonged contact with water. It is very common, particularly in healthcare workers, hairdressers, cleaning staff, food-industry workers and anyone who has to wash their hands frequently.

Allergic and irritant eczemas can look very similar; however, their treatment and prevention approaches differ. A detailed dermatological assessment is therefore very important. In patients where it is needed, a patch test can identify the substances causing the allergy and individual prevention advice can be planned.

The basis of treatment is avoiding the factors that cause or aggravate the condition. In addition, the condition can be brought largely under control with moisturisers that strengthen the skin barrier, appropriate topical treatments and, where necessary, systemic medications.