Contact Dermatitis
Contact Dermatitis
Understanding contact dermatitis and why it develops
Contact dermatitis occurs when your skin reacts to something that touches it. Sometimes the reaction is due to irritation from repeated exposure to a harsh substance. Other times, it reflects an immune response to a specific trigger. Although it can feel uncomfortable, frustrating, and sometimes painful, understanding the cause helps guide safer care and better control.
Two main types of contact dermatitis
There are two common forms. Irritant contact dermatitis happens when the skin barrier becomes damaged by repeated exposure to irritants such as soaps, detergents, wet work, chemicals, cleaning agents, or friction. Hands are commonly affected, especially in busy work or caregiving roles.
Allergic contact dermatitis occurs when your immune system becomes sensitive to a particular substance and reacts when you contact it again. Common triggers include fragrances, preservatives, nickel in jewellery, some adhesives, hair dyes, rubber compounds, and certain workplace products.
What contact dermatitis usually looks and feels like
Skin may become red, itchy, dry, flaky, cracked, swollen, or blistered. The rash usually appears where contact occurred, although in allergic reactions it can sometimes spread beyond the original site. Symptoms range from mild irritation to significant discomfort that interferes with sleep, work, or daily life. Occupational exposure is important — some people develop dermatitis because of their workplace tasks or frequent product handling.
Important safety note about infection
Because irritated skin is more fragile, infection can develop. Seek review if skin becomes weepy, crusted, hotter than surrounding skin, increasingly painful, rapidly worsening, or if fever occurs.
When to see your GP
See your GP if the rash persists, spreads, interferes with sleep or routine, keeps returning, or appears infected. Earlier review is important for children, older adults, people who are immunocompromised, or anyone whose rash appears soon after new medication or exposure.
How your GP supports assessment and care
Your GP considers when the rash started, your work and home exposures, new products, hobbies, health history, and what worsens or improves it. Examination helps distinguish irritant dermatitis, allergic reactions, and other skin conditions. Treatment is individualised, often focusing on protecting and repairing the skin barrier, reducing triggers, calming inflammation, relieving itch, and supporting better sleep and comfort. Dermatology referral or patch testing may be recommended when diagnosis is uncertain, severe, or ongoing.
A culturally safe note about skin appearance
Contact dermatitis does not always look bright red. On darker skin tones it may appear darker, greyer, or purplish rather than obviously inflamed. This is normal variation — and review is appropriate if you are unsure.
A reassuring reminder
Online images often do not show how dermatitis truly varies between people and skin tones. Avoid relying on internet pictures to diagnose yourself — professional review is safer and clearer.
A reassuring message
Contact dermatitis is common, treatable, and manageable. With thoughtful guidance and the right plan, most people achieve meaningful relief and better control without needing to struggle alone.
This article provides general health information only and does not replace medical advice. Please speak with your GP for personalised care.