Contact Dermatitis, Allergic and Irritant

Contact dermatitis is a type of skin inflammation that occurs when the skin comes into direct contact with a substance that it is sensitive or allergic to. The resulting rash is typically red, itchy, and blistering. Contact dermatitis can be either irritant or allergic in nature. Irritant contact dermatitis is caused by repeated exposure to a substance that damages the skin, while allergic contact dermatitis is caused by an immune system reaction to a specific substance. Common causes of contact dermatitis include soaps, detergents, cleansing wipes, nickel, cosmetics, and plants such as poison ivy. The best way to treat contact dermatitis is to identify and avoid the substance that is causing the reaction. In some cases, topical or oral medications may be prescribed by a dermatologist to relieve symptoms and treat the underlying condition.

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