The development of an itchy, red rash after coming into contact with a substance or object may be an indication that you have contact dermatitis. Dr. Vivian Bucay specializes in helping individuals find the cause of contact dermatitis. She is can also help in the treatment of an existing case of contact dermatitis.
What is Contact Dermatitis?
Contact dermatitis is an itchy, sometimes scaly rash that appears red and inflamed. Unlike other skin conditions that are caused by bacteria or fungal infections, contact dermatitis is caused by direct contact with an irritant. The direct contact with the irritant triggers an allergic reaction, which comes in the form of the rash.
Contact dermatitis is not contagious, nor does it spread. The only way to get it is to come into contact with an irritating substance.
What Can Cause Contact Dermatitis?
Almost anything you can come in contact with on a day-to-day basis may cause contact dermatitis. The most common causes of this skin condition include jewelry, perfumes or cologne, scented soaps, cosmetics, or poison ivy/oak. Other causes of contact dermatitis include shampoos/conditioners, body washes, detergent, medications, bleach, airborne substances such as room sprays or scented candles.
The cause of contact dermatitis will vary depending upon the individual. What causes a rash to form in one person may not cause a rash to form for another person.
How is Contact Dermatitis Treated?
The first step in treating contact dermatitis is to determine what is causing the reaction. Dr. Vivian Bucay and her staff can help individuals determine what may be causing a current case of contact dermatitis.
When trying to determine what is causing this skin condition, Dr. Vivian Bucay will take a complete health history, conduct a physical exam, and may even ask questions about some of your day-to-day activities. This may help us narrow down what may be causing this reaction.
If the cause of contract dermatitis is not determined based off of your health history and physical exam, a patch test may be ordered. A patch test involves placing several irritants on the skin to see if your body reacts to them.
Once the cause of contact dermatitis is determined, Dr. Bucay can offer you several treatment options. Treatment options can include steroid creams or oral corticosteroid/antihistamines. If the skin is extremely damaged, a medication designed to repair the skin may be needed.