What are the first signs of contact dermatitis?

Irritant contact dermatitis can follow repeated exposure to soap, cleaning products, sweat, friction, or chemicals. Allergic contact dermatitis occurs when the immune system reacts to a substance such as a fragrance, metal, adhesive, cosmetic, or plant. The rash often has a recognisable pattern where contact occurred, such as the hands, face, eyelids, neck, or feet. Skin may become scaly, cracked, swollen, or develop small blisters. Symptoms can appear quickly or after a delay.

Stop using a suspected new product and rinse exposed skin gently with lukewarm water. Pat dry, avoid scratching, and use a bland moisturiser or emollient to support the skin barrier. Keep a note of products, gloves, jewellery, footwear, and activities that preceded the rash. A clinician may suggest topical corticosteroids for short-term inflammation, while ongoing or recurrent symptoms may need more detailed assessment.

Arrange medical advice if the rash is spreading, persistent, recurrent, painful, or interfering with sleep or work. Seek urgent help for swelling of the lips, tongue, or face, trouble breathing, faintness, or a widespread blistering rash. Prompt assessment is also needed if cracked skin becomes increasingly warm, swollen, painful, or draining, as infection may have developed.

Ask which exposure is most suspicious, whether you need patch testing, how long to use treatment, and which products are safest while the skin heals.