What are the symptoms of contact dermatitis?

The rash can be dry, scaly, cracked, swollen, or blistered. It may sting, burn, or itch intensely, and its edges may match the shape of a watch strap, cosmetic, glove, plant, adhesive, or cleaning product. Symptoms can stay at the contact site or extend nearby. Repeated exposure may make the skin thicker and more sensitive. A clinician separates contact dermatitis from infections and other causes by considering timing, location, exposures, and the skin’s appearance.

Rinse the area gently if a suspected product remains on the skin, then avoid the suspected trigger and keep a record of new soaps, fragrances, metals, medicines, or workplace materials. Use a bland moisturiser and avoid scratching. A clinician may prescribe topical corticosteroids for suitable areas and durations; do not apply a steroid cream to the face, folds, or broken skin without specific advice.

Seek urgent help for facial or mouth swelling, trouble breathing, faintness, or a rapidly spreading reaction. Arrange medical review when blisters are extensive, the skin is very painful or hot, drainage or fever develops, the rash involves the eyes or genitals, or symptoms continue after avoiding the suspected trigger.

Ask which exposure is most suspicious, whether patch testing could help identify an allergen, and where any prescribed corticosteroid may be used. Mention every product that touched the area and when the rash began.