What are the treatment options for irritant contact dermatitis?

Irritant contact dermatitis is inflammation caused by direct damage from a substance or repeated exposure, rather than an allergy being required. Water, soaps, cleaning products, solvents, friction, and frequent hand washing can strip protective oils from the skin. Redness, dryness, cracking, stinging, and soreness may appear where contact occurs, often on the hands.

Identify and reduce contact with the suspected irritant, using suitable gloves or other protection when exposure cannot be avoided. Rinse residue gently, pat dry, and apply an emollient regularly, especially after washing. Choose fragrance-free products and lukewarm water. A clinician may prescribe a topical corticosteroid for significant inflammation and explain where and how long to use it. Do not apply products that sting to cracked skin without advice.

Arrange assessment if the rash is spreading, painful, deeply cracked, blistered, oozing, or interfering with work or sleep. Seek prompt care for warmth, pus, fever, or rapidly worsening swelling, which may indicate infection. Review is also worthwhile when symptoms continue despite avoiding a suspected irritant, since allergic contact dermatitis, eczema, or infection may need a different plan.

Which exposure is most likely damaging my skin? What barrier routine fits my work and hand-washing needs? How should I use an anti-inflammatory cream safely?