Contact allergies or contact dermatitis is a skin condition that occurs due to exposure of the skin to chemicals or products. The most common contact allergens are nickel, fragrance, and chemicals in hair dye. Contact allergens can be due to occupational hazards experienced by metal workers, hairdressers, health care workers, cleaners, construction workers, and painters.

There are 7 types of Eczema, but these are some common symptoms for all types of eczema:

If you have an itchy rash and suspect a product, chemical, or work exposure that is causing it, an allergist can help diagnose the cause of the rash. An allergist will take a thorough history and will recommend patch testing if necessary. Patch testing is placing small amounts of products on the skin. The patches are left on the skin for 48 hours and then removed. If a patient has a contact allergy to any of these chemicals, the area under the patch will turn red and may become itchy. Based on these results, treatment and avoidance measures can be recommended. Often a list of products that are safe to use are provided to the patient. Our physicans are members of the American Contact Dermatitis Society. 

Contact dermatitis occurs with exposure to the chemical a patient is allergic to.