Contact Dermatitis- Allergic

• This is a condition that is caused by a material (the allergen).  

  • It is also called a contact allergy.

  • The allergen causes an itchy, inflamed blistered, and/or scaly rash on the skin.

  • The rash is usually where the allergen touched the skin.

  • The rash may also appear after the allergen was in a drink or food that your child had.

  • The rash may also appear after something was given by a needle into the muscle or vein.

  • The reaction may happen after the first exposure or after repeated exposures.

  • It can happen at all ages.

  • It may occur a few hours to a few days after exposure.

  • It usually resolves in two to three days, as long as the exposure is gone, but may last longer.

• This is not contagious.

• This cannot harm anyone who is not allergic to the material.

Severe allergic contact dermatitis with blistering due to an ointment.

Allergic contact dermatitis with redness and scaling from a fragrance in a skin care product.

Allergic contact dermatitis due to a hair care product.

• This is caused by an immune system reaction.

• Those with eczema/atopic dermatitis may be more likely to have this.

• Most often, it occurs due to direct skin contact, but can occur after eating or drinking something or after something was injected into the body.

• Some common examples of causes are:

  • Poison ivy or poison oak.

  • Metals like nickel, used for making jewelry and snaps on clothing.

  • Preservatives and fragrances found in lotions, creams, cosmetics, hair products, sunscreen, insect repellant and deodorant.  

  • Fragrances are one of the most common allergens for kids and that includes items with natural fragrances as well.

  • Neomycin which is an ingredient in some antibiotic ointments that are available over-the-counter.

  • Ingredients in topical numbing agents like lidocaine (which is available over-the-counter).

  • Some ingredients used for making leather goods.

  • Latex, which is used for balloons and protective gloves.

• Usually there is a red rash that develops.

• It is itchy.

• The rash is usually on the body where the exposure was, but can be more widespread.

• The rash may be dry or scaly.

• The rash may turn into blisters.

• The skin may be swollen.  

• Your child’s healthcare provider will ask you and your child (if age appropriate) questions.

• Your child’s healthcare provider will examine your child.

• Your child’s healthcare provider may refer you to a specialist like an allergist if needed.

• When possible, avoid anything that irritates your child’s skin.

• Keep the skin well hydrated and moisturized.

• Encourage your child to drink lots of water (if 6 months and older) and offer a variety of fruits and veggies to provide needed vitamins and minerals for the body and skin.

• Keep your child’s nails cut short to minimize the ability to scratch at any dry or irritated skin.

• If allergic to nickel, buy jewelry that is 18-Karat gold or higher or look for jewelry that states it is nickel free.

  • Other options include sterling silver, copper, titanium and platinum jewelry.

• Avoid products with any type of added fragrance when possible.

• Pets may be a cause, so make sure to mention this to your child’s healthcare provider.

• Keep your child’s skin covered when hiking or going through wooded areas where poison ivy/oak may be.

• Your child’s provider may advise giving an antihistamine like cetirizine or loratadine ahead if you know your child is going to be exposed to the allergen.

• Avoiding the allergen is the most important.

• You can wash the area gently with soap and water to remove any remaining allergen.

• You can apply cold packs to the area as tolerated to help with the itch and discomfort.

• You can apply over-the-counter anti-itch products like calamine lotion, hydrocortisone cream, and diphenhydramine cream.

• You can give your child an oral anti-histamine. It is best to start with cetirizine (commonly known as Zyrtec) or loratadine (commonly known as Claritin).

• Diphenhydramine (commonly known as Benadryl) can be used, but check with your child’s primary healthcare provider team first, as this oral medication can make your child tired and then create more worry about their symptoms.

• If your child has been prescribed a medication, be sure to use it as prescribed.  

• Your child’s primary care provider may refer your child to a specialist like an allergist.  

• Keep your child’s skin well hydrated and encourage lots of water (if over 6 months).

• Encourage a variety of fruits and vegetables so they get the proper nutrients.

• Keep your child’s nails cut short to minimize any scratching.

• Encourage your child not to itch.

• You think your child has allergic contact dermatitis.

• You are concerned about your child’s symptoms.

• Your child’s symptoms are not improving with treatment.

• You have any other questions or concerns.

• You would like to have your child seen.