Allergic contact dermatitis is a rash triggered even by brief contact with the allergen, and may take up to 2 weeks after exposure to develop. Examples include poison ivy and poison sumac, fragrances, plants, and materials that you may be allergic to. [2] X Research source Irritant contact dermatitis is dry, damaged skin caused by repeated rough exposure or exposure to harsh chemicals. It’s commonly caused by washing your hands too frequently, but harsh soaps, detergents, or industrial chemicals can also be at fault.

If you don’t know the exact cause of your dermatitis, avoid all harsh and scented products and metallic jewelry as much as possible or switch to gentler and fragrance-free alternatives.

Protective gloves or clothing Barrier creams Putting clear coats of nail polish on metal jewelry

Some antihistamines can make you drowsy.

Switch to a different moisturizer if you find it irritates your skin further. Be on the lookout for more symptoms, especially if you don’t know the cause of your contact dermatitis. Try using calamine lotion to help soothe your skin. [8] X Research source

If you don’t have time for a cool bath, apply a cool, wet compress to your skin for 15-30 minutes instead.

Apply the cream according the directions on the packaging. Don’t use a corticosteroid on an infant under 2 years of age. Pregnant women should apply with caution and use low-strength creams. Apply the ointment once a day, and do not continue for more than two weeks without doctor approval.

A dermatologist can also prescribe stronger corticosteroids to calm inflammation or antibiotics to treat skin infections that may have developed. See your doctor if your dermatitis is affecting your sleeping, breathing, or work performance. If you experience a great deal of pain or you begin to develop infections or blisters on the affected area, contact your doctor.

Many patients develop symptoms before age 5, and in many cases symptoms lessen or disappear in adulthood. If you or anyone in your genetic family has had similar rashes, asthma, or hay fever, then your chances of getting eczema are higher.

Perfumes, dyes, and cosmetics Dust, sand, and dust mites Chlorine, mineral oil, solvents, and other strong chemicals Animal fur or dander Cigarette smoke Pollen Food you or your doctor suspect you may be allergic to Excessive bathing without moisturizing Low humidity Emotional stress Your skin getting overheated[14] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source

Add soothing products to your bath such as uncooked oatmeal, colloidal oatmeal, or baking soda to help relieve your skin. Gently pat dry with a towel after bathing. Don’t rub hard or vigorously or you’ll dry out your skin.

Use a low water content lotion, or a zero water content option such as petroleum jelly, which protect against water evaporation on your skin and have a lower chance of triggering a flare up.

Cut your fingernails short to minimize damage from scratching. Wear gloves at night if you scratch yourself while sleeping.

Some ways you can help manage your stress include regular exercise, talk therapy, meditation, or deep breathing exercises.

A prescription-strength orticosteroid cream can be used for severe cases to reduce inflammation and scaling. Oral antibiotics can help treat skin infections as well as reduce the skin bacteria that can worsen atopic dermatitis. UV Phototherapy can help treat atopic dermatitis. A combination of moisturizers and corticosteroids can be applied to the skin using wrapped bandages.

Depending on the type of shampoo you use, you can shampoo between 2-7 times per week. Leave the shampoo on your hair for the recommended amount of time on the bottle. Alternate shampoos to find the most effective one for you.

Prescription-strength corticosteroids Antifungal shampoos, creams, and oral medications Antibacterial gels and creams Light therapy Immune system suppressants

Men between the ages of 55-65 and women between the ages of 15-25 are the most commonly affected groups.

A cold, dry climate Insect bites and abrasions Metals, such as nickel Prescription medications such as interferon and isotretinoin Chemicals such as formaldehyde or chlorine Bacterial infection Poor circulation, especially in the legs

You can add 1/2 cup (40 g) of uncooked oatmeal or baking soda to the bath to help soothe your inflamed skin.

A room humidifier can also help keep your skin moist.

UV light therapy Topical and oral corticosteroids Wet dressings

Stasis dermatitis is most commonly found in patients with congestive heart failure, varicose veins, or other circulation problems.

Compression stockings Varicose vein surgery Avoiding long periods of standing or sitting Keeping your legs elevated while sleeping and every few hours while awake

Oral antibiotics[36] X Research source Topical steroids[37] X Research source

Topical hydrocortisone creams can provide a similar soothing effect.

Remember to pat yourself dry with a towel, don’t rub or abrade your skin further.

Psychotherapy Stress-relief techniques or anti-anxiety treatments Corticosteroids Light therapy Botulinum (Botox) therapies Anti-inflammatories