This week, we explore this condition, as well as provide some natural contact dermatitis treatments.
Please keep in mind that although these tips and information have worked for several sufferers, we are in no way medical professionals. If you’re experiencing severe symptoms or have a topical infection, it is always best to seek medical advice immediately.
What is Contact Dermatitis?
Contact dermatitis is caused by a reaction to irritants such as pets, animal dander, dust mites or pollen. It can also be caused by an allergy to nickel, fragrances, harmful chemicals and more.
Typically with contact dermatitis, skin becomes irritated and inflamed around the hands, arms, legs and face. Unlike atopic dermatitis, which is more difficult to treat, contact dermatitis usually requires limiting exposure to the irritant.
Contact dermatitis can also be caused by a reaction to synthetic materials like polyester and latex which are found in clothing. This condition goes by another name, known as textile dermatitis.
Contact Dermatitis Symptoms
Like atopic dermatitis (eczema), symptoms are very similar:
- Itchy skin
- Dry, cracked skin
- Stinging
- Burning
- Rash
- Oozing blisters
- Crusty skin
Normally, these flare-ups will subside when the irritant or allergy is removed from one's environment. However, sometimes this is not always as simple, as removing pollen or a pet from your environment can be more complicated.
For more information on pet allergies and eczema, check out this post from It's an Itchy Little World. Alternatively, learn how to control seasonal allergies with this blog post.
Contact Dermatitis Treatments
As previously mentioned, typically the irritant or allergy can be removed or reduced from one's environment. If this is not possible, there are a variety of treatments that can help relieve irritated and inflamed skin.
Eczema Clothing
Because this type of dermatitis is caused by contact with an irritant, eczema clothing can act as a barrier to protect skin. Remedywear™, clothing for eczema produces a variety of garments like gloves, mitts, shirts and pants that can help prevent further flare ups.
These kids and adult gloves are a wonderful treatment for protecting skin and preventing further scratching. Not only do they reduce irritation but they're made with both TENCEL and anti-inflammatory zinc to soothe and nourish skin.
Natural Eczema Treatments
If you are experiencing a flare-up from contact dermatitis, it's also important to keep skin well moisturized in order to further reduce irritation and possible infection.
This Organic Manuka Skin Soothing Cream is the perfect nourishing cream with six all natural ingredients. It also contains manuka honey and manuka oil which both provide anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties.
Do you suffer from contact dermatitis? We'd love to hear from you on our Facebook page!
