Contact Dermatitis Treatment
at Mosaic Dermatology in West Fargo
Contact dermatitis is a common skin condition that occurs when the skin becomes red, itchy, or inflamed after direct contact with allergens or irritants. At Mosaic Dermatology, we specialize in diagnosing the cause of contact dermatitis and providing effective treatment plans to relieve discomfort and prevent future reactions.
What Is Contact Dermatitis?
Contact dermatitis is an inflammatory skin reaction that occurs when the skin comes into contact with an irritating substance or an allergen. It can cause itching and discomfort but is not contagious. This condition can be acute or chronic, depending on the severity of exposure and sensitivity.
Causes of Contact Dermatitis
There are two primary types of contact dermatitis:
- Irritant Contact Dermatitis: Caused by direct damage to the skin from irritants such as soaps, detergents, solvents, and cleaning products.
- Allergic Contact Dermatitis: An immune system reaction triggered by allergens such as nickel, fragrances, preservatives, or certain plants (e.g., poison ivy).
Common irritants and allergens include:
- Soaps and detergents
- Household cleaning chemicals
- Perfumes and skincare products
- Metals (nickel, cobalt, and gold)
- Latex and rubber products
- Poison ivy, poison oak, and sumac
Symptoms of Contact Dermatitis
Symptoms of contact dermatitis can vary based on the trigger and sensitivity but may include:
- Redness and inflammation of the skin
- Itching or burning sensations
- Dry, scaly, or cracked skin
- Blisters or swelling in severe cases
- Pain or tenderness in affected areas
Contact Dermatitis Treatment Options
At Mosaic Dermatology, we provide personalized treatment plans based on the severity and cause of contact dermatitis.
At-Home Remedies & Lifestyle Changes
- Avoid known triggers to prevent flare-ups.
- Apply cool compresses to reduce itching and inflammation.
- Use fragrance-free moisturizers to maintain skin hydration.
- Wash skin immediately after exposure to potential irritants.
Topical Treatments
- Corticosteroid creams or ointments to reduce inflammation and itching.
- Barrier creams to protect the skin from irritants.
- Antihistamine creams to relieve itching and allergic reactions.
Oral Medications
- Antihistamines to help with itching and allergic reactions.
- Oral corticosteroids in severe cases to reduce inflammation and swelling.
- Immunosuppressants for chronic or resistant cases.
Preventing Contact Dermatitis
While contact dermatitis cannot always be avoided, you can take steps to minimize your risk:
- Identify and avoid irritants/allergens that trigger your symptoms.
- Wear protective gloves when using cleaning products or chemicals.
- Choose hypoallergenic skincare and fragrance-free products.
- Moisturize regularly to maintain a strong skin barrier.
When to See a Dermatologist
If over-the-counter treatments do not provide relief or if symptoms persist, worsen, or interfere with daily life, it’s important to seek professional care. At Mosaic Dermatology, we offer patch testing to identify specific allergens and develop a customized treatment plan tailored to your skin needs.
Expert Skin Dermatitis Care in West Fargo
At Mosaic Dermatology, we are committed to helping patients manage and prevent contact dermatitis with expert care. Schedule an appointment today to find relief and restore your skin’s health.