Contact Dermatitis

Also known as: Contact dermatitis, Allergic contact dermatitis, Irritant contact dermatitis, Occupational dermatitis, Contact eczema

Contact dermatitis is an inflammatory skin reaction caused by something touching the skin. Irritant contact dermatitis, the most common form, results from repeated exposure to soaps, detergents, solvents or wet work; allergic contact dermatitis is an immune reaction to a specific substance such as nickel, fragrances, preservatives, rubber chemicals or plants [1][2]. The mainstays of management are identifying and avoiding the trigger, restoring the skin barrier with moisturisers, and topical corticosteroids for flares; patch testing identifies allergic triggers when the cause is unclear [1][2][3]. In Chinese medicine acute weeping, red, hot eruptions correspond to Wind, Damp and Heat invading the skin, while chronic dry, cracked, thickened dermatitis reflects Blood deficiency generating Wind and Dryness. Acupuncture and herbal medicine are adjuncts to trigger avoidance and standard dermatology care, and widespread or occupational cases benefit from GP or dermatologist involvement [1][2][3].