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The most effective treatment for contact dermatitis is the avoidance of known allergens (substances that trigger an exaggerated immune system response) or irritating substances. To do this effectively, an individual must first understand what is causing the skin reaction. Though contact dermatitis is often not serious, a physician can help determine its underlying cause.

To help prevent work-related allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) and irritant contact dermatitis (ICD), the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) is conducting research to develop specific types of protective clothing, equipment and barrier creams (provide a protective layer from irritants) that can be used on the job. Protective gloves in the workplace as well at home should be worn if contact with known allergens is likely or unavoidable. However, latex gloves are a common cause of contact dermatitis and should be avoided. Vinyl gloves are a better choice. Cotton gloves worn over topical medications and moisturizers are also very helpful.

Work-related situations involving an allergy to a chemical for which no substitute can be found may be better tolerated by using barrier creams and wearing protective clothing. However, airborne allergens may be difficult to avoid.

Other preventative measures involve the use of emollients (substances that soothe the skin) that can be applied three or four times a day to keep the skin moist and prevent itching. Emollients should be applied to slightly wet skin in order to seal in the moisture. In the case of diaper rash, the baby’s diaper should be frequently changed and a protective coat of ointment applied.

There are several types of effective, self-care measures that can be used for the treatment of contact dermatitis symptoms. However, a person with contact dermatitis symptoms should first obtain the advice of a physician before using any self-care treatments. Treatments include:

• Applying calamine lotion to relieve itching.
  
  
• Taking cool oatmeal baths to soothe the skin. It should be noted, however, that oatmeal can be an allergen and actually make the rash worse.
  
  
• Applying cold compresses directly to the blisters.
  
  
• Applying hydrocortisone creams (nonprescription) directly to the skin.
  
  
• Applying moisturizers to help restore the normal texture of the skin. Moisturizers containing nut oils should be avoided because they can exacerbate the reaction.
  
  
• Washing with cool, soapy water immediately after exposure to neutralize and remove the offending substance.

Patients should also wash clothing or any other object that may have come into contact with the offending substance. This will help prevent reexposure. In addition, the affected area should be protected from sunlight until the dermatitis has subsided.

Prescription antihistamines may be used if over-the-counter antihistamines do not relieve the itching. Topical prescription corticosteroid medications may be used to treat an inflammation in a confined area.

Topical corticosteroid medications may lessen the inflammation but should be carefully used, as topical steroids can cause thin skin or rosacea. If the rash covers a large portion of the skin or is severe, a physician may prescribe corticosteroid pills or injections. These are usually tapered gradually over a two-week period to prevent the recurrence of the rash.

Patients with chronic (recurrent) ACD that is not controllable with medications or avoidance may be treated with PUVA phototherapy. Severe skin conditions may respond well to this treatment. However, avoidance of the allergen is the most important treatment.

If contact dermatitis occurs frequently and the cause can not be determined, a physician may recommend an allergy specialist to help identify the trigger. A rash can become chronic if the underlying condition is not effectively treated.

Antibiotics may also be required if a secondary bacterial infection develops at the site of the rash.