In order to bring you the best possible user experience, this site uses Javascript. If you are seeing this message, it is likely that the Javascript option in your browser is disabled. For optimal viewing of this site, please ensure that Javascript is enabled for your browser.
 EMAIL TO FRIEND     |      PRINTER FRIENDLY     |    
          advertisement

Top 10 Causes of Contact Dermatitis

SATURDAY, Aug. 5 (HealthDay News) -- Notice an itchy, red rash after wearing that new silver bracelet? Has that new summer perfume caused itchy skin around your wrists and neck? The reason could be as simple as contact dermatitis.

Contact dermatitis is the name given to the various rashes that result when the skin comes in contact with something it is allergic to. Symptoms of contact dermatitis include skin redness, itching that often becomes painful, skin thickening, and scaling.

Contact dermatitis is easily remedied with antihistamines, cortisone-type creams and dry-skin lotions. If symptoms persist, a physician may need to issue a prescription.

Following are the top 10 causes of contact dermatitis recently identified by Mayo Clinic physicians:

  • Nickel, commonly found on jewelry clasps or buttons.
  • Gold, usually worn as jewelry.
  • Balsam of Peru, a fragrance used in skin care products and perfume.
  • Thimerosal, a preservative used in vaccines.
  • Neomycin sulfate, a topical antibiotic.
  • Fragrance mix, which is comprised of eight of the most common flavorings found in various products.
  • Formaldehyde, a preservative that can be found in paper products, paints, building materials, medications, household cleaners and fabric finishes.
  • Cobalt chloride, a metal found in medical products, hair dye, antiperspirants, and in snaps, buttons and tools.
  • Bacitracin, a topical antibiotic.
  • Quaternium-15, a preservative found in skin care products and in industrial products such as paints, polishes and waxes.

For more information on contact dermatitis, visit the National Institutes of Health.


SOURCES: Mayo Clinic, news release, July 2006
advertisement

Cholesterol News You Need

Control High Cholesterol

What's so different about the way it affects women's hearts?

Start fighting back now

Can Surgery Cure Obesity?

Can Surgery Cure Obesity?

Learn the benefits—and risks—of weight-loss surgery.

Experts answer your questions
advertisement

YourTotalHealth  Web powered by YAHOO!   

Home  |  Health Centers  |  Health A-Z  |  Staying Healthy  |  Diet & Fitness  |  Woman & Family  |  Pregnancy  |  Community  |  

also on iVillage: Pregnancy & Parenting  |  Beauty & Style  |  Home & Garden  |  Food  |  Weddings  |  Love  |  Entertainment

Terms of Service  |  Privacy Policy  |  Site Map  |  Newsletters  |  Feedback

Copyright (c) 2000-2008 iVillage Inc. All rights reserved. The information provided on this site is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease without consulting with a qualified healthcare provider. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition.