Understanding the Two Types of Contact Dermatitis

Where did that red, itchy patch on your hands or arms come from? Among the possibilities are dry skin, a heat rash, or an allergic reaction to something you touched. However, it’s likely contact dermatitis if it’s also blistering or peeling in some places. 

Contact dermatitis is a common skin condition that develops when your skin reacts to certain substances. It’s a form of eczema that can range in severity. While you may be familiar with it, you might not realize there are two types: irritant contact dermatitis (ICD) and allergic contact dermatitis (ACD). 

At Advanced Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology Center PA in San Antonio and Schertz, Texas, our lead allergist, Dr. Patricia Gomez Dinger, can spot the difference between the types, which is crucial for effectively managing your symptoms and preventing flare-ups.

Take a moment as she discusses the two types of contact dermatitis, what sets them apart, how they affect your skin, and most importantly, how to manage and prevent them.

What is contact dermatitis?

Contact dermatitis develops when your skin reacts to something upon direct contact. This reaction causes inflammation, resulting in symptoms like redness, itching, swelling, and in some cases, blistering or peeling. It isn’t contagious, but it can be painful and uncomfortable.

While the condition isn’t life-threatening, it can lead to complications if not properly managed. For example, excessive scratching can cause open sores, increasing the risk of infection. Identifying the type of contact dermatitis you have is the first step toward treatment and prevention.

The two types of contact dermatitis

There are two forms of this condition:

Irritant contact dermatitis (ICD)

The most common type, irritant contact dermatitis, occurs when your skin is irritated by direct contact with a harsh substance. Unlike an allergic reaction, ICD doesn’t involve your immune system. Instead, it’s a chemical or physical irritation of the skin.

Common irritants include:

• Soaps, detergents, and cleaning products
• Solvents or industrial chemicals
• Acids or alkalis
• Prolonged exposure to water or sweat
• Friction from tight clothing or gloves

ICD often develops quickly, sometimes within minutes or hours of exposure. Symptoms include redness, itching, and a burning sensation. Over time, repeated exposure can lead to dry, cracked, or thickened skin, especially on the hands.

Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD)

Unlike ICD, allergic contact dermatitis is an immune system reaction triggered by exposure to a specific allergen. Even a tiny amount of the allergen can cause a reaction, though symptoms may take 24-48 hours to appear.

Common allergens include:

• Nickel (found in jewelry, zippers, and watches)
• Fragrances in cosmetics or personal care products
• Preservatives in creams or lotions
• Latex or rubber
• Certain plants, such as poison ivy, poison oak, or sumac

ACD symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include redness, swelling, itching, and fluid-filled blisters. Chronic exposure to allergens can lead to lichenification, where the skin becomes thickened and leathery.

Managing and preventing contact dermatitis

The first step is identifying what’s causing your symptoms. Dr. Gomez Dinger recommends switching to hypoallergenic skincare products, avoiding jewelry that is made with nickel, or wearing gloves when handling cleaning agents.

Invest in high-quality, waterproof gloves if you can’t avoid frequent water exposure. Hydrate your skin regularly with thick, fragrance-free moisturizers to repair the barrier. For acute flare-ups, topical corticosteroids may help reduce inflammation.

If your symptoms persist, worsen, or interfere with your daily life, it’s time to consult a specialist. At Advanced Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology Center PA, we offer customized treatment plans, including prescription medications and lifestyle changes that are tailored to your needs.

Schedule an appointment with us online or call your nearest office today.