If you’ve ever experienced irritated and inflamed skin you have probably experienced a condition called contact dermatitis. There are two main causes for contact dermatitis; allergic reaction or contact with an irritant chemical. We know these conditions are uncomfortable and often times unsightly so we’re here to help.

 Let’s start by explaining the two types of contact dermatitis:

Allergic Contact Dermatitis– We are exposed to more chemicals then we could ever imagine each day. From the soap and shampoo we clean ourselves with to the dyes and materials in the clothes we wear. Allergic contact dermatitis is caused when your skin is exposed to a chemical that you’ve previously become sensitized to. The skin exposed to the chemical will appear reddish in color, feel irritated and appear scaly. If you feel this allergic reaction is happening to you, a doctor can easily test you with a patch test. With over 3,000 environmental allergens known to cause this reaction, you’re bound to experience contact dermatitis at some point in your life. 

Irritant Contact Dermatitis– The basics of Irritant contact dermatitis is chemical exposure to the skin that causes damage to the skin. It can be acute exposure such as strong solvents or non-corrosive acids to cumulative exposure meaning repeated exposure to irritating chemicals to 3^rd degree chemical burns. The severity of the irritation is based on the individual’s skin. Those in contact with chemicals frequently, such as cleaning professionals often experience red, scaly, blotchy and irritated skin known as Irritant contact dermatitis. 

If you ever experience either one of these contact dermatitis conditions please call us at 843-881-4440 for a consultation. Dr. Germain has many years of experience diagnosing and treating a wide variety of skin allergies and rashes. We will work together to help you find skin relief and make you as comfortable as possible in your skin! 

Dr. Germain also may introduce you to her Germain Rx Body Regimen, Smooth As Silk or other products to help you. To purchase Germain Rx products, click here. 

Marguerite Germain