Contact Dermatitis

Itchy rashes from contact dermatitis can make your every move uncomfortable. But with experienced physicians and sophisticated testing from Allegheny Health Network (AHN), you can finally get relief. We pinpoint the source of the problem and deliver treatments that keep it from coming back.

What is contact dermatitis?

This condition happens when substances you are allergic to (allergens) touch your skin. Your body has an allergic reaction causing swelling, rashes, and blisters. For example, if you are allergic to latex, a form of rubber, wearing latex gloves will likely cause these symptoms.

Other common allergens that cause contact dermatitis include:

• Perfumes and fragrances in soaps, shampoos, or other personal care products
• Preservatives and dyes in cosmetics
• Substances in laundry detergent and dry cleaning chemicals
• Ingredients in medications or lotions you rub into your skin
• Metals, such as nickel, that are in jewelry and zippers
• Chromates, which are substances found in leather and paint

Contact dermatitis treatments

Contact dermatitis treatments at AHN may include:

• Creams and medications: We may recommend over-the-counter allergy medications, such as antihistamines, to treat the rash. In some cases, we prescribe creams or antibiotics.
• Recommendations: We help you find products that do not contain allergens. If the problem is dyes or perfumes, we may recommend personal care products and cosmetics that do not contain those substances.

Contact us

Call (412) DOCTORS (412) 362-8677 to schedule a new patient appointment with an allergist, endocrinologist, or a primary care physician to get the diagnosis and treatment you need.