How to Identify and Treat Contact Dermatitis Fast

That red, itchy rash on your hands, face, or arms may seem to come out of nowhere. But if it appears after touching certain substances or products, you might be dealing with contact dermatitis, a common but uncomfortable skin reaction.

At Advanced Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology Center PA in San Antonio and Schertz, Texas, Dr. Patricia Gomez Dinger and her expert team diagnose and treat contact dermatitis to help you find fast relief and prevent future flare-ups. Here’s how to identify this condition and what you can do right away.

What is contact dermatitis?

Contact dermatitis occurs when your skin reacts to a substance it’s touched. The reaction usually develops within 48–96 hours and can cause:

• Red, itchy, or inflamed skin
• Blisters or hives
• Burning or tenderness
• Oozing, crusting, or dry, scaly patches

The rash isn’t contagious, but it can be painful or disrupt daily life, especially if scratching leads to open sores and infection.

Common triggers

A wide range of substances can cause contact dermatitis, including:

• Soaps, detergents, bleaches, or solvents
• Rubber gloves or certain clothing materials
• Hair products, perfumes, or cosmetic products
• Metals like nickel in jewelry or zippers
• Fertilizers, pesticides, or airborne irritants
• Plants like poison ivy, oak, or sumac
• Baby wipes, diapers, or dyes (in children)

Even products you’ve used for years can suddenly trigger a reaction.

How it’s diagnosed

To pinpoint the cause, Dr. Gomez Dinger reviews your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle, then performs a physical exam. Patch testing may be used — placing small amounts of common allergens on your skin for 48 hours — to identify specific triggers.

Fast relief and treatment options

If you suspect contact dermatitis:

1. Wash the affected area with mild soap and cool water as soon as possible.
2. Avoid scratching to reduce infection risk.
3. Apply a fragrance-free moisturizer or cool compress to soothe irritation.

For persistent or severe symptoms, the team may recommend:

• Prescription creams or ointments to reduce inflammation
• Oral medications for itching or swelling
• Guidance on lifestyle changes and avoiding triggers

Preventing flare-ups

Once you know your triggers, take steps to protect your skin:

• Switch to hypoallergenic or fragrance-free products.
• Wear gloves or protective clothing when using cleaning agents or chemicals.
• Replace irritating jewelry or personal care items with safer alternatives.

Don’t wait for rashes to worsen. Schedule an evaluation with Advanced Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology Center PA by phone or request an appointment online today to get expert care and lasting relief from contact dermatitis.