Contact dermatitis is a common skin disorder that can have a significant impact on your well-being. The itching and pain can be overwhelming and stressful and lead to secondary infections. Contact dermatitis treatment is available at Medical Dermatology Specialists in Lawrenceville for Gwinnett County residents.
What is Contact Dermatitis?
Contact dermatitis occurs when chemicals create a skin reaction. There are three types of contact dermatitis: allergic, irritant and photo contact. You can develop an allergic reaction when wearing jewelry, latex gloves or perfumes. Skin can also become irritated by toxic substances such as detergents, cleaners or frequent use of soap and water. Using certain skin care products exposed to the sun can also create a reaction.
Symptoms of Contact Dermatitis
The symptoms of contact dermatitis can include flaky skin, hives, redness, blisters, swelling, itching or burning. If you are diagnosed with irritant contact dermatitis, you may experience tight skin, ulcerations and open sores. To diagnose contact dermatitis, a dermatologist may use patch testing. With this safe and effective method, a small amount of diluted allergens are applied to a person’s back for a period of a couple days. If red patches appear, it signifies an allergic reaction to determine the offending triggers to avoid.
When to Seek Contact Dermatitis Treatment
You may be able to soothe your skin at home with cold compresses, over-the-counter anti-itch creams or anti-allergy medications. While most cases of contact dermatitis go away with at-home treatment, there are certain circumstances where you may want to see a dermatologist. Seek treatment if your uncomfortable rash interferes with sleep or daily activities. If rashes spread elsewhere on the body or bumps fail to heal after a few weeks, schedule an appointment with a dermatologist. Untreated contact dermatitis can lead to infections, scarring and a permanent change in skin color or texture.
Find Relief with Lawrenceville Contact Dermatitis Treatment
If you are suffering from contact dermatitis, medical dermatology services can help you achieve lasting relief. With Medical Dermatology Specialists in Gwinnett County, you can receive a customized treatment plan to effectively treat your contact dermatitis. Contact us to schedule an appointment at the Lawrenceville clinic today.