Definition
Contact dermatitis is an inflammatory skin change, usually triggered by an allergy. Synonyms are contact eczema, contact allergy and allergic contact dermatitis. Here the skin reacts to direct contact with a certain substance. This is a so-called type IV reaction of the delayed type, which means that contact may have taken place one to three days before the first symptoms appear. Contact dermatitis is the most common skin disease in Germany.
Contact dermatitis treatment
The most important step in the treatment of contact dermatitis is the removal of the allergen. As long as the contact with the allergen remains, no healing can occur. Furthermore, so-called cross-allergies must be excluded (some allergens are automatically associated with an allergy to other allergens.
For example, nickel allergy sufferers often also have an allergy to cobalt or palladium). In the acute stage, contact dermatitis is usually treated with cortisone. This can be applied in the form of ointments, gels or milk.
Alternatives are also ointments with salicylic acid, urea or antibiotics. Occasionally, antihistamines or phototherapy can also help. In chronic forms, creams and ointments containing fat are useful.
In general, even in phases without allergic reactions, the skin should be well cared for with sufficient moisture to avoid and prevent complications. In any case, care must be taken to avoid contact with the allergen in the future as well, since desensitization usually does not occur (the allergy always persists). With a contact allergy also no hyposensitization is possible, in order to proceed against the allergen.
The ointments usually contain cortisone, but ointments with salicylic acid, urea or antibiotics are also possible. They are applied locally to the skin inflammation. It is important that the compatibility is tested beforehand, since other allergens may also be contained in the ointments.
There are various household remedies that can especially alleviate itching. Cold compresses, for example, can help here. These cool the skin and so it can swell down and the itching is calmed.
Another household remedy is coconut oil. It moisturizes and helps to soothe dry and inflamed skin and can help to improve the repair of damaged skin. Chamomile can also be used here.
It has a calming and anti-inflammatory effect and can also help to alleviate the symptoms. In general, it can be said that there are various home remedies that can be used for contact dermatitis. However, they do not cure the disease, but only relieve the symptoms.
However, this can be a great relief for those affected. An additional application of a cortisone ointment is nevertheless useful, especially if the contact dermatitis does not heal itself. The household remedies are a good additional therapy, however.
