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Allergic Contact Dermatitis

How to treat contact dermatitis?
(11 Apr 2007)

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Contact dermatitis is a common skin infection that occurs in both males and females at any given age. The skin inflammation that arises out of the skin condition is particularly unpleasant and is known to affect the external layers of the skin. The skin disease is characterized by redness of the skin, followed by painful blisters, skin irritation that results in swelling of the skin.

Contact Dermatitis is usually the result of skin allergies caused due to external factors such as soaps, perfumes etc. Certain ingredients found in these items cause an allergic reaction in the skin. Some people are also affected by nickel plated jewelry while some frequently experience the skin condition owing to their constant contact with allergens such as chemicals, rubber and concrete and certain plants.

While there are numerous remedies to control the skin condition, one the simplest form of getting rid of contact dermatitis is to stay away from these allergens that cause skin inflammation.

Maintain a cool and moist atmosphere at home or at the workplace as hot and humid weather tends to aggravate the skin disease and exacerbate the condition. Avoid scratching the affected area as it can lead to more serious complications. It is advisable to cut the fingernails short and wear rubber gloves - with inner cotton lining - to prevent scratching of the scabs.

A mild soap or cleanser without fragrance must be used for cleansing the affected skin area. A mild application of hypoallergenic fragrance-free lotion on the affected parts can help to relieve the itching associated with the skin condition. The lotion can also help in preventing the skin from becoming dry and scaly. Use a mild and preservative free shampoo for dermatitis on the scalp.

Witch Hazel is a highly popular folk remedy for contact dermatitis, and an emollient prepared from witch hazel - without the presence of alcohol in it - is believed to beneficial in relieving itching and inflammation. Another popular remedy for relieving itching and soreness due to contact dermatitis is the application of fresh aloe vera juice. A blend of aloes and olive oil is helpful in preventing dry scaly scabs and in softening the skin. A common OTC product that is usually recommended by dermatologists and skin experts is lacto calamine lotion which helps in reducing the swelling and itchiness of the skin.

A fresh fruit and vegetable diet can also in healing the skin faster. Some medical experts believe that over consumption of red meats and fried foods can result in excessive sweating thus causing further aggravation to the skin condition. Consume fruits such as apples, pineapples, oranges and grapefruits, papaya and lightly cooked vegetables such cauliflower, cabbage, spinach and carrot as these are abundantly rich in minerals and vitamins.

answered by M W on 22 Apr 2009, 12:37:27

Contact dermatitis is a result of allergy to chemicals, plants, metals, perfumes, cosmetics and so on resulting in itching, redness and inflammation.
- Biotin pills prove benficial.
- Aloe vera gel on the area is helpful.
- Topical application of vitamin E helps.

Refer a similarly answered question on remedies for jewellery allergy at,
http://www.home-remedies-for-you.com/askquestion/742/home-remedies-for-rough-skin-on-ears-due-to-jewell.html

answered by r k on 11 Apr 2007, 7:03:46

Allergic Contact Dermatitis

How to treat contact dermatitis? (11 Apr 2007)

How to treat contact dermatitis?
(11 Apr 2007)