Contact Dermatitis

A red, itchy rash can be an allergic reaction known as contact dermatitis. When over-the-counter creams aren’t working to ease rash symptoms or if you have recurrent rashes, Mountaintop Dermatology can provide the care you deserve. Medical dermatologist Frank Samarin, MD, offers in-office testing to identify triggers of contact dermatitis. Dr. Samarin also proposes skin care recommendations you can use to prevent further rash complications. Call the Colorado Springs, Colorado, office today to schedule an appointment for contact dermatitis testing or book a consultation online.

What is contact dermatitis?

Contact dermatitis is a rash that develops after an allergen or irritant comes into contact with your skin.

The rash isn’t contagious but can be itchy and painful. There are a wide range of substances that can trigger contact dermatitis, including:

• Chemicals
• Soaps
• Rubber
• Pesticides

Allergic contact dermatitis causes a skin rash after exposure to an allergen, such as metal, dyes, pollen, and poison ivy.

Mountaintop Dermatology offers comprehensive care for contact dermatitis in children and adults.

Dr. Samarin provides diagnostic testing in the office to identify allergens and other rash-triggering substances. He also creates a treatment plan to ease existing rash symptoms and prevent new rashes from developing.

When should I seek medical attention for contact dermatitis?

Schedule a consultation at Mountaintop Dermatology if you have contact dermatitis symptoms that you can’t manage with over-the-counter medications or creams.

In addition to an itchy rash, symptoms can include:

• Cracked skin
• Swelling
• Tenderness
• Burning sensations
• Dark-colored skin patches

Scratching the rash can also increase your risk for a skin infection. Signs of an infection include redness, pain, and fluid drainage.

Dr. Samarin may suggest skin patch testing to identify substances that trigger an allergic reaction in your immune system.

How is contact dermatitis treated?

Mountaintop Dermatology offers several treatment options to ease symptoms of contact dermatitis in children and adults. Your care plan may include:

Medicated creams

Topical steroids help soothe dry, irritated skin and clear the rash. You might also need an antibiotic cream to treat infected skin.

Oral medications

Allergy pills may help reduce your immune system’s response to certain substances. Dr. Samarin can also prescribe an oral antibiotic if you have a skin infection or are at risk for one due to scratching.

 Make lifestyle changes to reduce exposure to allergens that trigger a contact dermatitis rash. Dr. Samarin can also recommend daily care products that are gentle on the skin and won’t cause further irritation.

Call Mountaintop Dermatology today to schedule a diagnostic evaluation of contact dermatitis symptoms. You can also use the online feature to book an appointment for yourself or your child.