---
title: "Contact Dermatitis — Glossary | School of Dermatology"
url: https://schoolofdermatology.com/glossary/contact-dermatitis
description: "Learn about contact dermatitis, the difference between irritant and allergic types, common triggers, and effective treatment strategies."
lang: en
---

Glossary

# Contact Dermatitis

KON-takt dur-muh-TY-tis

## Definition

Contact dermatitis is a localized skin inflammation that occurs when the skin comes into direct contact with a substance that causes irritation or an allergic reaction. There are two main types: irritant contact dermatitis, which is the more common form caused by direct damage to the skin from harsh chemicals, soaps, or friction, and allergic contact dermatitis, which is an immune-mediated reaction to a specific allergen like nickel, fragrance, or preservatives. Symptoms include redness, itching, swelling, blistering, and dry or cracked skin at the site of contact. Treatment involves identifying and avoiding the trigger, using topical corticosteroids to reduce inflammation, and applying emollients to restore the skin barrier. Patch testing by a dermatologist can help identify specific allergens responsible for allergic contact dermatitis.

## Related Terms

Dermatitis: https://schoolofdermatology.com/glossary/dermatitis
Inflammation: https://schoolofdermatology.com/glossary/inflammation
Barrier Function: https://schoolofdermatology.com/glossary/barrier-function
Sensitized Skin: https://schoolofdermatology.com/glossary/sensitized-skin

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