Eczema (Contact Dermatitis): Causes & Symptoms

Eczema is a skin condition that can cause redness, itching, inflammation, and crusting. Contact dermatitis is a type of eczema that occurs when the skin reacts to a specific substance. There are two main types:

1. Irritant Contact Dermatitis: This type develops when the skin comes into contact with an irritating substance, such as chemicals, soaps, or detergents. In this case, the skin is directly damaged by the chemical substance.
2. Allergic Contact Dermatitis: This occurs as a result of an allergic reaction. When the skin comes into contact with an allergen, the immune system overreacts. These allergens are usually perfumes, metals (especially nickel), or certain plants.

In both cases, itching, redness, swelling, and sometimes crusting can be observed on the skin. Treatment generally involves avoiding irritants, using corticosteroid creams, and taking antihistamines.

Eczema (contact dermatitis) can develop as an allergic or irritant reaction of the skin to various substances. Here are some common substances that can cause eczema and contact dermatitis:

1. Irritant Substances:

• Chemical Cleaning Products: Detergents, bleach, dish soaps, and similar chemical cleaning products can irritate the skin.

• Soaps and Shampoos: Excessively harsh soaps or shampoos can strip the skin of natural oils, causing dryness and irritation.

• Surface Cleaners: Cleaning agents containing ammonia, in particular, can irritate the skin.

• Solvents: Substances like paint, varnish, and acetone can cause dryness and irritation.

• Climate Conditions: Cold weather, wind, and low humidity can lead to dry and sensitive skin.

2. Allergenic Substances:

• Metals: Metals, especially nickel (jewelry, buttons, belt buckles), can cause allergic reactions.

• Perfumes and Cosmetic Products: Certain chemicals in perfumes, creams, and lotions can trigger allergic reactions.

• Plants: Plants like sumac or poplar can cause contact dermatitis.

• Latex: Latex gloves and other latex products can lead to allergic reactions.

• Medications: Some topical drugs or creams may cause allergic reactions or contact dermatitis.

• Paints and Acrylic Materials: Art supplies, especially acrylic paints, can cause allergic reactions upon skin contact.

• Animal Hair and Secretions: Pet hair, saliva, or dander can trigger allergic reactions.

3. Other Factors:

• Hot and Humid Weather: Excessive heat and humidity increase sweating, leading to skin irritation.

• Clothing: Tight or sweat-inducing clothing (especially synthetic fabrics) can cause friction and irritation.

• Detergents and Laundry Products: Laundry detergents and fabric softeners can irritate the skin, especially with prolonged contact.

When these substances come into direct contact with the skin, some individuals may experience itching, redness, swelling, and crusting. Treatment generally involves avoiding contact with these substances and using therapeutic creams or medications.

The symptoms of eczema (contact dermatitis) generally appear as the skin’s reaction to a substance and may vary from person to person. The most common symptoms are:

1. Itching
It is the most prominent symptom of eczema. Intense itching can interfere with daily life.

2. Redness
Redness and inflammation are observed on the affected area of the skin.

3. Swelling
Swelling and raised areas may develop. Swelling usually indicates inflammation in the skin.

4. Dryness
The skin in affected areas may become dry and scaly. Loss of moisture can lead to cracking.

5. Crusting and Sores
Prolonged scratching and inflammation can lead to crust formation or sores on the skin.

6. Blisters
In allergic contact dermatitis, small fluid-filled blisters may form on the skin. These blisters can sometimes burst, leaving open sores.

7. Skin Thickening
Chronic eczema can cause thickening and hardening of the skin, a condition known as lichenification.

8. Flaky Skin
Peeling, crusting, and flaking of the skin may be observed.

9. Pain or Burning
Some individuals may experience pain or a burning sensation along with redness and inflammation.

These symptoms usually begin shortly after the skin is exposed to the triggering substances. Symptoms may gradually decrease as inflammation subsides, but in some cases, permanent damage or scarring can occur. Treating contact dermatitis helps alleviate symptoms and accelerates the healing process.

The treatment of eczema (contact dermatitis) is generally applied to relieve symptoms and promote skin healing. Treatment may vary depending on the patient’s condition and the type of eczema. Here are some common treatment methods:

1. Avoiding Irritant Substances
The first and most important step in treatment is to stop contact with the substance triggering the skin reaction. If exposure to an allergic or irritant substance has occurred, it should be identified and avoided.

2. Topical Steroid Creams
Steroid creams help reduce inflammation and redness in the skin. Low-potency steroids can be used for mild cases, while stronger steroids are used for more severe cases. Long-term use should be avoided due to potential side effects.

3. Moisturizing Creams and Lotions
Dry skin can worsen eczema symptoms. Moisturizers maintain skin hydration, prevent dryness, and strengthen the skin barrier. Barrier creams help protect the skin against external factors.

4. Antihistamines
Antihistamines can be used to relieve itching. These medications reduce excessive immune reactions, helping to decrease itching.

5. Cold Compress
Applying a cold compress can relieve itching and reduce inflammation. This method is especially useful during acute eczema flare-ups.

6. Phototherapy (Light Therapy)
In severe eczema cases, doctors may recommend special light therapy (phototherapy). UVB light can reduce inflammation and accelerate the healing process.

7. Corticosteroid Injections
In some cases, steroid injections may be administered to rapidly reduce inflammation in the skin.

8. Immune System Modulators
Immunosuppressive treatments suppress excessive immune responses. These options are used particularly in severe cases that do not respond to topical steroids. Medications such as tacrolimus and pimecrolimus fall into this category.

9. Antibiotic Treatment
If a skin infection develops due to eczema (e.g., bacterial infection), antibiotic treatment may be required.

10. Immune Modulator Therapies
Since eczema is related to the immune system, immune-modulating therapies (e.g., dupilumab) can be used in some cases to regulate immune responses.

11. Allergy Treatment
If eczema is caused by an allergic reaction, identifying allergens and avoiding them is an important part of treatment. Allergy tests and antihistamines can be effective in this regard.

12. Natural Remedies and Home Care
Some individuals may find relief with natural remedies. Aloe vera, oatmeal baths, and coconut oil can soothe and comfort the skin. However, their effectiveness may vary, and they should always be used under a doctor’s guidance.

13. Psychological Support
Eczema can psychologically affect individuals due to itching and the appearance of the skin. Supportive therapies or stress management techniques (yoga, meditation) can be included in the treatment process.

14. Education and Awareness
Since eczema is often a chronic condition, educating patients and families about proper care is important. Establishing correct skin care routines can increase the effectiveness of treatment.

Treatment should be personalized and guided by a dermatologist or specialist physician. Eczema treatment generally achieves success through a combination of multiple methods tailored to the patient’s condition.