Contact Dermatitis

Allergic contact dermatitis occurs when your immune system reacts to a specific allergen like poison ivy, nickel, or fragrances, typically appearing 24-48 hours after exposure. Irritant contact dermatitis results from direct chemical damage to the skin from substances like harsh soaps, solvents, or acids, usually appearing within hours. Our medical providers evaluate your symptoms and exposure history to determine which type you have, as treatment approaches may differ.

No appointment is necessary. We welcome walk-ins daily from 8am to 8pm at both our Palm Beach Gardens and Stuart locations. Most patients are evaluated and treated during a single visit.

Our medical providers conduct detailed exposure histories and examine the pattern and location of your rash to identify likely triggers. Common culprits include poison ivy, nickel jewelry, fragrances, preservatives in cosmetics, latex gloves, and cleaning products. While we can often narrow down probable causes, definitive allergy testing may require referral to a dermatologist or allergist for patch testing.

Many cases of contact dermatitis benefit from prescription-strength topical corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and itching. For severe or widespread reactions, oral corticosteroids or antihistamines may be prescribed. Our medical providers assess your specific situation and prescribe appropriate medications when needed, with prescriptions sent electronically to your pharmacy.

Prevention focuses on identifying and avoiding your specific triggers. We provide detailed guidance on reading product labels, choosing hypoallergenic alternatives, using protective barriers like gloves, and implementing proper skin care routines. Keeping a diary of products and exposures helps identify patterns. For occupational exposures, we can provide documentation and recommendations for workplace accommodations.

Please bring your photo ID, insurance card if applicable, and a list of current medications. If possible, bring samples or photographs of products you suspect may have caused the reaction, including cosmetics, cleaning products, or plants. This information helps our medical providers identify potential triggers more accurately.

Visit the emergency room if you experience severe facial swelling, difficulty breathing or swallowing, rapid spread of the rash over large body areas, signs of severe infection with fever, or symptoms of anaphylaxis. For typical contact dermatitis with localized rash and itching, urgent care provides appropriate evaluation and treatment.

No, contact dermatitis itself is not contagious and cannot spread from person to person. However, in the case of poison ivy, oak, or sumac, the plant oil (urushiol) can transfer from contaminated clothing, tools, or pet fur to other people. The rash itself does not spread the reaction, but any remaining plant oil on surfaces can cause new reactions in others who touch it.