Contact Dermatitis vs. Eczema: How to Tell the Difference

If you’ve experienced red, itchy skin, you might wonder whether it’s contact dermatitis or eczema. Although these conditions have similar symptoms, knowing their differences helps you get the right treatment. Let’s dive in!

What is Contact Dermatitis?

Contact dermatitis occurs when your skin touches an irritant or allergen, leading to an itchy, red, inflamed rash. Common culprits include:

• Harsh soaps and detergents
• Poison ivy or oak
• Nickel (found in jewelry)
• Fragrances in personal care products

Symptoms:

• Sudden onset after contact
• Clear borders at the contact site
• Possible blistering or oozing

What is Eczema?

Eczema (atopic dermatitis) is a chronic condition often linked to allergies and asthma. It tends to flare up periodically, sometimes triggered by stress, climate changes, or irritants.

Symptoms:

• Dry, sensitive skin
• Chronic itching and redness
• Scaly patches
• Often located in skin folds or on hands, feet, and face

How to Tell the Difference

• Timing: Contact dermatitis appears shortly after exposure to an irritant. Eczema typically has ongoing, intermittent flare-ups.
• Location: Contact dermatitis appears precisely where the skin touched the irritant. Eczema can appear broadly and symmetrically.
• Family history: Eczema often runs in families, along with allergies and asthma.

Treatment Options

• Contact Dermatitis: Identify and avoid irritants. Over-the-counter creams or prescription medications can help.
• Eczema: Use gentle moisturizers regularly, avoid triggers, and consider prescribed topical steroids or antihistamines.

Comparison Table: Contact Dermatitis vs. Eczema

When to See a Doctor

Consult an allergist or dermatologist if:

• Symptoms are severe or widespread.
• The rash doesn’t improve with home care.
• You’re unsure what’s causing your rash.

Understanding these differences can help you manage your symptoms effectively and maintain healthier, happier skin.

What are you waiting for?  If you or your child need help controlling allergies or if you think you need testing or treatment or that you might be a good candidate for allergy shots, Dr. Wendt and her team staff at Relieve Allergy, Asthma & Hives would love to help. Call for testing or treatment today!

Call 480-500-1902 or request an appointment at https://relieveallergyaz.com/contact now!  Begin your allergy testing journey with Dr. Wendt at Relieve Allergy in Scottsdale, Arizona—It’s time to take care of yourself!

Learn more about Dr. Wendt and Relieve Allergy Asthma & Hives at www.relieveallergyaz.com or connect with us: https://www.facebook.com/RelieveAllergy/, https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-wendt/, https://x.com/RelieveAllergy, https://www.instagram.com/relieve_allergy/ or https://www.youtube.com/@JulieWendt-qx7jm.

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Relieve Allergy Asthma & Hives is located near Kierland Commons, 21803 N. Scottsdale Road Ste. 200, and has convenient evening and morning hours to accommodate your schedule. Dr. Wendt is also available for telemedicine appointments as appropriate. Most insurance plans are accepted.

DISCLAIMER: This blog is not meant to substitute for medical care by an Allergist-Immunologist nor is it intended to provide medical advice or imply a Physician-Patient relationship with its readers or their family. It is intended to provide guidance, direction, and moral support from someone experienced in testing and treating allergies. This is also not meant to be a “do-it-yourself” manual or a “how to” overcome your allergies. Some of the issues mentioned, whether allergic or look-a-like, can be dangerous or if left unchecked, deadly. Please develop a relationship with a Physician you trust to help you with diagnosis, advice, questions, and treatment regarding your and your family’s medical conditions.