From the Guidelines
Treatment for chemical contact dermatitis involves first removing the irritant by washing the affected area with mild soap and water, as the management of irritant contact dermatitis principally involves the protection of the skin from irritants 1. The key principles of management include avoidance, protection, and substitution of irritants.
- Removing the irritant is crucial, and this can be achieved by washing the affected area with mild soap and water.
- For mild cases, over-the-counter 1% hydrocortisone cream applied 2-3 times daily for up to two weeks can reduce inflammation and itching.
- Cold compresses for 15-20 minutes several times daily help soothe the skin.
- For moderate to severe cases, prescription-strength topical corticosteroids like triamcinolone 0.1% may be needed, and oral antihistamines such as diphenhydramine (25-50mg every 4-6 hours) or cetirizine (10mg daily) can help control itching.
- In severe cases, oral corticosteroids like prednisone (typically 40-60mg daily for 5-7 days with a taper) might be prescribed. Prevention is also crucial, and this can be achieved by identifying and avoiding the triggering chemical, using protective clothing and gloves when handling potential irritants, and applying barrier creams like petroleum jelly before potential exposure, which is essential in the effective treatment and prevention of contact dermatitis 1.
- Visiting the workplace can also be beneficial in identifying potential allergens and irritants, and in the effective treatment and prevention of contact dermatitis.
From the FDA Drug Label
temporarily relieves itching associated with minor skin irritations, inflammation, and rashes due to: ... detergents ... cosmetics ... soaps Directions for itching of skin irritation, inflammation, and rashes: adults and children 2 years of age and older: apply to affected area not more than 3 to 4 times daily
The treatment for chemical contact dermatitis is to apply hydrocortisone (TOP) to the affected area not more than 3 to 4 times daily for adults and children 2 years of age and older. For children under 2 years of age, a doctor should be consulted. This treatment temporarily relieves itching associated with minor skin irritations, inflammation, and rashes caused by chemicals such as detergents, cosmetics, and soaps 2 2.
- Key points:
- Apply hydrocortisone (TOP) to the affected area
- Not more than 3 to 4 times daily
- Consult a doctor for children under 2 years of age
- Temporarily relieves itching associated with minor skin irritations, inflammation, and rashes caused by chemicals.
From the Research
Treatment Overview
- The treatment for chemical contact dermatitis involves a combination of avoidance strategies, patient education, and topical or systemic medications 3, 4, 5, 6.
- Avoiding the specific substance that caused the dermatitis is crucial in managing the condition 3, 4, 5, 6.
Topical Treatments
- Mid- or high-potency topical steroids, such as triamcinolone 0.1% or clobetasol 0.05%, can be used to treat localized acute allergic contact dermatitis lesions 4.
- Emollients and topical corticosteroids can help restore the skin barrier and reduce inflammation 6.
Systemic Treatments
- Systemic steroid therapy may be required for extensive areas of skin involvement (greater than 20 percent) 4.
- Oral prednisone can be used to treat severe cases, but it should be tapered over two to three weeks to avoid rebound dermatitis 4.
- Systemic corticosteroids and immunosuppressants may be necessary in some cases 6.
Additional Measures
- Antihistamines can be used to relieve itching and discomfort 5, 6.
- Cold water compresses and other physical measures can help reduce inflammation and itching 5.
- Treatment of secondary infections may be necessary in some cases 5.