From the FDA Drug Label
Uses temporarily relieves itching associated with minor skin irritations, inflammation, and rashes due to: eczema psoriasis poison ivy, oak, sumac insect bites detergents jewelry cosmetics soaps seborrheic dermatitis 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 an adhesive rash is to apply hydrocortisone 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 1 1.
From the Research
The treatment for an adhesive rash involves first removing the adhesive product causing the reaction and gently cleansing the area with mild soap and water. For mild reactions, apply a topical corticosteroid cream such as hydrocortisone 1% three to four times daily for up to one week to reduce inflammation and itching, as suggested by 2. Cool compresses can provide additional relief. For more severe reactions with significant discomfort, an oral antihistamine like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) 25-50mg every 4-6 hours or cetirizine (Zyrtec) 10mg once daily may help control itching. If the rash is weeping or shows signs of infection, keep the area clean and consider applying an antibacterial ointment like bacitracin. These reactions occur because adhesives contain chemicals that can trigger allergic contact dermatitis or irritant contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals, as discussed in 3 and 4. The skin becomes inflamed as part of an immune response to these substances. Seek medical attention if the rash worsens, spreads, develops blisters, becomes painful, or doesn't improve within a week of treatment, as stronger prescription medications may be needed, and consider the prevention of medical adhesive-related skin injury (MARSI) as outlined in 5. It's also important to note that while some studies like 6 suggest that perceived reactions to medical adhesive bandages may not be due to allergic contact dermatitis but rather irritant contact dermatitis, a thorough assessment is necessary to determine the best course of action. Key considerations include:
- Removing the causative adhesive product
- Gentle cleansing of the affected area
- Topical corticosteroids for inflammation and itching
- Oral antihistamines for severe discomfort
- Antibacterial ointments for signs of infection
- Prevention of MARSI through proper use and removal of medical adhesives.