From the Guidelines
The treatment for contact dermatitis body rash involves first identifying and avoiding the triggering substance, and then using topical corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone 1% cream, to reduce inflammation and itching 1. To manage contact dermatitis, it is essential to:
- Identify and avoid the triggering substance
- Use soap substitutes and emollients to reduce irritation, as soaps and detergents can compound the situation 1
- Apply cool compresses to the affected areas for 15-20 minutes several times daily for immediate relief
- Use over-the-counter topical corticosteroids like hydrocortisone 1% cream, which can be applied 2-3 times daily for up to two weeks to reduce inflammation and itching
- Consider oral antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) 25-50mg every 4-6 hours or non-sedating options like cetirizine (Zyrtec) 10mg daily, to help control itching
- For widespread or severe rashes, prescription-strength corticosteroids or a short course of oral prednisone (typically 20-40mg daily for 5-7 days with tapering) may be necessary
- Calamine lotion can soothe irritated skin, while moisturizers help repair the skin barrier after the acute phase
- Oatmeal baths using colloidal oatmeal can also provide relief It is crucial to note that if the rash doesn't improve within 1-2 weeks, shows signs of infection (increased pain, warmth, swelling, pus), or is accompanied by fever or difficulty breathing, medical attention should be sought immediately 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
Topical corticosteroids such as clobetasol propionate are effective in the treatment of corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses primarily because of their anti-inflammatory, antipruritic, and vasoconstrictive actions. The treatment for contact dermatitis body rash is topical corticosteroids, such as clobetasol propionate, due to their anti-inflammatory, antipruritic, and vasoconstrictive effects 2.
- Clobetasol propionate is a corticosteroid that can be used to treat corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses, including contact dermatitis.
- The exact mechanisms of action are uncertain, but clobetasol propionate has been shown to be effective in treating dermatologic conditions.
From the Research
Treatment for Contact Dermatitis Body Rash
The treatment for contact dermatitis body rash can be categorized into several approaches:
- Topical Corticosteroids: Mid- or high-potency topical steroids, such as triamcinolone 0.1% or clobetasol 0.05%, are effective in treating localized acute allergic contact dermatitis lesions 3, 4.
- Systemic Steroid Therapy: For extensive areas of skin involvement (greater than 20 percent), systemic steroid therapy may be required, offering relief within 12 to 24 hours 3.
- Avoidance of Causative Substance: The first step in confirming the diagnosis is determining whether the problem resolves with avoidance of the suspected causative substance 3.
- Patch Testing: If treatment fails and the diagnosis or specific allergen remains unknown, patch testing should be performed to identify the causative substance 3.
Specific Treatment Options
- Clobetasol Propionate Emollient Cream: A cream formulation of 0.05% clobetasol propionate containing moisturizers, which can contribute to improved moisture content in treated skin, is well tolerated and effective in courses of up to 4 weeks for the treatment of patients with psoriasis or atopic dermatitis 4.
- Oral Prednisone: In patients with severe rhus dermatitis, oral prednisone should be tapered over two to three weeks to avoid rebound dermatitis 3.
Important Considerations
- Cross-Reactivity: Patients who develop contact dermatitis from certain substances, such as diphenhydramine hydrochloride, should avoid its oral or parenteral administration and other substances that may cross-react with it 5.
- Systemic Contact Dermatitis: In rare cases, systemic contact dermatitis can occur from oral treatment with corticosteroids, and a safe corticosteroid should be identified for such patients through patch and intradermal tests 6.