Contact dermatitis is a skin condition that is why this red, irritated, and suffers from swelling. The leading cause of this skin condition is direct contact with a substance that triggers these symptoms, and we can differentiate between irritant dermatitis and allergic contact dermatitis. The latter results from an allergic reaction to certain substances, while the former occurs from contact with certain materials. Symptoms of contact dermatitis can occur spontaneously or even appear months after exposure has occurred. If you want to end these annoyances, keep reading this FastlyHealarticle, where we explain the home remedies for contact dermatitis.
Table of Contents
Causes of contact dermatitis
Contact dermatitis is more common the older the person, especially in people exposed for a long time to certain substances that can trigger the reactions of this condition. However, children are also prone to these skin problems. We can see differences between two types of contact dermatitis:
Irritant dermatitis
It is the most frequent and appears due to contact with materials such as soaps, detergents, fabric softeners, solvents, and other chemicals. It is often presented with the appearance of a burn and is not related to an allergic reaction but arises from a response of the skin against an irritant substance. Other irritants that can irritate dermatitis are shampoos, rubber gloves, hair dyes, pesticides, cement, etc.
Allergic contact dermatitis
It is less common contact dermatitis and arises as an allergic reaction to certain substances. Some of the most common antibiotics are those rubbed on the skin, adhesives, perfumes, cosmetics, hives, creams, nail polish, rubber gloves, or shoes.
Symptoms of contact dermatitis
Depending on the type of contact dermatitis, the symptoms will vary, and the fact that each person may suffer different reactions. The most common symptoms are:
- Itching of the skin. Itching is more common in allergic dermatitis, while irritant dermatitis is more associated with pain.
- Eczema. The redness of the skin can be accompanied by exudation, and that dries over time, presenting a scaly appearance.
- The appearance of blisters and hives can form a pattern in the affected area of the skin.
- The rash occurs through red bumps that form blisters and may ooze fluid.
Home remedies with herbs
The home remedies for contact dermatitis aim to reduce irritation and itching of the skin, so some herbs are beneficial in these cases. These remedies should be used in the form of creams, washes, or compresses applied directly to the affected area, although in this case, we will focus on their use through compresses.
Thyme
The anti-inflammatory properties of thyme are excellent in cases of contact dermatitis. You will likely detect the presence of a raised red area, a sign of inflammation. Also, its antiseptic properties prevent an infection from occurring. To use thyme as a home remedy for contact dermatitis, we must prepare an infusion, impregnate a compress and apply it to the affected area.
Manzanilla
This herb is characterized by its content of mucilage, a substance that gives it part of its properties. This chamomile component helps repair skin conditions due to its anti-inflammatory power and slight analgesic effect that reduces the pain that irritant dermatitis usually causes. As in the previous case, the best option is to impregnate a compress with chamomile infusion and apply it to the skin.
Mauve
The mallow has been used to treat various skin lesions. Like chamomile, its mucilage content facilitates the healing of spots that appear with contact dermatitis. In addition, its emollient properties are excellent for curing eczema, one of the typical symptoms of contact dermatitis. We must prepare a poultice by crushing some mallow leaves and placing the paste obtained on the affected skin.
Other home remedies
We explain some home remedies for contact dermatitis applied as creams on this occasion. It is an excellent way to relieve symptoms and facilitate the disappearance of the discomfort that accompanies this condition. In addition, we can choose to prepare these home remedies ourselves quickly and easily.
Cucumber
Cucumber is widely used to care for the skin due to its high water content, making it an excellent moisturizer. Also, the benefits of this vegetable are effective in relieving the irritated and reddened skin that accompanies contact dermatitis. If you want to try this remedy, you must crush two cucumbers in a blender and apply the result to the skin area that has symptoms.
Aloe vera
Aloe vera is another product of choice for treating skin conditions. This home remedy for contact dermatitis provides anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, bactericidal, and moisturizing effects so it couldn’t be better for us. You can choose to cut a little aloe vera to obtain its liquid or buy aloe vera gel directly in an indicated establishment.
Llantén
The properties of plantain disinfect and promote healing. These effects are due to its tannin and allantoin content, which stimulate the growth of epidermal cells and facilitate the elimination of damaged ones. For this reason, this plant has been widely used in cosmetic products.
Avocado
The external uses of avocado are practical because this fruit is rich in vitamin E, which stimulates collagen creation and helps treat contact dermatitis symptoms. Preparing a cream with this fruit is another home remedy to combat contact dermatitis.
This article is merely informative. At FastlyHeal .com, we do not have the power to prescribe medical treatments or make any diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor if you present any condition or discomfort.
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I am a Surgeon with a diploma in comprehensive ultrasound and surgical care residency, an area I am specializing in. During the exercise of my profession, I have realized the need for patients to know the diseases they suffer, and I can tell you that a large part of their complications is due to a lack of information. Being a health web writer allows me to transmit my experience, without borders, to all those readers eager for knowledge, educate them in the prevention of diseases and promote a healthy lifestyle.