The medical term for this redness, swelling, drying, or cracking is dermatitis. Common causes of dermatitis can be found both at work and at home and include jewelry, plants, chemicals, and clothing. D ermatitis caused by substances that come in contact with the skin is called contact dermatitis .
Contact dermatitis is a common problem that affects millions of people.
Among the common substances known to cause contact dermatitis are soaps, rubber, nickel, household and industrial chemicals, cosmetics, and perfumes. A llergic contact dermatitis is a skin rash or dermatitis that occurs when substances you are allergic to come in contact with your skin. Substances that cause allergic reactions are called allergens. I rritant contact dermatitis is a rash or inflammation that is caused by exposure to a substance that damages the skin. A patch test is a skin test used by healthcare providers to help determine whether your contact dermatitis is caused by an allergen or an irritant.