When the dermatitis becomes chronic, the skin becomes dry, thickened and cracking. Sometimes, if the inflammation with mild irritants continues for a long time, the original irritation disappears because the skin becomes hardened. An irritant or allergen at home or at work may be responsible. In one particularly puzzling case, Walter B. Shelley, M.D., Professor of Dermatology, Medical College of Ohio in Toledo, decided to visit the home of a patient who had been hospitalized twice for severe contact dermatitis. Eyelid dermatitis is often traced to nail polish, which can cause an allergic reaction if nails touch the eye area before the polish dries completely, a two-hour process.
Lips can become sensitive to ingredients in lipsticks, toothpastes or chapped lip medications.
Armpits can become allergic to or irritated by ingredients in deodorants or antiperspirants. Dyes, elastic materials, fabric finishes such as sizing and permanent press, laundry detergents, and fabric softeners can cause dermatitis on the torso and arms and legs. They can cause terrible problems. They set off itching, and people scratch, of course, which only makes things worse. It takes a lot of laundering to get that stuff out of the clothes.