Dermatitis is a general term for skin irritation that results in itching, burning, redness, dry skin, rashes and sores. Although it is usually not contagious or life-threatening, dermatitis can cause physical and emotional discomfort that makes daily tasks difficult.
Contact dermatitis is a type of skin irritation that appears after accidentally touching chemicals and substances that inflame and irritate your skin. Anyone can suddenly experience contact dermatitis, but people diagnosed with eczema are more likely to experience skin irritation.
Here are sneaky ingredients in your everyday household items that can cause skin reactions:
Formaldehyde is a widespread chemical found in many everyday items. It’s a major trigger of skin irritation. This chemical, which often goes by multiple aliases in chemical ingredient labels, is used as an industrial disinfectant and preservative. It is often found in cotton and polyester fabric blends, keratin hair treatments, pressed wood furniture, detergent and cosmetics.
According to the American Cancer Society, some epidemiology studies have also linked high exposure to formaldehyde with throat and nasal cancer.
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What has become a popular beauty trend could also be a source of skin discomfort. Unfortunately, lash extensions aren’t permanent and won’t stick themselves. Cyanoacrylate is a common ingredient used in most professional and commercial eyelash glues and adhesives.
For some people, it can result in allergic contact dermatitis. This allergic reaction may suddenly and randomly appear over time.
Signs of a skin reaction include headaches, swollen eyelids, itching, stinging or burning eyes. A 2013 study also linked cyanoacrylate-based eyelash glue to mucus inflammation and occupational asthma. If you experience irritation but aren’t ready to give up the lashes,
consider cyanoacrylate-free adhesives.
The rubber or latex gloves you wear to protect your skin and hands against chemicals could be the cause of skin woes. Latex is made from tree sap and is found in many everyday products such as bandages, gloves, condoms, grips on toothbrushes, floor mats, paint and condoms.
Contact with rubber can result in a skin reaction that includes hives, rashes, and in some cases, life-threatening anaphylaxis. An allergic reaction can suddenly appear and might progressively worsen with each added exposure. If you notice a skin reaction after touching or having close contact with rubber products, switch it out with latex-free alternatives, such as Nitrile or Vinyl.
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Washing your linens, blankets and clothes with scented detergents could be a culprit of ongoing skin inflammation. Similarly, perfumes, deodorant, and aftershave can also cause skin reactions. The dye and synthetic fragrance included in these products can trigger rashes, inflammation and acne breakouts. Reactions might occur immediately after exposure or may take up to three days for symptoms to appear. If you notice itchy, patchy and dry skin every morning or shortly after laundry days, consider swapping out your products for fragrance-free or skin sensitive ingredients.
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Usually, dermatitis is not a life-threatening condition. But the burning, itching and dry skin can cause discomfort and scarring. If the rash does not improve within three weeks or spreads throughout your body, you should see a doctor.
Also, be sure to seek emergency care if the irritated skin has a strong odor or emits pus. You may also experience a fever or difficulty breathing.
Here are some strategies for discomfort relief after touching a household skin irritant:
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