Contact allergy is an exaggerated reaction of the immune system to one or more substances. If the skin comes into contact with it, allergic symptoms such as inflammation and unpleasant itching occur.
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What are allergens?
A contact allergy is always common: Over 25% of the German population has a contact allergy to at least one substance. In the case of an allergy, the body’s own defense system is directed against certain substances that are basically harmless. The substances that lead to an allergy are called allergens. They are composed of vegetable or animal proteins, but inorganic substances such as metals (such as nickel) can also cause allergies and are harmless for most people. If the immune system still fights these substances, it is an allergic reaction.
Contact allergy is a late-type allergy because symptoms only appear 24 hours to 3 days after exposure to the allergen. Certain cells in the immune system are responsible for this reaction. These are called T-cells and when they come into contact with the incompatible substance, they send out messenger substances that trigger an inflammatory reaction. This inflammation is the actual reaction that is visible on the skin.
Nickel allergy is the most common contact allergy. But other metals, plants, chemicals or fragrances can also be used as allergens.
Trigger symptoms of contact allergy
Almost any substance that comes into contact with human skin can cause allergic contact dermatitis. Contact allergies to:
- Metals (in jewellery, buttons, zippers)
- Fragrances (perfumes, cosmetics, soap)
- plant
- essential oils
- chemicals
- Materials such as latex or polyester
A contact allergy manifests itself in skin changes that appear one to three days after skin contact. These irritations of the skin show up in very different forms:
- Hautrötung (Erythem)
- itching or burning
- swelling (angioedema)
- wheal formation
- weeping blisters
- crusts
- or dandruff
If the skin is in contact for a long time, the contact eczema becomes chronic. The skin becomes coarser in places, forms grooves (lichenification) or becomes calloused. So try to find the allergen as soon as possible and avoid contact with it. A doctor who carries out a so-called patch or epicutaneous test can also help you with the diagnosis. A sample of the allergen is applied to the patient’s back and covered with plasters. After two days he removes the patches. The doctor assesses the reactions to the substances applied. If skin reddens and wheals form, everything points to allergic contact dermatitis.
Contact allergy treatment
A contact allergy will never be completely cured, but the symptoms can be reduced. Particularly important: Avoid contact with allergy-causing substances . The affected skin areas must be cleaned well to promote the healing process. Various products support the skin in healing. For example, creams with a moisturizing effect and oils or baths for the affected areas are recommended.
You can also use various medications to treat acute allergic reactions. These include cortisone ointment, UV therapy with UV-A or UV-B rays.
