Chemical Rash |
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Chemical rash or allergic contact dermatitis is due to the chemicals in certain objects and products that can cause undesirable allergic reactions. It may be acquire by skin contact with either makeup to medicines, or fabric to floorings. These substances are called “allergens”. And an individual’s reaction to allergens depends on their body’s immune system. Most of the chemical rash cases reported initially do not show signs or symptoms. Sometimes if there are indeed manifestations, they do not cause that much of a problem for the patient. But once the skin reacts or becomes sensitive to the chemicals present, such exposure will develop into a rash. A rash may be produced from an hour after the exposure or day or even weeks after.
Formaldehyde is one probable allergen which is found is found in several items like wallboard, foam insulation, permanent-press clothing, carpeting, polishes, dyes, waxes, paper, and plaster. Formaldehyde does not only produce skin rashes but can also irritate the eyes and respiratory linings. You may have a good idea of wearing protective gear such as rubber gloves and clothing to avoid in contact with external chemicals wherever you are. But you may not know that even rubber gloves or any latex materials for that matter, can cause contact dermatitis or even hives. A further complication from latex allergies may result into anaphylaxis. Cosmetics, hair dyes, and even perfumes are also main sources of chemicals that can be origins of allergic contact dermatitis. Allergens in these products include a preservative called “thimerosal” which can aggravate instances of allergies. Other household products that contain such preservatives consist of contact lens solutions, eye drops, mouthwashes, toothpastes, soap, tanning and sun-block products. The best alternative to these products are those brands which are considered hypoallergenic. These are labels which assure you of lesser chances of contracting allergies or rashes.
Chemical rashes appear to develop water blisters, redness, and swelling. The breakage of the blisters will eventually form crusts and scales. Patients who may have not have sought medical attention, may leave their skin to be dark, cracked and leathery. Doctors or dermatologists may often require some tests to determine the materials that may have contain the necessary allergens to a rash. Patch testing is one of the quick and easy methods in finding out contact allergies or chemical rashes. A little amount of suspected allergens is applied to the skin and is left there for a couple of days. The conclusion will be based upon the findings or reactions of the skin on the suspected materials.
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