Chemical rash or allergic contact dermatitis are caused bye chemicals within products or objects that cause an allergic skin response or reaction. Chemical rashes are commonly associated with makeup, medicines, detergent, soaps, shampoos, fabric, floor coverings and other common household products. These substances are called allergens. Reaction to chemical rash allergens depends on individual immune system sensitivity and health.

Most 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.

Chemical Rash: Common Causes

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.

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Chemical Rash: Signs and Symptoms

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.

Chemical Rash: Treatment

Chemical rash is sometimes difficult to diagnose because symptoms may vary person to person depending on several factors. The physician’s diagnosis might not determine every manifestation of the allergic reaction.
Common medications over the counter are effective treatments for mild itching or dryness of the skin on its initial stage of contraction. Antihistamines can help alleviate the discomfort of allergic reactions to chemicals.