Skin rashes (dermatitis)

Rashes, sometimes called dermatitis, occur when the skin is inflamed resulting in redness, itching and/or a scale. Dermatitis accounts for 10-30 percent of dermatologic consultations and can cause bothersome itching, redness, dryness or cracks in the skin that may lead to bacterial infections. At ViteleDoc, a telehealth practice serving patients in California and Oregon, virtual urgent care provider Dustin Jacot, PA-C, can help you find the cause of your rash and get effective relief through several over-the-counter and prescription treatment options. Book online or call Dustin today to get help for your rash.

What are the types of dermatitis? 

There are several types of dermatitis, and we will focus on two common types:

Irritant contact dermatitis: 

In irritant contact dermatitis, rashes may be a reaction to direct contact with substances that are physical, mechanical or chemical. These are usually products used on a daily basis such as soaps, cleansers and rubbing alcohol. People with other skin conditions such as dry skin or eczema are at higher risk, however, anyone can develop irritant dermatitis. 

Allergic contact dermatitis: 

This occurs due to skin coming into direct contact with an allergen. This contact activates the body's immune system and triggers inflammation. This type of dermatitis can occur after exposure to products for months or years but often occurs after exposure to new products. Weaker allergens may not cause dermatitis for weeks or months.

When to suspect dermatitis is the cause of the rash?

In mild irritant contact dermatitis, you may experience itching, redness, dryness and fissures (small cracks). Stronger irritants may cause more severe symptoms such as swelling, oozing, tenderness or blisters. 

In allergic contact dermatitis, there may be intense itching and a raised red rash. In severe cases, the rash may blister. Although the rash can appear in other areas of the body due to being transferred there with the hands, it is usually limited to areas that were in direct contact with the allergen. After exposure to the allergen, the rash usually develops within 12-48 hours although it may not appear for up to two weeks in some cases. 

How is dermatitis diagnosed?

During your virtual consultation, Dustin first reviews your medical records. He will ask about symptoms such as when the rash started, any potential irritants or allergens that may have caused this, where it is located and any over the counter treatments that have been tried.

Next, he asks you to point your smartphone or web camera at the area of skin with a rash. He might also ask you to upload pictures of your skin to the online patient portal. Dustin uses the video feed of your device to examine your skin for the appearance of the rash, the location and any other signs that may indicate the cause. 

After determining the type of rash you have, Dustin makes treatment recommendations.

How is dermatitis treated?

Through gathering a careful history and a virtual physical exam at ViteleDoc, Dustin can quickly evaluate your condition and determine the most effective treatment regimen for your rash. 

Reducing or avoiding exposure to known irritants is essential. In some cases, simply reducing the use of soap and using an emollient cream or ointment completely alleviates symptoms. Wearing gloves when working with irritants may help as well. After eliminating the source, it may take two to four weeks to resolve, although some cases can take more time. 

Topical corticosteroids (steroids) may be recommended and are available in a variety of strengths with more potent strengths requiring Dustin to send a prescription to your pharmacy. He may prescribe a short course of steroid pills (such as prednisone) if the dermatitis is severe. 

It's important not to use topical antihistamines (such as brand name: Benadryl)  because it can cause contact dermatitis.

Dustin's goal of treatment of dermatitis is to restore the normal skin barrier and protect the skin from future injury. If you’re ready to get relief from dermatitis, click the online booking feature or call ViteleDoc today.