Eczema Allergy

Understanding Allergic Eczema

Allergic eczema occurs when the skin comes into direct contact with an allergen. This type of allergic reaction is known as a delayed allergy, as symptoms may not appear until 24 to 48 hours after exposure to the allergen. It often takes multiple exposures to trigger a response.

Common Triggers of Allergic Eczema

While allergic eczema can be caused by an immune response to various substances, some of the most common allergens include:

• Nickel (found in jewelry, earrings, belt buckles, and metal buttons on jeans)
• Perfumes (present in cosmetics)
• Clothing dyes
• Hairdressing chemicals and hair dye
• Latex
• Adhesives
• Antibiotic creams or ointments, such as neomycin

In some cases, allergic eczema can develop when the skin is exposed to chemicals in the presence of sunlight, such as after using sunscreen and spending time outdoors.

Symptoms of Allergic Eczema

Symptoms of allergic eczema can vary from person to person and may change over time. Typically, symptoms develop at the site where the skin directly contacts the allergen, but in rare cases, they can spread to other areas. Common symptoms include:

• Itching
• Burning or pain on the skin
• Red bumps that may ooze, drain, or crust
• Warm, tender skin
• Scaly, raw, or thickened skin
• Dry, red, or rough skin
• Skin inflammation
• Cuts or fissures in the skin
• Skin rash