Introduction
Dermatitis is a common skin condition that causes inflammation, redness, and irritation, often as a result of exposure to allergens, irritants, or environmental factors. It can affect anyone, but those who work in certain industries may be at higher risk due to frequent contact with harmful substances.
What is Dermatitis?
The term “dermatitis” refers to inflammation of the skin, characterized by symptoms, such as redness, swelling, or itching. It is a common condition that has many causes and forms. This condition often involves itchy, dry skin, or a rash, or it may cause the skin to blister, ooze, crust, or flake.
The signs and symptoms may vary depending on what type of dermatitis you have, including:
- Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema) – This happens when there is damage to the skin barrier. This causes the skin to become inflamed, red, itchy, dry, and bumpy
- Contact Dermatitis – This is an allergic or irritant reaction that causes a painful or itchy skin rash. This type occurs when you come into contact with an allergen, such as poison ivy (allergen) or a chemical (irritant)
- Cradle Cap – This is a harmless skin condition on an infants scalp that appears as yellow scaly patches surrounded by a red rash
- Diaper Dermatitis – This is a rash that appears on any part of a baby’s skin covered by a diaper. The skin is broken down by wetness, movement, and waste products
- Dyshidrotic Dermatitis – This type causes itchy blisters on the edges of your palms, fingers, toes, and soles of the feet
- Neurodermatitis – This type is caused by intense itching that irritates the nerve endings of the skin
- And, more!
For a full list on the different types of dermatitis, visit the Cleveland Clinic’s Webpage.
Workplace Causes of Dermatitis
Dermatitis at work is often caused by exposure to certain substances or conditions, such as:
- Water-based detergents, liquid, and chemicals
- UVA/UVB sun rays and UVC rays from arc welding
- Mechanical oil, grease, solvents, or cutting fluids
- Resins, adhesives, paints, and sealants
- Dust, powders, and airborne substances
- And, more!
Treatment
Depending on the severity of symptoms, dermatitis may be treatable at home. If at home treatment is not feasible, seek medical attention. For at home treatment:
- Wash the skin with mild soap and cool water right away
- Remove or avoid the allergen or irritant that caused the rash
- Apply hydrocortisone cream over small areas
- Use a cold, moist compress for 30 minutes, three times a day, for blisters
- And, use unscented moisturizers on damaged skin several times a day
It is advised not to use antihistamine lotion or oral antihistamine unless suggested by a doctor.
Preventing Exposure at Work
The best way to prevent dermatitis is to avoid possible exposures. There are several ways workers can prevent exposure, including:
- Follow safe procedures when handling potential irritants
- Read the manufacturer’s instructions for using products
- Refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for all chemicals you are exposed to
- Avoid spills and splashes; clean up messes properly
- Wear proper protection for the task
- Wash your hands and arms, then dry yourself with a clean towel
- Use moisturizing hand creams to replace oils in your skin after washing
- Keep your body free of irritants by changing into clean clothes at the end of the workday
- Wash contaminated clothing separate from other clothing
- And, report early signs of skin irritation
Conclusion
Dermatitis is a challenging condition that can affect many individuals, particularly those in professions with frequent exposure to irritants or allergens. However, with a better understanding of its causes, symptoms, and effective treatments, it is possible to manage and prevent flare-ups.