Health Conditions

Irritant contact eczema is very similar to allergic contact eczema. It occurs when the skin comes into contact with agents that are irritating, such as glues, solvents, paint or paint thinners, pesticides, fertilizers, oils, greases, gasoline, and bleaching agents. The severity of the outbreak often depends on how long the skin is exposed to the irritant. The most common symptoms associated with this form of eczema are dryness, redness, itching, inflammation, blistering, weeping, and burning at the site of contact. Individual symptoms depend on the nature of the reaction. For example, if the affected site has been in recent contact with an irritant or has been scratched or picked, it may weep and become inflamed. By contrast, if time has elapsed since the contact with the irritant, the affected area may appear dry, crusty, flaky, or leathery.

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Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It is not intended to diagnose a health condition, but it can be used as a guide to help you decide if you should seek professional treatment or to help you learn more about your condition once it has been diagnosed.