Patient/caregiver was educated on measures to manage and prevent contact dermatitis as follows:
- Maintain a diary for contact allergies and update the diary as allergic symptoms are noted for any new source. Clean the skin with mild soap and warm water upon presentation with symptoms of dermatitis due to contact with any new agent, such as, clothing, perfume, or cosmetics. This helps to wash away the effect of the triggering agent on the skin. Blot the skin dry gently with a clean towel. Applying OTC calamine lotion or 1% hydrocortisone cream to the irritated skin can offer relief and help ease the itch.
- Individuals with history of frequent exacerbation of contact dermatitis must strictly avoid contact with and stop handling the triggering agents. Also, individuals with this history must avoid changing cosmetics, moisturizers, oils, perfumes, soaps, shampoos, shaving creams, and clothing materials frequently and continue with items that appeal to the nature of their skin.
- Individuals with history of plastic, latex, and rubber products must exercise extreme caution in choosing workplaces, as these products are extensively used in work environments. Notify your employer regarding your allergy to any of these products, so that, an alternative arrangement could be made. Having a medical alert bracelet displaying your allergy can significantly help.
- Individuals can present with allergy to many dyes used during clothing manufacture and various textile products, such as, silk and polyester. Observing compliance with plain cotton clothing can help them prevent development of any contact dermatitis response.
- Individuals with history of contact allergy to pet hair and fur must avoid having pets at home.
