Contact Dermatitis and Skin Allergy Treatment in Germantown, TN

A persistent rash that will not go away is more than just annoying. It is a sign that something is irritating your skin. At Allergy & Asthma Specialists in Germantown, TN, we help patients find out what is causing their skin reactions and how to stop them. Call us today at (901) 202-4100 to schedule your visit.

What Is Contact Dermatitis?

Contact dermatitis is a skin condition that causes redness, itching, and inflammation after your skin comes into contact with a trigger. It is not contagious. However, it can be very uncomfortable and hard to manage without knowing the cause. There are two main types. Allergic contact dermatitis happens when your immune system reacts to a specific substance. Irritant contact dermatitis happens when a substance directly damages the skin.

Allergic vs. Irritant Contact Dermatitis

Understanding which type you have helps guide treatment. Here is a simple breakdown:

  • Allergic Contact Dermatitis—caused by an immune reaction to substances like nickel, fragrances, or latex. Symptoms may not appear until 24 to 72 hours after contact.
  • Irritant Contact Dermatitis—caused by direct skin damage from harsh chemicals, soaps, or repeated exposure to water. This is the more common type.


Both types can cause similar symptoms, so proper testing is key.

Common Contact Dermatitis Triggers

Many everyday products and materials can trigger contact dermatitis. Common culprits include:

  • Nickel in jewelry or belt buckles
  • Fragrances in soaps, lotions, and perfumes
  • Latex in gloves or medical products
  • Cleaning products and detergents
  • Poison ivy, oak, or sumac
  • Cosmetics and hair dyes
  • Rubber and adhesives


Identifying your specific trigger is the most important step toward relief.

Symptoms of Contact Dermatitis

Symptoms can vary depending on the trigger and how long you were exposed. Common signs include:

  • Red, inflamed skin
  • Itching or burning
  • Dry, cracked, or scaly patches
  • Blisters that may ooze or crust over
  • Swelling in the affected area


Symptoms usually appear where the skin made direct contact with the trigger.

How We Diagnose and Treat Contact Dermatitis

At Allergy & Asthma Specialists, we take a detailed approach to skin allergy care. We review your symptoms, lifestyle, and exposure history. Patch testing may be used to identify specific allergens. Your treatment plan may include:

  • Trigger identification and avoidance guidance
  • Topical corticosteroids or other medications
  • Skincare routine recommendations
  • Follow-up care to monitor your progress


Our team will help you understand what to avoid and how to protect your skin going forward.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How Long Does Contact Dermatitis Last?

    With proper treatment and trigger avoidance, most cases clear up within two to four weeks. Repeated exposure without treatment can make it last longer.

  • Can Contact Dermatitis Become Permanent?

    Chronic exposure to a trigger without treatment can lead to long-term skin changes. Getting evaluated early helps prevent this.

  • Is Patch Testing Safe?

    Yes. Patch testing is a safe and straightforward way to identify what your skin is reacting to. Our team will walk you through the process step by step.

  • Can I Develop a New Skin Allergy as an Adult?

    Yes. Skin allergies can develop at any age, even from products you have used for years. If you notice a new or worsening rash, it is worth getting checked.

  • How Do I Get Started?

    Call allergy & asthma specialists at (901) 202-4100 or visit our office in Germantown, TN, to book your appointment.

Find Out What Is Irritating Your Skin

You should not have to guess what is causing your skin to react. The team at Allergy & Asthma Specialists in Germantown, TN, is ready to help you find answers and feel comfortable in your own skin again. We serve patients across the greater Memphis area. Call us today at (901) 202-4100 or stop by our office. Relief starts with knowing the cause.