What is Contact Dermatitis?

Contact dermatitis is inflammation of the skin that occurs after contact with a specific substance. There are two main types. Irritant contact dermatitis is the more common form and happens when a substance directly damages the skin surface, such as frequent hand washing, detergents or harsh skincare. Allergic contact dermatitis occurs when the immune system becomes sensitized to a substance, such as nickel, fragrance, preservatives or hair dye, and reacts each time the skin is exposed. Reactions usually appear where the substance touched the skin but can spread.

Who it's for

Contact dermatitis may be the cause if you notice:

• Red, itchy or burning skin after using a new product
• A rash under jewelry, a watch strap or a belt buckle
• Dry, cracked hands from frequent washing or gloves
• Small blisters or oozing in a defined area
• Swollen, itchy eyelids or a rash around the face after cosmetics
• A rash that improves when you stop using something and returns when you restart

How we treat it at Egg Clinic

A dermatologist examines the rash and reviews your products, work, hobbies and recent exposures to pinpoint possible triggers. We also consider other conditions, such as eczema, rosacea or fungal infection, that can look similar. Treatment may include:

• Trigger avoidance: practical guidance on what to stop using and safer alternatives
• Topical anti-inflammatory treatment: prescription creams to reduce redness and itching
• Oral medication: to relieve itching or, for severe or widespread reactions, to control inflammation
• Barrier repair: gentle moisturizers and cleansers to help the skin heal
• Further testing: referral for patch testing when an allergy is suspected but unclear

What to expect

Your consultation includes a detailed history and skin examination. Treatment is non-invasive. With trigger avoidance and appropriate treatment, many reactions improve within one to three weeks, although allergic reactions can take longer to settle. If the cause remains uncertain or the rash keeps returning, patch testing may help. Seek urgent care if you develop facial or throat swelling, difficulty breathing, widespread blistering or signs of infection such as fever and increasing pain.

Aftercare

• Stop using any suspected product until reviewed by your dermatologist
• Wash skin gently with lukewarm water and a mild cleanser
• Moisturize regularly to support barrier recovery
• Wear cotton-lined gloves for wet work or cleaning
• Patch test new cosmetics on a small area before full use

Frequently asked questions

Why am I suddenly reacting to a product I have used for years?

Allergic contact dermatitis can develop after repeated exposure, so a long-used product can start causing reactions. Formulas can also change over time.

Is contact dermatitis contagious?

No. It is a reaction to a substance, not an infection, and cannot spread from person to person.

How can I find out exactly what I am allergic to?

Patch testing applies small amounts of common allergens to the skin to look for delayed reactions. Your dermatologist can advise whether it is appropriate for you.

Visit Egg Clinic in Sinsa

Egg Clinic is at 613 Gangnam-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul, on the 3rd, 5th, 6th and 7th floors, directly in front of Sinsa Station Exit 5 (Line 3). We are open weekdays 11:00–20:30 and Saturday and Sunday 11:00–17:00, with a lunch break from 14:00 to 15:00. Book a consultation to find the cause and calm your skin. Call +82-2-542-5540, email eggclinic1@gmail.com, or message us on WhatsApp or KakaoTalk.