Dermatitis for The Hair & Beauty Profession - Session 2

1. Dermatitis Online Session 2
Early Signs of Contact Dermatitis

2. What is Contact Dermatitis?
Contact dermatitis is an inflammation of the
skin resulting from contact with an external
substance
There are two main types of Contact Dermatitis:
Irritant Allergic

3. Irritant Contact Dermatitis (ICD)
• Irritants cause approx 80% of cases
• This is caused by a direct contact with an
irritant substance for a significant time
• People suffering with other ‘atopic’ conditions
(e.g. eczema, asthma) are more likely to
develop ICD

4. Causes of ICD
• Common irritants: soap, detergents, food,
cement
• Wet-work: e.g. hairdressing, cleaning, metal
working, building site work, horticultural work

5. Irritant Contact Dermatitis (ICD)

6. Allergic Contact Dermatitis (ACD)
• Allergies cause approx 20% of cases
• This is caused by hypersensitivity to a
particular substance or group of substances,
acting through the body’s immune system
• Previous exposure is required to induce allergy
• People suffering with other ‘atopic’ conditions
(e.g. eczema, asthma) are more likely to
develop ACD

7. Causes of ACD
• Common allergens: nickel, fragrances, rubber,
some plants, formaldehyde, skin medications
(topical corticosteroids), hairdressing
chemicals

8. Allergic Contact Dermatitis

9. Early signs and symptoms
Early signs:
• Dryness
• Redness
• Itching
Developing signs:
• Scaling and flaking
• Cracking and blistering
• Pain

10. Location of Contact Dermatitis and
suspicious agents
Location
• Eyelids
• Earlobes or neck
• Forehead & hairline
• Face
• Underarm
• Hands
• Waistband
• Feet
Suspicious agent
• Eye makeup, nail polish
• Metal jewellery
• Hair colours, shampoos
• Cosmetics, deodorants
• Gloves
• Elastic, nickel in belts
and trouser studs