Can humid weather cause dermatitis?

For about a year now, my face has been itchy and covered in red rashes, especially when it rains. The doctor diagnosed it as contact dermatitis. Could humid, rainy weather be the cause of this condition? (Thuy Nga, Dong Nai )

Reply:

Contact dermatitis is a skin condition caused by direct contact with an allergen or irritant, commonly metal components in jewelry, synthetic rubber in gloves, or chemicals from cosmetics; chemicals such as acids, alkalis, dyes, etc. Some people may also have a reaction when in contact with food.

If you develop a rash after being out in the rain, it could be a sign of plant-borne contact dermatitis caused by plant sap or pollen in rainwater that irritates or triggers an allergic reaction. Additionally, dirt and chemicals in rainwater can also be a cause of the condition.

Humid weather also creates favorable conditions for the disease to develop by increasing humidity, altering skin pH, and making the skin more sensitive to irritants. Upon contact with an irritant, the affected skin area becomes swollen, red, itchy, scaly, cracked or peeling, and develops a rash.

People with contact dermatitis often experience red rashes and peeling skin. (Image: Freepik) — People with contact dermatitis often experience red rashes and peeling skin. (Image: *Freepik)*

Besides causing itching and discomfort, the condition also affects aesthetics. To improve skin condition, patients should wash the affected area with water and mild soap to remove irritants. Limit the use of soaps with fragrances or artificial colors and scents. Use an anti-allergy cream or corticosteroid cream prescribed by a doctor to reduce swelling, redness, and itching.

Use an unscented, non-irritating moisturizer to keep skin hydrated and reduce itching. Avoid contact with irritants and discontinue use immediately if skin irritation occurs. Take and apply medication as prescribed by your doctor.

To prevent skin irritation, it's necessary to identify and avoid contact with known skin irritants. When using chemicals or items that may cause irritation, wear gloves and protective clothing. Use cosmetics and creams that have been quality-tested. Apply sunscreen to protect your skin from UV rays. Avoid contact with plants that may cause skin irritation.

In most cases, atopic contact dermatitis is not too serious and can resolve on its own once the skin is no longer in contact with the causative agent. However, the condition is prone to recurrence if the cause is not identified. In many cases, improper treatment can cause contact dermatitis to spread, leading to infection and scarring that significantly affects aesthetics.

Identifying the cause, providing proper care, and adhering to preventative measures can help control this condition effectively. However, if symptoms become severe or persistent, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist or skin specialist for proper advice and treatment.

Dr. Nguyen Thi Kim Dung
Dermatology and Cosmetic Dermatology Department, Tam Anh General Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City

Source link