What is Allergic Contact Dermatitis?

Understanding Allergic Contact Dermatitis, what causes it and the impact it can have on an individual is crucial if brands and retailers looking to improve the integrity of their products.

Dermatitis is a general term that describes a skin irritation which is characterised by a local inflammatory response.

When a specific substance, after repeated and prolonged contact with the skin, causes a reaction or sensitises the immune system, it triggers an allergic response. The resulting inflammation is Allergic Contact Dermatitis.

Allergic Contact Dermatitis occurs when the skin develops an allergic reaction after being exposed to a foreign substance. This causes the body to release inflammatory chemicals that can make the skin feel irritated.

Common causes of ACD include contact with jewellery, watches, hair accessories and clothing trims and common symptoms can include:

• A rash or bumps on the skin

• Itching, which can be severe.

• Redness or changes in skin colour.

• Dry patches which might resemble a burn.

• Blisters and draining fluid in severe cases.

In addition to the impact on an individual’s physical health, Allergic Contact Dermatitis can have a significant impact on a person’s mental health causing stress, anxiety, depression and anger.

Nickel is a widely known allergen which is commonly used in the manufacture of consumer products such as jewellery, watches, hair accessories and clothing trims such as zips and buckles. Whilst it’s use is permitted, it is controlled by EU REACH regulations but, once sensitised to Nickel, an individual will suffer from repeated allergic reactions when they are exposed to the allergen.