Causes of Eczema (contact dermatitis)

Home

Health encyclopaedia - Alphabetical Topic List

| A |

| B |

| C |

| D |

| E |

| F |

| G |

| H |

| I |

| J |

| K |

| L |

| M |

| N |

| O |

| P |

| Q |

| R |

| S |

| T |

| U |

| V |

| W |

| X |

| Y |

Substances penetrate the skin and the outer layer of the skin (epidermis) becomes damaged. This damage can be due to an irritant effect, which can cause a reaction in anyone or an allergic reaction, which will only cause a reaction in some people. It is unclear why some people become allergic to some substances, while most people do not.

Common irritants include detergents and cleaning products, solvents, oils and chemicals.

Common substances that cause allergies include: nickel, jewellery, wristwatches, belt buckles, cement, leather, tights, rubber, creams and ointments, cosmetics and perfumes, hair dyes, some plants and preservatives.