Combating Allergic Contact Dermatitis

What You Need to Know

Allergic contact dermatitis affects 7% of the population.


It occurs when an allergen makes direct or airborne contact with your skin.

• Symptoms may include:
• A blistery rash, sometimes with a linear demarcation
• Poison ivy can leave a black residue on the skin
• Red, itchy and/or swelling skin

• Potential triggers: Poison ivy, oak or sumac
• Allergic contact dermatitis is a common but treatable condition
• Treatment:
• At-home Remedies:
• Calamine lotion
• Oatmeal bath
• Medical Treatment
• Oral prednisone
• Topical steroid

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Have a skin condition that requires medical attention? Our highly trained dermatologists can help.

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Brian Matthys

Brian M. Matthys, DO, is a dermatologist at North Kansas City Hospital. He is also the founder and chief medical officer of Sunflower Dermatology and Medical Day Spa. With a commitment to providing better skin for a better life, he specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of skin, hair and nail diseases for adult and pediatric patients. In an effort to change behavior by addressing a knowledge gap surrounding sun exposure, Dr. Matthys founded eclipseRx, a technology platform designed. When Dr. Matthys is not practicing medicine, he enjoys traveling, playing guitar and spending time with his family of four.