What is it? A rash from skin contact with an irritant (soap, wipes, detergents, saliva, cleaning products) or allergen (poison ivy, nickel, fragrances, latex, adhesives). Causes redness, itching, swelling, or blisters.
Common Types
Irritant Contact Dermatitis: Caused by soaps, wipes, saliva, detergents, cleaning products, or prolonged water exposure.
Allergic Contact Dermatitis: Caused by allergens like poison ivy, nickel, fragrances, latex, or adhesives.
When to Manage at Home
✅ You can manage your child's Contact Dermatitis at home when:
Rash is mild, localized, and your child feels well (eating, playing, sleeping normally)
No fever, swelling near eyes/lips/genitals, or signs of infection
Wash with mild, fragrance-free soap + lukewarm water
Moisturize often (CeraVe, Cetaphil, Vanicream, Aquaphor)
Cool compress 20 min every few hours
Trim nails to avoid scratching
Avoid hot baths, scented products, long water exposure
Safe Medications
When to Contact Poppins
📱 Contact us again when:
Rash is spreading, worsening, or not better after 7 days of home care
New symptoms develop (fever, decreased appetite, low energy)
Rash appears near eyes, lips, or genitals
You’re unsure of the cause or treatment
When to Visit Your Pediatrician
🩺 Go to an in-person appointment when:
Rash is large, blistered, or keeps coming back
Possible infection (pus, warmth, swelling, bad smell)
When to Go to the ER
🚨 Seek immediate emergency care if your child is:
Has trouble breathing/swallowing
Experiencing sudden/severe swelling of face, lips, eyes, or throat
Showing other anaphylaxis signs: fainting, dizziness, repeated vomiting, severe stomach pain, sudden extreme fatigue or collapse
If your gut tells you something is wrong, don't hesitate to reach out. Need help? Reconnect with our on-demand team of medical staff available 24/7.
Need more support? Help is just a text message away.
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