Q. What causes rashes?

The most common cause of a rash is contact dermatitis, an inflammation of the skin that comes from direct contact with irritants or allergens. A red, itchy rash from contact dermatitis isn't contagious, and usually goes away in two to four weeks.The cause of contact dermatitis is direct contact with irritants or allergens. These include: detergents, soaps, makeup, deodorant, clothing, chemicals, rubber, metals, jewelry, fragrances, plants and medicinal lotions.There are two types of contact dermatitis.Irritant contact dermatitis is caused by a substance such as bleach that irritates the skin. Allergic contact dermatitis is caused by a reaction to an allergen, which is a substance that induces an allergy.If the cause of a rash isn't obvious, you may have to get a "patch test." During one of these tests, small amounts of possible allergens are placed on patches that are attached to your skin for two days. If you are allergic to a tested substance, a bump will appear on your skin.You should seek medical attention for a rash when it interferes with your sleep or your normal daytime activities, you are in pain, you think you have an infection, or home care hasn't worked.If you scratch a rash for a long time, you can get neurodermatitis, a condition in which skin becomes thick. Persistent scratching can also lead to infection, scars or color changes in your skin.To treat contact dermatitis you should:• Avoid the irritants.• Use topical creams containing hydrocortisone, and oral corticosteroids and antihistamines to reduce inflammation and itching.• Stop scratching.• Apply cool, wet compresses.• Cover affected area with bandages to protect skin and prevent scratching.• Bathe in cool water with baking soda or finely ground oatmeal.• Wear smooth-textured cotton clothing to avoid irritation.• Wash with mild soaps without dyes or perfumes, and rinse thoroughly.• Use plastic gloves to avoid contact with household cleaners.• When laundering, use mild, unscented detergent and an extra rinse cycle.The following are some common allergens:Skin products. Perfumes, lotions, and cosmetics may cause allergic contact dermatitis. Others are sensitive to preservative chemicals needed to prevent skin care products from spoiling.Poison plants. These include poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac.Rubber. Chemical additives in rubber can cause a reaction. Rubber gloves can cause dermatitis. Synthetic gloves can be used. Women with a rubber allergy can wear undergarments with spandex if they do not have rubber-backed fasteners or edges. Bras without rubber are also available.Hair dyes. Some people are sensitive to paraphenylene-diamine (PPD). This ingredient is found in permanent hair dyes that are mixed with another chemical, such as peroxide, before application. Most people allergic to PPD can use temporary dyes.Nickel. Nickel is found in gold jewelry and metal alloys. Many chrome-plated objects contain enough nickel to produce a reaction in sensitive people. Buckles, zippers, buttons and can cause dermatitis.Chromates. Chromates contain chromium, and are commonly responsible for allergic contact dermatitis from cement, leather, some matches, paints, and anti-rust products. Chromates are also used to tan leather for shoes and can result in shoe dermatitis. Vegetable-tanned footwear can be used as an alternative.The Times News, Inc., and affiliates do not endorse or recommend any medical products, processes, or services or provide medical advice. The views of the author do not necessarily state or reflect those of the TIMES NEWS. The article content is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.