How is allergic contact dermatitis typically treated?

Allergic contact dermatitis is an inflammatory reaction that occurs when the skin comes into contact with a substance to which an individual is allergic. The primary treatment for this condition involves the use of corticosteroids. Corticosteroids are anti-inflammatory medications that help to reduce redness, swelling, and itching associated with the inflammatory response.

When applied topically, corticosteroids can effectively alleviate the symptoms of allergic contact dermatitis by suppressing the immune response triggered by the allergen. In more severe cases, oral corticosteroids might be prescribed to control extensive reactions.

While antibiotics are not effective in treating allergic contact dermatitis unless there is an associated infection, antihistamines may help relieve itching but do not address the inflammation directly. Moisturizers can aid in improving skin hydration and barrier function but are not specifically therapeutic for the inflammation caused by allergic contact dermatitis. Thus, corticosteroids remain the primary choice for treatment due to their targeted action on inflammation in this type of dermatitis.