What type of contact dermatitis is triggered by contact with chemicals like soaps and detergents?

Irritant dermatitis is the correct answer because it occurs when the skin comes into direct contact with irritating substances, such as soaps, detergents, and other harsh chemicals. These irritants can damage the skin’s outer barrier, leading to symptoms such as redness, itching, and inflammation. This type of dermatitis is characterized by a non-immune response; rather, it is a direct result of the chemical's effects on the skin, which can lead to a more immediate reaction upon exposure.

In contrast, allergic contact dermatitis involves an immune response where the skin reacts to a substance that the immune system has previously identified as a threat, such as certain metals or fragrances. Atopic dermatitis is a chronic condition related to underlying allergic tendencies and is not solely triggered by direct irritants. Dermatitis herpetiformis is a specific autoimmune reaction associated with gluten sensitivity and manifests as blistering skin lesions. Thus, the nature of irritant dermatitis is distinctly related to the immediate effects of irritating chemicals on the skin.