Contact Dermatitis Treatment in Northern Colorado

What Is Contact Dermatitis?

Contact dermatitis is a common skin reaction that happens when your skin comes in direct contact with an irritating substance or allergen. This can cause redness, itching, burning, or even blisters. While uncomfortable, contact dermatitis is not contagious and is highly treatable with the right care.

Common triggers include:

Soaps, detergents, or cleaning products
Metals like nickel in jewelry
Cosmetics or skincare products
Plants such as poison ivy, oak, or sumac
Chemicals at work or home

How We Diagnose Contact Dermatitis

Because symptoms often mimic other skin conditions, proper diagnosis is key. At Altitude Dermatology, our providers take a personalized approach that may include:

Woman answering questions about medical history at dermatology appointment.

Medical History Review & Physical Exam

Our providers review your symptoms, daily habits, and work or home exposures, then carefully examine the rash’s pattern and location to identify likely triggers.

Patch Testing

If the trigger isn’t clear, patch testing can identify specific allergens by applying small samples to your skin and checking for reactions.

Dermatologist assessing contact dermatitis rash.

Rule-Out of Other Conditions

Because eczema, psoriasis, and infections can look similar, we use expert evaluation to rule out other causes of skin irritation.

Patient recieveing skin check from dermatologist.

Personalized Diagnosis

By combining your history, exam, and test results, we create a clear diagnosis that guides your treatment plan and helps prevent future flare-ups.

Treatment Options for Contact Dermatitis

Successful treatment starts with avoiding the substance causing the reaction. From there, our dermatology team may recommend:

Topical solution for contact dermatitis.

Topical Medications

Prescription-strength corticosteroid creams or ointments help calm inflammation, reduce redness, and relieve itching in affected areas.

Oral Medications

For more severe reactions, antihistamines can ease itching, while short courses of oral corticosteroids may quickly control widespread rashes.

Patient applying moisturizer to contact dermatitis rash.

Skin Barrier Support

Moisturizers and barrier creams strengthen and repair the skin, protecting against irritants and allergens while supporting long-term healing.

Patient applying cool compression to contact dermatitis rash.

Symptom Relief

Cool compresses, soothing oatmeal baths, or calamine lotion can provide quick comfort and reduce irritation during flare-ups.

Advanced Therapies

For chronic or stubborn cases, options like phototherapy or immunosuppressive medications may be recommended by our dermatology team.

Why Choose Altitude Dermatology for Contact Dermatitis Treatment

Choosing the right dermatology clinic for your skin check makes a difference. At Altitude Dermatology, we provide:

Local Expertise

Trusted dermatology care in Johnstown, Longmont, and soon Fort Collins.

Comprehensive Testing

On-site patch testing and advanced diagnostics to identify triggers.

Personalized Care

Treatment plans tailored to your skin, your environment, and your needs.

Experienced Providers

Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Brad Baack and our skilled PA-Cs, April Hofmann and Eric Krinsky, bring years of experience treating skin conditions like contact dermatitis.

Dermatological Services

Specialized Treatments