Common Causes of Allergic Contact Dermatitis

  1. Chemicals used in shoe or clothing manufacturing: Tanning agents in leather; rubber accelerators and antioxidants in gloves, shoes, undergarments, other apparel; dyes

    Cosmetics: Hair dyes, nail polish, nail polish remover, deodorants, moisturizers, aftershave lotions, perfumes, sunscreens

    Skin products whose ingredients contain medications: Antibiotics (bacitracin, sulfonamides, neomycin), antihistamines (diphenhydramine), pain relievers (benzocaine)

    Fragrances: Found in toiletries, soaps, and scented household products (such as detergent)

  2. Metals: Nickel, cobalt, chromates, mercury, gold

  3. Plants: Poison ivy, poison oak, poison sumac

  4. Rubber (including latex): Gloves, condoms, catheters, balloons, shoes