Clothing-induced dermatitis is a type of skin irritation that arises due to the contact of clothing materials with our skin. Imagine wearing a wool sweater that itches, or you develop a rash from your new pair of jeans. That’s exactly what clothing-induced dermatitis is like. But don’t worry, this article is here to break down everything you need to know about it.

First, let’s understand what dermatitis is. Dermatitis is a general term for skin inflammation. In other words, it’s when your skin gets irritated and might turn red, swell, itch, or even blister. Clothing-induced dermatitis is a subtype of this condition where your clothes are the main culprits causing the irritation.

Types

Broadly speaking, clothing-induced dermatitis can be categorized into three main types:

1. Allergic Contact Dermatitis

This is the most common type of clothing-induced dermatitis. It happens when your skin develops an allergy to a specific substance in your clothing. Common culprits include dyes, rubber accelerators in elastics, and formaldehyde resins used for wrinkle resistance. With allergic contact dermatitis, it’s not an immediate reaction; your skin needs to be exposed to the substance multiple times before it becomes sensitized.

Imagine eating a new type of food and not having any problems initially, but after eating it multiple times, you start experiencing allergic reactions. It’s a similar principle with allergic contact dermatitis – the reaction builds over time.

2. Irritant Contact Dermatitis

Irritant contact dermatitis is when your skin gets irritated by friction, excessive heat, or certain fabrics like wool. It doesn’t involve an allergic reaction. Instead, it’s like getting a rug burn from rough carpet; the material physically irritates your skin.

3. Photoallergic Contact Dermatitis

This type of dermatitis is quite fascinating. It only occurs when your skin, having absorbed a particular chemical, is exposed to sunlight. The sun’s rays cause the substance to change, leading to an allergic reaction. Certain sunscreens, perfumes, or even the dyes in your clothes can cause this reaction.

Causes

Now let’s take a deep dive into 30 different causes that may be behind this clothing-related skin discomfort.

1. Synthetic Fabrics: Synthetic materials like nylon, polyester, and rayon are common causes. These materials don’t allow the skin to breathe properly, leading to trapped sweat and skin irritation.

2. Fabric Softeners & Detergents: Chemicals in laundry products can cause allergic reactions. If your skin is sensitive, it can react to these substances left on your clothes after washing.

3. Dyes & Colorants: Clothing dyes, especially darker ones, can trigger allergic reactions in some people. This reaction typically happens with new clothes.

4. Wool: Some people find wool itchy and irritating. Long-term contact can lead to dermatitis.

5. Rough Fabrics: Coarse materials can physically irritate the skin, causing redness and itching.

6. Latex: Often used in elastic bands in clothing, latex can cause allergic reactions in some people.

7. Formaldehyde Resins: Used in clothing to reduce wrinkling, these can trigger an allergic reaction in sensitive individuals.

8. Nickel: Common in zippers, buttons, and other clothing accessories, nickel can cause a rash in people allergic to it.

9. Heat & Sweat: Tight clothing can trap heat and sweat against your skin, causing irritation and eventually dermatitis.

10. Tight Clothing: Clothing that is too tight can cause friction, leading to skin irritation.

11. Clothes Not Fully Rinsed: If detergent or soap remains on your clothes, it can cause skin irritation.

12. Prolonged Moisture: Wearing damp clothing for extended periods can lead to a rash.

13. Abrasive Seams: Rough or badly finished seams can scratch and irritate the skin.

14. Dirty Clothes: Dirt, dust, and grime on unwashed clothes can cause skin reactions.

15. Clothing Tags: Some people find tags irritating, causing a rash or redness where the tag contacts the skin.

16. Fragrances: Scents added to clothes or laundry products can trigger dermatitis in some people.

17. Cold Weather Clothing: Some people react to specific cold-weather materials, like certain types of thermal underwear.

18. Pesticides: Some new clothes are treated with pesticides, which can lead to allergic reactions.

19. Chlorine: Residual chlorine on bathing suits from swimming pools can irritate the skin.

20. Spandex: This stretchy material can cause a reaction in some people.

21. Vinyl: Often used in rainwear, vinyl can cause skin reactions in some individuals.

22. Leather Dyes: The dyes and chemicals used in treating leather can cause skin reactions.

23. Flame Retardants: These chemicals, used in some clothes, can lead to allergic reactions.

24. Dry Cleaning Chemicals: Residue from these chemicals can remain on clothes and cause skin irritation.

25. Rubber Accelerators: Used in the production of rubber, these can cause reactions in individuals sensitive to them.

26. Metals: Besides nickel, other metals like chrome and cobalt found in clothing accessories can cause reactions.

27. Antimicrobial Finishes: Some clothes have antimicrobial treatments, which can cause skin reactions in sensitive individuals.

28. Lycra: A type of stretchy fabric that can cause skin irritation in some people.

29. Glues & Adhesives: Used in clothing construction, these can cause skin reactions.

30. Environmental Factors: Sometimes, it’s not the clothing itself but factors like dust, pollen, or pet dander stuck on the clothes that cause the irritation.

Symptoms

So, you might be wondering how you’ll know if you have clothing-induced dermatitis. To help you out, here are signs that you should look for:

1. Redness: Your skin might look more red than usual. It’s one of the first signs of irritation.
2. Swelling: The irritated skin might also swell up, which can make it look puffy.
3. Itching: This is a common symptom of most skin irritations. It might be hard, but try not to scratch. It can make things worse.
4. Burning sensation: It could feel like your skin is burning. This isn’t actual burning, but the irritation might make it feel that way.
5. Dry patches: You might notice that your skin looks dry and scaly where it’s been irritated.
6. Blisters: In severe cases, the skin might blister. It looks like a little bubble filled with fluid.
7. Weeping sores: Sometimes, the blisters can break open and ooze a clear or yellowish liquid.
8. Cracked skin: The skin might also become so dry that it cracks.
9. Pain: The affected skin could be tender and painful to touch.
10. Rash: A rash is a broad term for any kind of skin irritation, and it’s one of the most common signs of clothing-induced dermatitis.
11. Bumps: You might also see small raised bumps on the skin, which can be red, white, or skin-colored.
12. Peeling skin: Sometimes, the top layer of skin might peel off.
13. Inflamed skin: The skin might look inflamed, which means it could be red, warm, swollen, and painful.
14. Darkened skin: The skin might also become darker in the irritated areas.
15. Skin sensitivity: The skin could become more sensitive to touch, temperature, or other irritants.
16. Heat rash: This is a rash caused by overheating and sweating, often from wearing too heavy or tight clothes.
17. Rough texture: The skin might feel rough to touch.
18. Change in skin color: The skin might change color, becoming either darker or lighter than the rest of your skin.
19. Hives: These are red, itchy welts that can appear anywhere on the body.
20. Infection: If the skin is very irritated and not treated properly, it could get infected. This might cause more pain, swelling, redness, and possibly pus.

Now, if you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor. They can check your skin and tell you what’s going on.

Diagnosis

Let’s delve into the potential diagnoses and related tests for clothing-induced dermatitis.

1. Allergic Contact Dermatitis (ACD): ACD is an allergic reaction to a specific substance touching the skin. In this case, it could be due to dyes, resins, or fabrics in clothing. Doctors might perform a patch test to determine the cause.

2. Irritant Contact Dermatitis (ICD): ICD happens when clothes irritate the skin physically, without an allergic reaction. Dermatologists usually diagnose ICD through an exclusion process.

3. Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema): Clothing can aggravate atopic dermatitis. This condition is often diagnosed based on patient history, symptoms, and physical examination.

4. Psoriasis: Psoriasis can worsen with certain clothing materials. Doctors may diagnose it by a physical examination and sometimes a skin biopsy.

5. Urticaria (Hives): Hives can occur due to a reaction to fabrics or dyes in clothing. They’re diagnosed by their typical appearance and, if needed, a blood test.

6. Impetigo: Impetigo is a bacterial infection that can be aggravated by clothing. Doctors diagnose it based on physical signs.

7. Scabies: Scabies can spread through clothes, leading to intense itching. It is diagnosed by a skin scraping examination.

8. Lice Infestation: Lice can also transmit through clothes. Lice are diagnosed by visual confirmation.

9. Tinea Corporis (Ringworm): Ringworm can thrive in certain clothing, causing a ring-like rash. This condition is diagnosed by skin scrapings and fungal culture.

10. Seborrheic Dermatitis: Clothing can irritate this condition, characterized by red, scaly skin. Diagnosis is based on its typical appearance and location on the body.

11. Cutaneous Candidiasis: Clothing can create a warm, moist environment, ideal for candida yeast to thrive. Diagnosis is often by physical examination and culture if needed.

12. Folliculitis: Tight clothing can cause folliculitis, an inflammation of hair follicles. A physical exam usually helps diagnose this.

13. Contact Urticaria: This is an immediate allergic reaction to certain substances in clothes. Diagnosis is typically through skin prick tests.

14. Pityriasis Rosea: Certain clothes may irritate this skin condition, causing a rash. Doctors diagnose it based on its typical appearance.

15. Heat Rash (Miliaria): Heat rash can occur when sweat ducts are blocked by tight clothing. Diagnosis is by visual inspection.

16. Intertrigo: Intertrigo happens when skin folds rub together, often exacerbated by clothes. It is diagnosed by visual examination.

17. Lichen Simplex Chronicus: This is a thickening of the skin from chronic itching and scratching, which can be aggravated by clothing. Diagnosis is typically via a skin biopsy.

18. Bedbug Infestation: Bedbugs can hide in clothes, leading to itchy bites. Diagnosis is through finding the bugs or their signs.

19. Flea Bites: Fleas can hide in clothes and cause itchy bites. Diagnosis is through finding the fleas or their bites.

20. Mite Infestation (Dermatophagoides): Mites can also cause skin reactions. This is typically diagnosed by skin scraping and microscopic examination.

21. Miliaria Rubra (Prickly Heat): This is a heat rash caused by blocked sweat ducts. It’s diagnosed visually.

22. Pityriasis Versicolor: A type of yeast causes this condition, which can thrive in warm, moist environments created by clothes. Diagnosis is by physical examination and KOH test.

23. Herpes Dermatitis: Herpes virus can cause skin sores that can be irritated by clothing. Diagnosis involves a viral culture or PCR test.

24. Diaper Rash: This is a type of irritant dermatitis in babies caused by wet or infrequently changed diapers. Diaper rash is diagnosed visually.

25. Drug Eruptions: Certain medications can cause skin reactions that are worsened by clothing. Diagnosis involves reviewing the patient’s medication history.

26. Nickel Allergy: Some people may react to nickel in clothing accessories. Diagnosis is by patch testing.

27. Polyester Allergy: A rare allergy where individuals react to polyester in clothes. Diagnosis is by patch testing.

28. Latex Allergy: Some people react to latex in clothes. Diagnosis is typically via skin prick test or blood test.

29. Textile Dermatitis: Some individuals have a specific allergy to textiles like wool or synthetic fibers. A patch test usually diagnoses this.

30. Formaldehyde Allergy: Some clothes are treated with formaldehyde, which can cause allergic reactions. Diagnosis is by patch testing.

Understanding the diagnosis and tests for clothing-induced dermatitis helps you be proactive about your skin health. If you suspect you have a skin condition related to your clothing, consult a healthcare provider to get the right diagnosis and treatment.

Treatment

1. Corticosteroids: Topical creams or ointments containing corticosteroids can reduce inflammation and itching.
2. Antihistamines: Over-the-counter or prescription antihistamines can help relieve itching and inflammation.
3. Moisturizers: Regular use of hypoallergenic moisturizers can soothe irritated skin and prevent dryness.
4. Cold Compresses: Applying cold compresses to the affected area can help relieve itching and swelling.
5. Calamine Lotion: This lotion can provide temporary relief from itching.
6. Topical Immunomodulators: Prescription creams like tacrolimus or pimecrolimus can treat inflammation.
7. Barrier Creams: These creams protect skin from irritants.
8. Phototherapy: Exposing the skin to specific types of light can reduce inflammation.
9. Avoid Irritant Fabrics: Choose clothing made from soft, breathable fabrics like cotton.
10. Choose Hypoallergenic Clothing: Avoid clothing labeled as “easy care” or “wrinkle-free,” as they often contain formaldehyde resins.
11. Wear Loose Clothing: Tight clothing can rub against and irritate your skin.
12. Wash New Clothing: Wash new clothing before wearing to remove any residual irritants.
13. Use Hypoallergenic Detergent: Choose detergents that are free from dyes and perfumes.
14. Double Rinse Clothes: Rinse clothes twice to ensure all detergent is removed.
15. Avoid Fabric Softeners: These can leave residue on clothing that can irritate your skin.
16. Avoid Dry Cleaning: Many dry cleaning chemicals are irritating to the skin.
17. Patch Testing: Identify specific allergens through patch testing with a dermatologist.
18. Cotton Liners: Wear cotton liners under irritating clothing.
19. Diet: Certain foods can increase inflammation in the body. Try to maintain a balanced, healthy diet.
20. Hydration: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from within.
21. Avoid Scratching: Scratching can worsen inflammation and can even cause infection.
22. Baking Soda Bath: Soak in a lukewarm bath with a half-cup of baking soda to relieve itching.
23. Oatmeal Bath: An oatmeal bath can also help soothe itching and irritation.
24. Aloe Vera: Apply aloe vera to the skin for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
25. Tea Tree Oil: This natural anti-inflammatory and antiseptic can help treat symptoms.
26. Coconut Oil: The natural fats in coconut oil can moisturize and soothe irritated skin.
27. Honey: Apply a thin layer of honey to help reduce inflammation and soothe skin.
28. Turmeric: The anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric can help treat dermatitis. It can be used topically or ingested.
29. Apple Cider Vinegar: Dilute apple cider vinegar with water and apply it to your skin to soothe irritation.
30. Medicinal Plants: Certain medicinal plants like chamomile and calendula can be applied topically to soothe irritated skin.

Medications

Effective drug treatments to help you manage and overcome clothing-induced dermatitis.

1. Hydrocortisone creams: These over-the-counter creams can help reduce itching and inflammation caused by dermatitis. Apply a small amount on the affected area to soothe your skin.
2. Antihistamines: Drugs like Benadryl or Zyrtec can be used to reduce allergic reactions. These medicines work by blocking histamine, a substance that your body releases during an allergic reaction.
3. Corticosteroid creams: Stronger than hydrocortisone, these prescription creams like Triamcinolone or Clobetasol can reduce inflammation and itching.
4. Calcineurin inhibitors: Drugs like Tacrolimus and Pimecrolimus are used when other treatments aren’t working. They suppress the activity of your immune system to reduce inflammation and skin reactions.
5. Emollients: These are moisturizers that soothe, smooth, and hydrate the skin, reducing dryness and itching. Examples include Cetaphil and Aveeno.
6. Topical calcineurin inhibitors (TCIs): These are non-steroidal medicines like Elidel (pimecrolimus) and Protopic (tacrolimus). They reduce inflammation and skin reactions by suppressing the immune system.
7. Topical Psoralen plus Ultraviolet A (PUVA): This treatment combines a drug called psoralen with ultraviolet light therapy. It can help treat severe cases of dermatitis.
8. Coal Tar: A thick, black liquid, coal tar can help reduce itching and inflammation. It can be found in certain shampoos and skin creams.
9. Antibiotics: If your skin becomes infected from scratching, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to kill bacteria.
10. Cyclosporine: In severe cases, this powerful medicine may be used. It suppresses the immune system to reduce inflammation and skin reactions.
11. Methotrexate: This drug, often used in severe cases of dermatitis, works by reducing the activity of the immune system.
12. Azathioprine: This is another strong drug used in severe cases to suppress the immune system, reducing inflammation and skin reactions.
13. Phototherapy: While not a drug, this treatment uses ultraviolet light to treat the skin. You may be given a drug to make your skin more sensitive to light.
14. Oral steroids: In extreme cases, drugs like Prednisone might be prescribed to reduce severe inflammation.
15. Dupilumab (Dupixent): This is a newer medicine used for severe eczema, a type of dermatitis. It works by blocking substances that cause inflammation.

Remember, clothing-induced dermatitis can be troublesome, but by implementing these treatments and making changes to your clothing and laundry habits, you can manage and even prevent this condition. Always consult with a healthcare provider or dermatologist for a personalized treatment plan.

References