Once a diagnosis of Allergic Contact Dermatitis is suspected, a patch test should be performed. Dr. Lazić will provide a personalized consultation in which she decides what to test you for, and will schedule your patch test. With this type of allergy testing, Dr. Lazić can help determine what you are allergic to, so that you know what ingredients to avoid in products.
Patch testing is used to assess your skin’s reaction to a variety of substances with which you come in contact at home, at work, or during recreational activities. It involves applying a purified allergen to your skin to see if it causes an allergic reaction. Typically, 8 to 10 hypoallergenic stickers are placed on the back for about 48 hours, at which point they are removed and the back is marked with a surgical pen. Around 72-96 hours from application of the patches, results are analyzed. The back must remain dry throughout the testing process. There are no needles or “pricking” used in this form of allergy testing (note that patch testing is not the same as prick testing, which is a different type of allergy test used to diagnose hay fever or food allergies).
Once we’ve identified the causes of the allergic reaction, we provide you with the name of the ingredients, as well as any aliases that may be used by various manufacturers, so you know what to look for when shopping for new products. We also provide a customized list of products that are safe to use via the CAMP Program. We typically will schedule a follow up about 4-6 weeks after the patch test to ensure that your skin condition has improved or resolved with allergen avoidance. With patch testing, we can potentially provide a cure for your skin condition, rather than just managing it long term with creams and other medications.
Irritant Contact Dermatitis (ICD) is a skin irritation that occurs shortly after (within minutes or hours) contact with a substance (for example- harsh skin care products, soaps, household cleaners). The main symptom is burning, stinging or pain.
Allergic Contact Dermatitis (ACD) is a rash caused by an allergic reaction to a chemical that touches your skin. The rash typically develops days after contact with an allergen, not immediately, which makes it difficult to trace the source. Common contact allergens include ingredients in cosmetics (e.g. fragrances, preservatives), rubber, metals (most commonly nickel), plants or dyes.
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