When your skin becomes red, itchy, or cracked because of what you touch at work, you might be dealing with occupational contact dermatitis, a skin condition triggered by substances encountered in the workplace. Also known as work-related dermatitis, it’s one of the most common job-related illnesses—especially in healthcare, cleaning, manufacturing, and construction. Unlike regular eczema, this isn’t just dry skin. It’s your body’s reaction to chemicals, metals, solvents, or even repeated water exposure over time.
This isn’t rare. Studies show up to 1 in 5 workers in high-risk jobs develop some form of skin irritation from their environment. The real problem? Many people ignore early signs—thinking it’s just a rash that will go away. But if you keep touching the trigger, it gets worse. chemical exposure, direct contact with irritants like detergents, acids, or latex is the usual culprit. For others, it’s allergens, substances like nickel, fragrances, or preservatives that trigger an immune response after repeated contact. Even gloves can cause it if they contain rubber accelerators or if sweat builds up inside them.
Your skin’s barrier is your first line of defense. When it breaks down—because of frequent handwashing, harsh cleaners, or dry air—you’re more vulnerable. That’s why nurses, mechanics, and kitchen staff are at higher risk. You don’t need to be handling dangerous chemicals to get this. Repeated exposure to water and soap, like in dishwashing or caregiving, can do the same damage over time. The good news? You can stop it before it becomes chronic. Protecting your skin isn’t just about creams—it’s about changing habits. Use barrier creams before shifts, choose cotton gloves under rubber ones, wash with gentle cleansers, and dry thoroughly. If your skin is reacting, don’t wait for it to get worse. Talk to your doctor or occupational health team. There are tests to find exactly what’s causing it, and simple changes can make a huge difference.
What you’ll find in the posts below are real stories and science-backed advice on how to manage skin reactions at work, what medications help, and how to avoid triggers that make things worse. From steroid creams like methylprednisolone to understanding how stress and dry skin feed into the cycle, these articles give you the tools to take control—before your job starts costing you more than just time.
Occupational contact dermatitis is a common work-related skin condition caused by exposure to irritants or allergens. Learn the risks, signs, and proven prevention strategies to protect your skin on the job.
