One of the major causes of dermatitis is certain chemical substances, which are also known as irritants. These irritants can reach inside the skin through blood stream. Apart from the chemical substances, more than 100 different plants have also been identified as potential causes of dermatitis. The plants are kinds of irritants and can cause dermatitis in susceptible people. In this case, the onset of dermatitis is usually acute and the symptoms are found about an hour or two after contact is made. Having external contacts with irritating chemicals is another cause of dermatitis. Most cases of industrial dermatitis that occur on the hands or forearms are caused due to external contacts. Another common cause behind the development of dermatitis is intake of certain drugs. The application of drugs like atropine, belladona, carbolic acid, iodine, mercury, penicillin, sulphonamides, sulphurs, tars, turpentine, etc. can sometimes cause dermatitis. Apart from these, the substances like hair dyes, bleaches, skin tonics, nail polish, perfume, wool, silk, nylon, floor-wax, various detergents, etc. can also cause dermatitis. The other common causes of dermatitis include lack of caution in diet, deficiency of vitamin A, pantothenic acid, nervous and emotional strains, etc. Dermatitis may flare-up in response to extreme humidity and temperature, as well. Degreasing agents like soaps can also cause dermatitis, if used too frequently over a short time. They can cause dryness, redness, fissuring and irritation of the skin and gradually cause dermatitis. Certain inhaled irritants like pollen or house dust mites; viral or bacterial infections; certain foods in people having food allergies; dry skin; weakness due to illnesses like cold or flu; changes in hormone levels; etc. are also some of the causes of dermatitis. Psychological stresses can provoke or aggravate dermatitis, as well, presumably by suppressing the normal immune mechanisms. |