Medical Dermatology
Contact Dermatitis Patch Testing
A safe, reliable way to find out which substances are causing an allergic skin reaction.
At a glance
- What it finds
- The cause of allergic contact dermatitis — an itchy skin reaction to something you touched or a product applied to the skin.
- How it works
- Patches with small amounts of common allergens are placed on your back.
- Number of visits
- 3 visits total: application of the patches, removal of the patches 48 hours later, followed by a final reading after 48 more hours.
- What you get
- A list of the products and ingredients you should avoid.
Unfamiliar word? See our glossary of skin care terms.
Allergic contact dermatitis is a skin reaction that happens when your skin touches, or comes in close contact with, a substance you are allergic to. The skin may become itchy, cracked, red and sore, and it may even bleed at times.
The substances that cause these reactions are called allergens. Allergens can be ingredients in personal care products, jewelry, cleaning supplies, hand soaps and even clothing.
How patch testing works
Patch testing is a safe, reliable and easy way to find the cause of contact dermatitis.
- Patches containing various allergens are applied to your skin, usually on your back.
- The patches stay in place for 48 hours. Then they are removed and a first reading is done.
- At your last follow-up appointment, 48 hours after the patches are removed, a final reading is done and we explain which allergens you reacted to.
This information helps you identify the products you should avoid.
Is Patch Testing right for you?
Every treatment plan at Pinnacle Dermatology starts with a conversation. Schedule a visit and our team will recommend the best options for your skin.