Dermatitis by topical creams

Keep an eye out for topical medications that can induce allergic contact dermatitis. A delayed allergic reaction…usually after repeated exposure to a topical allergen…causes this itchy, scaly, or oozy rash. We frequently think of scents, colors, or poison ivy as perpetrators, but topical medications can also be a factor. Keep in mind that problematic substances might appear in a variety of topical forms, such as dressings, eye or ear drops, powders, and so on. Antibiotics (bacitracin, neomycin, polymyxin B, etc) are the most common topical meds to cause allergic contact dermatitis. If you suspect a topical antibiotic is causing problems, consider whether it’s needed in the first place. For example, an emollient (petrolatum, etc) may be enough to protect minor cuts or abrasions.