Eczema and Contact Dermatitis
The terms eczema and dermatitis are often used synonymously to mean an inflammation of the skin caused by the abnormal production of cells in the upper layers of the epidermis, or top layers of the skin. The cells may be loose and thin or thick, often accompanied by weeping. The rash formed can be itchy and irritating while fissures or splits may appear. Normally it is caused by direct contact with an irritant or allergen, or exposure to a material to which you are allergic or hypersensitive. Some common allergens include;
- Oxidising chemicals
- Detergents, solvents or highly alkaline solutions
- Poison ivy, poison oak, poison sumac
- Nickel or other metals
- Medications
- Cosmetics
- Rubber
- Fragrances and perfumes
- Soap, shampoos and hair dyes rich in alcohol
Some common symptoms are:
- Itching
- Inflammation
- Swelling
- Tenderness
- Lesions or cuts
- Rashes
- Redness
- Site may raw, scaly or thick
- Area may drain or ooze
Dye Dermatitis:
Dye dermatitis is a specific type of contact dermatitis which is an allergic reaction to permanent hair dye. It can occur in people who have used a product repeatedly as well as people who are using a product for the first time. The severity of the allergic reaction can vary from a mild irritation and itching to intense symptoms such as burning, blistering and swelling. In one extreme and very rare case a 38-year-old woman suffered an anaphylactic shock shortly after changing her hair dye. At first she developed a non-specific allergy causing scalp itching after using her old hair dye for a while. She changed the dye, but anaphylactic shock developed and she died within an hour after applying it.
Since the risk of sensitization rises with the frequency of contact, it is essential that a patch test is performed every time the dye is used. If you are using a product for the first time a minimum of 10 days is required before you develop a specific sensitivity. For second and subsequent exposures 6-72 hours is enough.
If you developed an allergic reaction and a patch test was not performed prior to the colouring process you may be entitled to compensation towards any extra medical or hair treatments that you required to remedy the problem.
To receive advice and help for your situation call Free phone 0800 652 4321 or 01642 25 28 28. Alternatively, visit the website at www.mackssolicitors.co.uk and complete the online compensation claim form. Macks Solicitors will be happy to give you free expert advice on making a compensation claim for the extra expenses and for your emotional and physical injuries. Making a claim through Macks Solicitors will not cost you anything and you will get to keep 100% of any compensation you are awarded.