Educational Content: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.

Definition of Irritant contact dermatitis

Medically reviewed by Dr. Otari Nergadze, Neurosurgeon | Updated: January 2026

Irritant contact dermatitis: A rash brought about by constant irritation from a substance. For example, anyone who washes their hands many times a day can develop "dish pan hands." Another example is in young children who lick their lips repeatedly, resulting in an irritant reaction to saliva.