What Are Common Skin Allergies?

LunarFathom Updated: 2025-10-27

Eczema

Eczema is an inflammatory skin condition that causes red, itchy patches on the skin. It is often first noticed during childhood, but can appear at any age.
Eczema can cause intense itching and peeling of the skin, along with small blisters containing clear fluid, as well as rashes.
A doctor can diagnose eczema by talking about your symptoms and inspecting your skin. They may also do a patch test to identify what is causing your eczema or may suggest allergy testing (prick test).

Contact dermatitis

Contact dermatitis is a red, itchy rash that develops after the skin has been exposed to an allergen (which the body is allergic to) or irritant (something that causes irritation). The rash may appear minutes, hours, or days after contact.
Your doctor can identify the source of your rash by looking at its location and pattern. Poison sumac typically features a pattern of tiny lines and stripes where the plants have come into contact with the skin.
The good news is that most cases of contact dermatitis can be treated or prevented. For example, wearing long shirts and pants while hiking in the woods or wearing protective glasses when working with irritants will reduce your chance of developing this condition.

Urticaria

Hives, also known as hives, are red, itchy bumps that can appear anywhere on the body due to an allergic reaction to foods, medications, or skin conditions.
These bumps usually disappear within 24 hours but may remain visible for days or weeks. Sometimes several bumps join together to form larger areas known as plaques.
Chronic hives can persist for months and even years. To treat them, doctors often prescribe antihistamines or other medications.
Avoid scratching if possible; Excessive scratching can cause painful swelling in the area known as angioedema.

Angioedema

Angioedema is a skin disorder that causes swelling and itching of the face, hands, or feet. It may also cause a rash or blisters.
This condition can be caused by various causes, such as allergies, medications, infections and certain diseases. It can even be hereditary.
The most prevalent type is allergic angioedema. This occurs when your immune system overreacts and releases histamine into your bloodstream.
Antihistamines can help combat bloating by blocking the effects of histamine.