Dyshidrotic eczema and contact dermatitis can both result in itchy, irritated skin. However, dyshidrotic eczema has distinct features and is more limited in the parts of the body it affects.

Even with an extensive skin care routine, your skin can become inflamed and irritated.

Itchy and irritated skin may be due to many conditions, including dyshidrotic eczema and contact dermatitis. Identifying the exact condition and underlying cause of your skin irritation can help you determine the best treatments and measures to prevent future skin issues.

You may be able to tell whether you have dyshidrotic eczema or contact dermatitis based on its location. Dyshidrotic eczema typically happens as small blisters on your palms or the soles of your feet, while contact dermatitis can appear anywhere on your body.

Dyshidrotic eczema is also known as pompholyx (the ancient Greek word for “bubble”), foot-and-hand eczema, palmoplantar eczema, and vesicular eczema. It typically occurs on the hands, feet, fingers, or toes.

Dyshidrotic eczema is usually identified by small blisters that often last 2 to 3 weeks. It may resemble athlete’s foot or hand, foot, and mouth disease.

Both genetic and environmental factors may cause dyshidrotic eczema. Hot, humid weather and contact with metals like nickel are some examples of what may lead to dyshidrotic eczema.

Flares can also be related to seasonal allergies, sweaty palms or feet, and stress.

Learn more about the different types of eczema.

Contact dermatitis occurs after you come into contact with any substance that irritates your skin and causes a reaction.

Unlike some forms of eczema, it is not related to hay fever or asthma. Two types of contact dermatitis are:

  • irritant contact dermatitis
  • allergic contact dermatitis

For 80% of people who experience contact dermatitis, it’s caused by irritants. It happens when skin is damaged by exposure to soaps, dyes, wool, or other irritating substances.

With irritant contact dermatitis, the source is usually fairly easy to determine since pain and discomfort can start within minutes of contact with the irritating substance.

Symptoms of allergic contact dermatitis typically occur a day or two after exposure to an allergen like a metal or poison ivy. In these cases, an inflammatory reaction may cause an itchy, scaly rash.

Both types of contact dermatitis may cause your skin to become itchy, crusty, or scaly. In severe cases, lesions or blisters can occur.

At times, it may resemble psoriasis.

There are similarities and differences that may help you tell the difference between these two conditions.

Dyshidrotic eczema is typically confined to the hands and feet. It generally includes small, itchy blisters on your palms, fingers, toes, or the soles of your feet.

Contact dermatitis can appear in many locations across your body and may not include blisters.

Identifying the cause of your irritated skin can also help you figure out which condition you might have.

Both dyshidrotic eczema and contact dermatitis may flare up when you come into contact with allergens and irritants. But dyshidrotic eczema can also be related to a wide range of other factors, including weather and stress.

A visual exam of your skin and a review of your medical history is often enough for a doctor to diagnose dyshidrotic eczema or contact dermatitis.

Allergy testing may be needed to confirm if any specific allergens are contributing to your flares.

Treatment for dyshidrotic eczema may include:

  • light therapy
  • topical steroid creams and steroid pills
  • draining large blisters
  • moisturizers
  • antibiotics if infections develop
  • hydrocortisone cream
  • oral or injectable corticosteroids
  • allergy testing to help with avoiding triggers
  • antihistamines or other allergy treatments

It’s important to contact a doctor if you:

  • have a skin rash that is severe or spreads
  • experience frequent or persistent skin rashes
  • notice signs of an infection such as fever or pus

You should also reach out to a healthcare professional if you believe allergens are contributing to your symptoms and would like allergy testing.

Both dyshidrotic eczema and contact dermatitis can leave you with irritated and itchy skin. But dyshidrotic eczema is typically limited to the hands and feet, while contact dermatitis can affect other parts of the body.

The causes of dyshidrotic eczema are varied but contact dermatitis is related to skin contact with allergens or irritants.

It’s important to contact your doctor if you have a skin rash that is severe, spreads, or becomes infected. If you experience frequent skin irritations, you may wish to talk with a doctor about allergy testing.