Rashes can be a catch all term used to describe just about any skin condition including all of the previously mentioned. Most often dermatologists will refer to what is called allergic contact rashes. They are the result of an allergic reaction to coming in contact with something. It can also be called contact dermatitis. The term eczema is also sometimes used. The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS) says contact eczema is a localized reaction that includes redness, itching, and burning where the skin has come into contact with an allergen or with an irritant such as an acid, a cleaning agent, or other chemical. Allergic contact eczema is a red, itchy, weepy reaction where the skin has come into contact with a substance that the immune system recognizes as foreign, such as poison ivy or certain preservatives in creams and lotions.

Some of the common causes, according to AAD include:

• nickel, which is in a number of metal products including chrome
• rubber, particularly latex
• hair dyes
• perfumes and other fragrances
• various preservatives
• plants such as poison ivy, oak or sumac