Are there alternative treatments for contact dermatitis?

Some common alternative treatments for contact dermatitis -- an itchy skin condition caused by a reaction to something you touch -- include preparations made with witch hazel and aloe vera. Both of these herbs are commonly used for other skin disorders. There is little scientific evidence that witch hazel and aloe vera will treat the symptoms of contact dermatitis, however. In fact, products containing aloe vera may actually cause contact dermatitis in some people.

There are some alternative treatments available to treat the symptoms of your contact dermatitis. To soothe your itching, place a cloth dampened with cool water or aluminum acetate on your rash. Or if your rash covers a large area, try soaking in a tub with colloidal oatmeal added to cool water.