This article reviews what to do if you experience wedding ring rash.

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What Is Contact Dermatitis?

Contact dermatitis is a form ofeczema.

Woman touching the wedding ring on her finger nervously while having coffee and waiting in cafe.

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Contact dermatitis results from skin contact with an irritant substance or antigen.

Causes

Wedding ring rash can occur for different reasons.

Irritants

Irritants cause dermatitis by rubbing against the skin.

Irritants tend to affect people who have sensitive skin.

Allergies

Allergiesto some of the metals found in wedding rings are common.

Nickelandcobaltare two alloys that are known to cause an allergic reaction in some people.

Allergies can develop at any time.

Excessive Water Exposure

Occlusion dermatitisis an itchy rash because of excessive water exposure under the ring.

Moisture from washing your hands or from sweat creates an environment where constant dampness irritates the skin.

If the rash doesn’t go away, see a healthcare provider.

Summary

Wedding ring rash is a very common form of contact dermatitis.

Frequently Asked Questions

Wedding ring rash is a red and bumpy area under your skin.

You may have fluid-filled blisters in the area as well.

Mei Eng-Tu, et al.Multiple allergies to metal alloys.Dermatologica Sinica.

2011;29(2):41-43. doi:10.1016/j.dsi.2011.05.010

American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology.Contact dermatitis defined.

Zhai H, Maibach HI.Skin occlusion and irritant and allergic contact dermatitis: an overview.Contact Dermatitis.

2001;44(4):201-206. doi:10.1034/j.1600-0536.2001.044004201.x