Health and Safety Executive

This website uses non-intrusive cookies to improve your user experience. You can visit our cookie privacy page for more information.

Social media

Javascript is required to use HSE website social media functionality.

Types of skin diseases - Contact urticaria (immediate contact reactions)

The skin contact with an irritant results in itchy rash within minutes to an hour. They disappear within twenty-four hours, usually within a few hours. Contact urticaria is also known as nettle rash or hives. It is typified by the wheal (swellings) and flare at the site of contact. The affected person may suffer from itching, tingling or burning sensations.

There are other types of urticaria. This includes immune sensitised reaction and happens in people who have previously become sensitised to a causative agent (eg latex protein in rubber gloves). This type of reaction is also called ACD.

Social media

Javascript is required to use HSE website social media functionality.

Updated 2010-05-02