A red, itchy rash after contact with a substance — soap, jewelry, a plant, a fragrance — can come from a simple irritant or a true allergy. Patch testing helps tell the difference, so your plan targets what's actually behind it.
Direct skin irritation from a substance — common with frequent hand-washing, harsh soaps, or chemicals. Doesn't involve the immune system.
A true allergic reaction that develops after repeated exposure to a specific substance, often appearing a day or two after contact.
Nickel is one of the most common contact allergens — found in jewelry, buttons, and belt buckles.
Found in many skincare, cosmetic, and household products.
Gloves, elastic, and adhesive bandages can all be sources.
Poison oak and similar plants are a common Valley & foothill trigger.
We talk through where the rash appears, what you're exposed to, and when it flares.
Small patches of common allergens are applied to your skin and worn for about 48 hours.
You return so we can read the reactions and identify your specific triggers.
We work with you on avoidance strategies and, when needed, treatment for the skin itself.
Patch testing looks for delayed allergic skin reactions to things you touch, using patches worn for about 48 hours. Skin prick testing looks for immediate reactions to inhaled or food allergens and is read within about 20 minutes.
Plan for at least two visits — one to apply the patches, and a follow-up a couple of days later to read the results.
In many cases, yes — bring the product or its ingredient list and we can talk through whether it can be included.
We work with most major plans — contact us to verify your coverage.
Book a visit and we'll work with you to identify your triggers and build a plan designed to help.