Allergic contact dermatitis is a skin condition that occurs when the skin comes into contact with a substance that triggers an allergic reaction. This can happen with everyday items like cosmetics, jewelry, or plants such as poison ivy. Symptoms often include redness, itching, and swelling in the affected area. When someone with this condition touches an allergen, their immune system mistakenly identifies it as harmful. This leads to inflammation and discomfort. Treatment usually involves avoiding the allergen and using creams or medications to relieve symptoms. Understanding and identifying triggers is key to managing allergic contact dermatitis effectively.