FAST ANSWER
Dermatitis is caused by a combination of a weakened skin barrier, irritation from external substances, and an overactive immune response. Common causes include contact with irritants, allergens, genetics, and environmental factors.
Dermatitis can feel confusing because it does not have a single clear cause. Instead, it develops when the skin becomes more vulnerable and reactive, which is a common characteristic of sensitive skin that is no longer able to protect itself from external stressors. This leads to inflammation, irritation, and recurring flare-ups.
If you understand what is causing your dermatitis, you can take better control of your skin and reduce symptoms over time.
If you would like a full overview of dermatitis, including symptoms, types, and treatment, see our complete dermatitis guide.
What Causes Dermatitis?
Dermatitis is usually the result of several factors working together.
The most common causes include:
• A weakened skin barrier
• Exposure to irritants
• Allergic reactions
• Genetic predisposition
• An overactive immune response
These factors increase sensitivity and make the skin more prone to inflammation.
Why We Became Interested In Dermatitis And Sensitive Skin
When I first began researching snail mucin and skin barrier repair, one thing quickly became clear. Many skin conditions that appear different on the surface often have one thing in common underneath: a damaged or weakened skin barrier.
Over the years, we have spoken with hundreds of people dealing with eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis and persistent skin irritation. Although the symptoms vary, many describe similar experiences. Their skin feels dry, reactive, uncomfortable and easily triggered by products or environmental factors.
This understanding has shaped the way we approach skincare at Bragan Skincare. Rather than focusing solely on symptoms, we focus on supporting the skin barrier and helping sensitive skin become more resilient over time.
1. A Weakened Skin Barrier
Your skin barrier is responsible for:
• Keeping moisture in
• Blocking irritants out
When this barrier is weakened:
• Moisture escapes more easily
• Skin becomes dry and fragile
• Irritants can penetrate the skin
This is one of the main reasons dermatitis develops.
2. Irritants
Irritant contact dermatitis is one of the most common forms.
It happens when the skin is exposed to substances that damage the barrier.
Common irritants include:
• Soaps and detergents
• Cleaning products
• Fragrance and alcohol-based skincare
• Frequent hand washing
If you suspect that your daily cleansing habits are stripping away more than just dirt, learning if overwashing can damage your skin barrier will help you adjust your routine to preserve your skin’s natural protective oils. Over time, repeated exposure can lead to inflammation and irritation.
To understand this type in more detail, see our guide on contact dermatitis.
3. Allergic Reactions
Allergic contact dermatitis occurs when the immune system reacts to a substance.
Common allergens include:
• Nickel (jewellery)
• Fragrance ingredients
• Preservatives in skincare
• Hair dyes
Even small exposure can trigger redness, itching, and swelling.
4. Genetics
Some people are naturally more prone to dermatitis.
If you have a family history of:
• Eczema
• Asthma
• Hay fever
Your skin may be more sensitive and reactive.
This is often linked to how well your skin barrier functions.
5. Overactive Immune Response
In dermatitis, the immune system can overreact to minor triggers.
This leads to:
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Itching
Even things that would not normally affect the skin can cause a flare-up.
Lorraine's Journey With Persistent Facial Dermatitis
The photographs below show Lorraine's experience with persistent facial dermatitis that was affecting both her skin and her confidence.
Like many people living with dermatitis, Lorraine had spent a long time searching for products that would calm her irritated skin without causing further discomfort. Redness, sensitivity and recurring flare-ups had become part of daily life.
After finding a gentle skincare routine that suited her sensitive skin, Lorraine began documenting her progress. Over time, she saw noticeable improvements and kindly agreed to share her experience to help others facing similar challenges.
Lorraine suffered with Perioral Dermatitis on her chin
Her story is a reminder that while every person's skin is different, patience, consistency and the right skincare routine can make a meaningful difference.
Causes vs Triggers: What’s the Difference?
It is important to understand the difference:
• Causes make your skin prone to dermatitis
• Triggers make symptoms worse
For example:
• A weak skin barrier = cause
• Harsh soap = trigger
To learn more about what worsens symptoms, see dermatitis symptoms and flare-ups.
Common Factors That Make Dermatitis Worse
While not root causes, these often worsen symptoms:
• Dry skin
• Weather changes
• Stress
• Allergens
• Harsh skincare products
Managing these factors helps reduce flare-ups.
| Trigger | How It May Affect Skin |
|---|---|
| Harsh soaps | Strip natural oils |
| Fragrance | May irritate sensitive skin |
| Cleaning products | Damage the skin barrier |
| Cold weather | Increases dryness |
| Stress | Can increase inflammation |
| Dust mites | May worsen flare-ups |
| Pollen | Can aggravate sensitive skin |
| Overwashing | Weakens barrier function |
Why People Trust Bragan Skincare
Over the years, we have worked with people facing many different forms of dermatitis, from persistent facial rashes and irritated skin to long-term flare-ups that affected confidence and everyday comfort. We know that dermatitis can be about much more than dry or inflamed skin. For many people, it affects how they feel about themselves, their social lives and their quality of life.
Lorraine's experience is just one of many customer stories we have documented over the years. These photographs show the journey of another young woman who struggled with a severe facial rash that affected her confidence and daily life. Like many people with dermatitis, she had tried numerous products before finding a routine that suited her sensitive skin.
At Bragan Skincare, our philosophy has always been centred around gentle skincare, realistic expectations and listening to real customer experiences. We understand that every person's skin is different and no single product works for everyone.
If you would like to explore more real customer experiences, you can view our full collection of customer stories, reviews and video testimonials here.
Contact Dermatitis on the hands
Gary's Experience With Contact Dermatitis On His Hands
The video below shows Gary's experience with dry, sore and irritated hands caused by constant exposure to cleaning products and repeated hand washing during his work as an external cleaning contractor.
Like many people who work in cleaning, maintenance and outdoor services, Gary's hands were exposed to water, detergents and environmental conditions every day. Over time, this left his skin feeling dry, uncomfortable and increasingly difficult to manage. The irritation affected both his comfort and his confidence.
After finding a skincare routine that focused on supporting the skin barrier and protecting sensitive skin, Gary began to notice improvements in the condition of his hands. He kindly agreed to share his experience to help others who may be struggling with similar symptoms of contact dermatitis.
Supporting the Skin Barrier
Because the skin barrier plays such a central role, strengthening it is key.
A strong barrier helps:
• Lock in moisture
• Protect against irritants
• Reduce sensitivity
For daily support, a gentle option like our Atopic Cream can help soothe irritation and support long-term skin repair.
For a full range of suitable products, explore our dermatitis treatment collection.
How to Manage Dermatitis Long-Term
Managing dermatitis is about consistency.
Focus on:
• Keeping skin hydrated
• Avoiding irritants and allergens
• Using gentle, fragrance-free products
• Supporting the skin barrier daily
To understand how to treat dermatitis effectively, see our dermatitis treatment guide.
Final Thoughts
Dermatitis is caused by a combination of internal and external factors that make the skin more sensitive and reactive.
While you cannot always control the cause, you can:
• Strengthen your skin barrier
• Reduce exposure to irritants
• Build a simple, consistent routine
Over time, this leads to calmer, healthier skin.
What We Have Learned From Thousands Of Customer Conversations
While every person's skin is different, several themes appear repeatedly when speaking with people affected by dermatitis:
-
Many people unknowingly use products that further weaken the skin barrier.
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Over-cleansing is more common than most realise.
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Fragrance is one of the most frequently reported irritants.
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Consistency often matters more than using multiple products.
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Improvement usually takes time rather than happening overnight.
Although experiences vary, these observations have remained remarkably consistent across the many customers we have supported over the years.
About The Author
Kieran Corley is the founder of Bragan Skincare, an Irish skincare company based in County Monaghan specialising in products for sensitive, eczema-prone, psoriasis-prone, and irritated skin.
Bragan Skincare began after Kieran noticed significant improvements in old scarring on his own skin while working with snails on his farm. That experience led to years of researching snail mucin, developing products, and working closely with people dealing with eczema, psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, scalp irritation, dryness, and reactive skin conditions.
Over the years, Kieran has spoken directly with hundreds of customers and families struggling with sensitive skin concerns, helping shape Bragan Skincare’s philosophy around gentle skincare, realistic expectations, and supporting the skin barrier without unnecessary irritation.
The articles on this website are based on product development experience, customer feedback, ongoing research, and years of working with people dealing with sensitive and easily irritated skin.
FAQs About Dermatitis Causes
What is the main cause of dermatitis?
Dermatitis is mainly caused by a weakened skin barrier combined with exposure to irritants, allergens, and an overactive immune response that leads to inflammation.
Is dermatitis caused by poor skin care?
Not directly, but harsh skincare, overwashing, or fragranced products can damage the skin barrier and trigger or worsen dermatitis symptoms.
Can stress cause dermatitis?
Stress does not directly cause dermatitis, but it can increase inflammation and make the skin more reactive, leading to flare-ups.
Is dermatitis genetic?
Yes, some people are genetically more prone to dermatitis, especially if they have a family history of eczema, asthma, or hay fever.
What triggers dermatitis flare-ups?
Common triggers include soaps, detergents, fragrance, alcohol-based products, cold weather, allergens, and anything that irritates a weakened skin barrier.
Our Goal
At Bragan Skincare, our goal has never been unrealistic promises or aggressive
skincare routines. Our focus has always been on creating gentle products designed
to support sensitive skin and help people feel more comfortable and confident in
everyday life.
Real People. Real Reviews. Real Results.
The reviews, photographs and video testimonials featured throughout our website come from genuine Bragan Skincare customers who have chosen to share their experiences.
While no skincare product works for every person, the vast majority of our customers report positive results. Because every skin type is unique, we always recommend carrying out a patch test before introducing any new skincare product into your routine.
