dermatitis
noun
or dermatitises
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Dermatitis usually appears as a rash, and may cause itching, blisters, swelling, and often scabbing and scaling. It often marks an allergic reaction of some kind. Contact dermatitis is caused by something (often a chemical) touching the skin. Atopic dermatitis usually affects the insides of the elbows, the backs of the knees, and the face; generally resulting from an inherited sensitivity, it's often triggered by inhaling something. Eczema, psoriasis, and dandruff are all forms of dermatitis. Even in the worst cases, dermatitis isn't infectious and doesn't produce serious health consequences.
Examples of dermatitis in a Sentence
Megan Cartwright, MSNBC Newsweek, 20 Aug. 2025
Celebrity esthetician Sadaf Jaffari notes that clinical and lab studies show turmeric offers anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial benefits, with promising effects on acne, psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and even photoaging.
—Iman Balagam, Vogue, 19 Aug. 2025
However, these blemishes are often a skin condition other than acne, such as folliculitis, boils, contact dermatitis, or keratosis pilaris.
—Sherri Gordon, Health, 14 Aug. 2025
Those with scalp eczema, psoriasis, or seborrheic dermatitis should check with a dermatologist before using formulas with strong stimulants.
—Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 7 Aug. 2025
See All Example Sentences for dermatitis
Cite this Entry
“Dermatitis.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dermatitis. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
dermatitis
noun
or dermatitises
Medical Definition
dermatitis
noun
called also dermitis
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