Skin Care World

Dr Chris Steele replies...

Dermographism, means literally 'drawing/writing on the skin'. It is a type of extreme skin sensitivity, where the skin reacts to firm stroking or heavy touch to produce an area of redness or even itchy raised patches, known as wheals. It is often possible to write letters on the patient's skin using just pressure from the fingertips! This condition, also known as Dermographia, is a type of 'nettle-rash' reaction caused by pressure and is most common in fair-skinned people who have a tendency to allergic reactions. It is more common in patients with Atopic Eczema (see above).

Because it is an abnormal, allergic tyope of skin reaction, many patients can be helped by taking one of the non-sedating antihistamine tablets such as Neoclarityn, Xyzal or Zirtek, which can help prevent the skin reaction, so ask your GP. You might also find that applying Hydrocortisone cream helps stop the reaction, if applied as soon as the skin starts to react. This cream can be bought over the counter from your local pharmacy.