Hi Jodi

Have you ever had this rash checked out?  How long does it last?

You would have to be seen by a doctor to figure out what is causing this reaction...it really could be anything including your suspicion that some sort of irritant or even an allergy might be the cause.

Here is some information about dermatitis from the Merck Medical Library"

"Irritant contact dermatitis, which accounts for 80% of all cases of contact dermatitis, occurs when a chemical substance causes direct damage to the skin; symptoms are more painful than itchy. Typical irritating substances are acids, alkalis (such as drain cleaners), solvents (such as acetone in nail polish remover), strong soaps, and plants (such as poinsettias and peppers). Some of these chemicals cause skin changes within a few minutes, whereas others require longer exposure."

They also say this about symptoms:  "Regardless of cause or type, contact dermatitis results in itching and a rash. The itching is usually severe, but the rash varies from a mild, short-lived redness to severe swelling and large blisters. Most commonly, the rash contains tiny blisters. The rash develops only in areas contacted by the substance."

You and your doctor will have to play detective to know what can be causing your rash.

Let us know what you find out.  And thank you for your question.