ABSTRACT
The neck should be considered among the sites prone to contact dermatitis. Like the eyelids, the thin skin of the neck contributes to the sensitive nature of the region, making it vulnerable to a number of contact allergens. There are three primary categories that should be considered: scalp-applied contact allergens with run-off to the neck, aeroallergens, and directly applied contact allergens. In the setting of an aeroallergen-driven dermatitis, the neck may offer the greatest clue—a sharply demarcated cutoff at the shirt collar. Directly applied allergens to the neck can be subdivided into two basic types of contactants: personal care products, including cosmetics and sunscreen, and personal articles such as jewelry and clothing. According to a study on allergic contact dermatitis, the face and neck were the most commonly affected sites for patchy dermatitis secondary to exposure of acrylates in acrylic nails. Wooden necklaces made from exotic woods may also produce an allergic reaction.
