A systematic approach to identifying what's causing your skin reaction — for good
Allergic contact dermatitis is a form of eczema caused by something coming into contact with your skin — fragrances, preservatives, metals, and thousands of other chemicals can trigger it. Without patch testing, identifying the culprit is often a guessing game.
Patch testing allows us to pinpoint exactly what you are allergic to. Once we know, we can remove specific allergens from your environment and routine — with the goal of curing your rash, not just treating it.
Dr. Innes will give you a personalized "safe list" of products that do not contain your identified allergens — so you can shop with confidence.
Also useful — it means your eczema is very likely not allergic in nature, and we'll pursue a different treatment path.
We patch test to contact allergens only — things that physically touch your skin. We do not test for food allergies, pet allergies, or environmental allergens (pollen, dust, mold). Those cause different types of reactions, not contact dermatitis.
Patch testing is generally a covered service. To confirm your coverage, call your insurance company and provide these codes:
Ask if patch testing is a covered service, whether you've met your deductible, and what your estimated out-of-pocket cost will be.
Preparing the patches is time- and labor-intensive for our nursing staff. If you need to cancel or reschedule, please let us know in advance. Text or call 801-776-7129.
Patch testing requires two office visits plus one at-home step in between. Plan your schedule around these three fixed days:
The most important rule: keep your back dry, still, and cool. Three things cause patches to detach:
Your back must stay completely dry the entire 48 hours. Options for bathing:
After the patches are removed Saturday, water may run over your back — but do not scrub or use soap on the patch sites.
Itching under the patches is expected and often means you're having a positive reaction — which is exactly what we're looking for. You may take antihistamines (Claritin, Zyrtec, Allegra, or Benadryl) to manage itch while the patches are on.
If itching becomes intolerable or you develop burning or pain under the patches, text Dr. Innes at 801-776-7129.
If you experience swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat or difficulty breathing, remove the patches from your back immediately and call 911. This type of systemic allergic reaction is extremely rare, but it requires immediate emergency care.
If a patch panel detaches, that portion of the test may need to be repeated — another round of patch placement. Only re-tape it if you are sure you are re-applying the squares exactly where they were before. Text us at 801-776-7129 and we'll advise you on next steps.
Text 801-776-7129 during business hours.
Text Dr. Innes directly: 801-414-8443
Remove patches immediately and call 911.