Nickel contact dermatitis (eczema) is one of the most common allergic conditions affecting
the skin. This is a study looking at potentially desensitizing nickel-allergic patients to
their allergy using anti-inflammatory ointments applied to the skin (arm). Application of
these ointments (ie. modified Vitamin D) has been shown to increase specific immune cells (T
regulatory cells), which play a role in preventing immune activation and subsequently
inflammation. The investigators propose use of topical anti-inflammatory agents
(corticosteroids, modified Vitamin D, or both) may desensitize patients with nickel allergy.