Africa is the second largest continent in the world, with a population of under two billion people across five major regions, each characterized by varied geographical conditions and diverse sociocultural practices. This diversity significantly influences the pattern of dermatoses affecting the population. The environmental impact on skin diseases, particularly contact dermatitis (CD), has been well documented. CD affects individuals of all ages, with a higher prevalence among the working population due to occupational exposure. The prevalence of CD in Africa is uncertain due to a paucity of published data, but estimates range from 4.26% to 41%. Most dermatologists on the continent are in urban centers, making the diagnosis of CD reliant on detailed history-taking and clinical examination, often after multiple consultations. Sociocultural practices and norms also dictate the causes and sites of CD in the continent. Patch testing with allergens, primarily from the European Hermal (Baseline) Series or North American Series, is sometimes employed, although it is not widespread due to cost concerns in the largely low socioeconomic countries. Nickel, resins and dyes, cobalt, and fragrance mix are the most common allergens across the continent. Local allergen panels have yet to be developed in African countries to reflect naturally occurring allergens in the environment. In some cases of contact dermatitis, repeat open application tests with patients’ products are used.