Treating Your Rashes

A skin rash is one of the most common skin conditions your dermatologist treats. A skin rash can develop occasionally and go away without treatment. A skin rash can also stay around and become a chronic problem which needs treatment.

A skin rash can take on many forms, including:

  • Red, swollen bumps
  • Painful, pus-filled cysts
  • Diffuse, surface-level redness

A skin rash can also cover different parts of your body, including your face, neck, chest, back, shoulders, and legs.

Some examples of occasional rashes include:

  • Exposure to harsh chemicals, like alcohol
  • Exposure to an allergen, like certain foods
  • Environmental exposure, like poison ivy
  • Exposure to the elements, including wind, heat, and cold

These types of rashes may be treated with:

  • Antibiotics, if the rash has caused an infection
  • Cortisone cream, to reduce itching
  • Oral corticosteroids, to decrease redness, swelling, and itching
  • Aveeno or oatmeal baths, to reduce itching
  • Prescription antihistamines to decrease itching

If your rash becomes chronic, it could be a sign of:

  • Eczema
  • Psoriasis
  • Rosacea

For a chronic rash due to an underlying medical condition, your dermatologist may recommend the same treatments listed above, along with:

  • Laser light and heat therapy to fade away the rash
  • Topical creams to reduce the appearance of blemishes
  • Prescription medications to reduce breakouts

A skin rash is also associated with serious medical conditions like lupus erythematosus. For this reason, when you have a persistent rash, you should visit a skin specialist–your dermatologist. The dermatologist may want to order laboratory testing or take a small sample of tissue to be sent off for a biopsy.

Depending on the results, your dermatologist may refer you to another specialist for further evaluation and treatment, but it all begins with a visit to your dermatologist.

In addition to diagnosis and treatment of skin rashes, you should also visit your dermatologist for:

  • Acne breakouts
  • Early signs of aging
  • Moles and other skin growths

To learn more about different types of rashes and their treatments, talk with an expert. Call your dermatologist now.

Accessibility Toolbar