Self-Care for Skin Rashes
A rash is your skin’s reaction to a substance your body is sensitive to. Most rashes can be treated at home by keeping the skin clean and dry. But some rashes may be signs of a more serious problem. Call your doctor if you notice other symptoms with your rash, or if the rash is getting worse.
Common Causes of Rashes
Too much exposure to the sun
An allergic reaction to a food (shrimp), plant (poison ivy), or chemical (strong detergent)
An infection caused by a fungus (ringworm), virus (chickenpox), or bacteria (strep)
Bites or infestation due to insects or pests, such as ticks, lice, or mites
Control Itching and Skin Damage
Keep Your Skin Clean and Dry
Wash with mild, nonirritating soap and warm water.
Wear clothing that breathes, such as cotton shirts or canvas shoes.
If fluid is seeping from the rash, cover it loosely with clean gauze to absorb the discharge.
Many rashes are contagious. Prevent the rash from spreading to others by not sharing towels.
Use Medication
Take antihistamines to block your body’s reaction to the substance causing the rash.
Use hydrocortisone cream on small rashes to reduce swelling and redness.
Use antifungal medications to treat athlete’s foot and other fungal infections.
Check With Your Pharmacist If:
You have a red, itchy rash between the toes.
You have crusty sores that aren’t spreading.
You have an itchy, red ring about an inch wide (a sign of ringworm).
You see tiny, light-gray eggs on body hairs, lice on skin or clothing, bite marks, or small burrow marks under the skin.
Call 911 If:
Call Your Doctor If:
You have a temperature over 101.0°F.
You have a sore throat, a cough, or unusual fatigue.
You have an increasingly red, oozy, or painful rash (signs of infection).
You have a rash that covers your face, genitals, or most of your body.
You have crusty sores or red rings that begin to spread.
You have a red bull’s-eye rash with a white center (a sign of Lyme disease).