Rashes Q & A
What are rashes?
Rashes are areas of irritated or inflamed skin that may appear red, itchy, dry, bumpy, or scaly. In some cases, rashes can also cause swelling, blistering, or changes in skin color. While some rashes resolve on their own, others may persist or recur and require medical evaluation.
The double board-certified dermatologists at Pure Dermatology work with you to determine the cause of your rash and develop a targeted treatment plan tailored to your specific condition and skin type.
What causes rashes?
Rashes can develop for many different reasons. Exposure to substances such as cosmetics, dyes, fragrances, soaps, or plants like poison ivy or poison oak can cause short-term rashes that often resolve with appropriate treatment.
However, many underlying skin conditions can also cause rashes, including:
Eczema
Eczema is a chronic condition that causes red, itchy patches of skin. Also known as atopic dermatitis, eczema can appear anywhere on the body but most commonly develops on the face, arms, legs, and trunk.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that leads to thickened, scaly plaques on the skin. As an autoimmune disease, psoriasis is typically a lifelong condition that requires ongoing management.
Cellulitis
Cellulitis is a bacterial skin infection that causes redness, swelling, warmth, and pain. The affected skin may appear tight and shiny and often requires prompt treatment with antibiotics.
Shingles
Shingles is a painful rash that usually affects one side of the body. It is caused by reactivation of the virus that causes chickenpox and can lead to significant discomfort if left untreated.
Impetigo
Impetigo is a contagious bacterial skin infection that most commonly affects children. It typically appears as red sores or blisters that may ooze and form crusts.
Other common causes of rashes
Several other dermatologic conditions can present with areas of irritated or inflamed skin, including:
Rosacea
Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that primarily affects the face and can cause redness, flushing, and acne-like bumps.
Hives
Hives (urticaria) are raised, itchy welts that can appear suddenly and may move from one area of the body to another. They are often triggered by allergic reactions, infections, medications, or environmental factors.
Skin allergies
Allergic reactions to skincare products, cosmetics, fragrances, metals, or other substances can cause allergic contact dermatitis, a common cause of persistent rashes.
Vitiligo
Vitiligo is a chronic condition that causes the skin to lose pigment. It usually develops in patches and occurs when the body loses melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing pigment.
What are the treatments for rashes?
At Pure Dermatology, your dermatologist tailors treatment to the specific type of rash and its underlying cause. Your treatment plan also takes into account your skin type, medical history, and overall health.
After a comprehensive skin examination, your dermatology team may recommend treatments such as:
- Hydrocortisone creams
- Calamine lotion
- Oral or topical antibiotics
- Corticosteroids
- Light therapy
- Antihistamines
If you have a chronic condition such as eczema or psoriasis, your dermatologist will also help you identify potential triggers and develop strategies to help reduce future flare-ups.
If you have a persistent rash, a rash that keeps returning, or a rash that is difficult to diagnose, the dermatologists at Pure Dermatology in Austin and Kyle, Texas can help determine the cause and recommend effective treatment.
Call Pure Dermatology today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about rash diagnosis and treatment.
