Skin rashes can be irritating and uncomfortable. Itching and scratching can make it difficult to think about anything else. Your dermatologist can help eliminate the rash, so you can feel better. The Dermatologists of The Dermatology Center at Ladera in Ladera Ranch, CA, provide a wide range of medical and cosmetic dermatology services, including the treatment of skin rashes.

What You Need to Know about Skin Rashes 

There are several types of skin rashes, caused by several different factors including:

• Environmental exposure to cold, heat, or humidity
• Allergies to plants, flowers, and pollens
• Medication-related rashes caused by some antibiotics
• Contact dermatitis is caused by chemical exposure to your skin
• Eczema often develops in folds of skin, on your torso, behind your knees, or on your neck and face

For a mild, occasional rash, you can try a few simple home treatments, including over-the-counter products like these:

• Anti-itch sprays, creams, or lotions
• Oatmeal baths like Aveeno
• Topical and oral antihistamine medications

So, when should you visit your dermatologist for a rash? You should seek out professional treatment for a moderate to severe rash which doesn’t resolve, or if the rash is:

• Becoming worse
• Spreading to other areas of your body
• Accompanied by additional symptoms, including fever, swelling, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, body aches, and problems swallowing

Your dermatologist offers several effective treatments to eliminate itching and clear up your rash. Your dermatologist may recommend:

• Prescription-strength oral and topical antihistamine medications to relieve itching
• Steroid medications to reduce inflammation and swelling
• Lotions or creams containing antibiotics or cortisone to eliminate infection and swelling
• Laser therapy to eliminate scaly patches caused by psoriasis, eczema, and other chronic skin conditions

Developing a skin rash suddenly can also be a sign of a severe allergic response, which can be life-threatening. If you develop a skin rash accompanied by difficulty swallowing or breathing, call emergency services immediately.

Want to Learn More?

To find out more about skin rashes and skin rash treatment, call the dermatologists at The Dermatology Center at Ladera in Ladera Ranch, CA. You can reach them in the office by calling (949) 364-8411, so call today.