Rash

When your skin reacts to a substance your body is sensitive to, it can cause a rash. You can treat most rashes at home by keeping the skin clean and dry. Many rashes may get better on their own within 2 to 3 days. You may need medical attention if your rash itches, drains, or hurts, particularly if the rash is getting worse.

Treatments

How can I control itching and skin damage?

• Take soothing lukewarm baths in a colloidal oatmeal product. You can buy this at the drugstore.
• Do your best not to scratch. Clip fingernails short, especially in young children, to reduce skin damage if scratching does occur.
• Use moisturizing skin lotion instead of scratching your dry skin.
• Use sunscreen whenever going out into direct sun.
• Use only mild cleansing agents whenever possible.
• 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 washing your hands often before or after touching others with any skin rash.

Use medicine

• Antihistamines such as diphenhydramine can help control itching. But use with caution because they can make you drowsy.
• Using over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream on small rashes may help reduce swelling and itching
• Most over-the-counter antifungal medicines can treat athlete’s foot and many other fungal infections of the skin.