Common Rashes

Everyone from children to adults is plagued with common rashes from time to time. Although our skin is resilient, it can also be sensitive and easily affected by changes in the environment, our diet, chemicals and cosmetics. Fortunately, although they can be itchy, uncomfortable or even painful, most rashes are harmless and can be treated with an over the counter medication or homeopathic remedy.

Eczema is a common rash usually caused by allergies or genetics.

Any common redness or disruption in the skin that isn’t acne falls under the general name “dermatitis,” simply meaning an inflammation of the skin. They are also sometimes known as skin lesions, Rubor or Erythema.

Beyond childhood rashes such as diaper rash and chicken pox, the most frequently seen rashes include:

• Contact Rashes
• Hives
• Eczema
• Fungal Rashes
• Viral Rashes

Most often caused by exposure to either natural or chemical irritants such as ingredients in dyes, latex or cosmetics, the rash will present itself as red, raised bumps or patches with a crusty surface. Even if it is poison ivy or oak, you can still treat it easily with hydrocortisone. If the discomfort persists, your doctor can provide a prescription cream. When the rash is chemically induced, you should pay attention to its possible cause so that you know how to avoid it in future.

Hives are the result of an allergic reaction, most commonly to a food, medication or irritant. They appear as either raised or indented welts. They can be one of the more frustrating common rashes, because, although they will rise suddenly, it can be difficult to pinpoint their exact cause. Furthermore, they often go away within ten minutes, so you can rarely show them to a doctor. Hives spread quickly and often itch. Benadryl, taken internally or applied topically, will provide the quickest comfort.

While eczema cannot as yet be cured, it can usually be easily managed. Caused by either genetics or allergies, it presents itself as anything from flat, dry, white patches to red, irritated, raised patches. Eczema treatment can vary. Milder cases are typically treated with cortisone, although many people prefer natural treatments such as vitamin E cream and regular oatmeal baths. People with eczema should use the strongest lotions they can find, as keeping the skin moisturized helps control the rash.

The most common rashes in the fungal category are jock itch and yeast infection. They will present as red and itchy skin in the genital area. They are usually caused by poor cleansing or tight clothing that doesn’t allow the skin to breathe, but can also be brought about by an imbalanced diet or antibiotics. Increasingly, sufferers are turning to natural treatments of fungal rashes. Yeast infections can be treated cheaply and quickly with whole garlic cloves, acidophilus or an apple cider vinegar douche. Jock itch responds to an increase of garlic in the diet and topical treatments of tea tree oil or honey.

Common rashes caused by viruses are chicken pox and shingles. While related, chicken pox is usually suffered in childhood, while shingles affects adults. Both are characterized by red and itchy blisters. Chicken pox first shows up on the face and then spreads downwards, whereas shingles will be more localized. Shingles will also often be far more painful and may need prompt medical attention. Fortunately, both viruses run their course between ten days and two weeks. It is very important not to scratch, as this will worsen the discomfort and usually lead to scarring, sometimes severe. Topical hydrocortisone or antihistamine will help, as will Calomine lotion, warm compresses and cool baths.

Any rash that persists longer than a few days with marked discomfort should be seen by a doctor. It may still be nothing to worry about, but since some rashes can be the sign of a bigger problem, it’s worth the trip to the doctor to be sure.

• How to Do a Pedicure
• Homemade Acne Treatments
• Black Nail Designs
• Acne Myths Quiz
• Nail Care Quiz

• Pictures of Skin Rashes
• Skin Rashes
• Gel Nails Acrylic Nails
• Pictures of Skin Disorders
• Pictures of Simple Nail Art

• How Do You Treat a Rash
• Cause of a Skin Rash
• Skin Rashes and HIV
• Treating Bruises
• Meaning of Moles on the Face