A rash affects the skin, resulting in itching, redness, bumps, blisters, and other symptoms. It is important to identify the type of skin rash to determine the best course of treatment. The experienced providers at Newton Wellesley Dermatology Association in Wellesley, MA, can treat your rash and will develop a treatment plan based on your symptoms and the type of rash.

Identifying Different Types of Skin Rashes 

There are many different types of skin rashes. Depending on the type, a rash can be caused by irritants, allergens, bug bites, an infection, or an underlying medical condition. Some rashes, such as rosacea, do not have a known cause. 

Different types of rashes, as well as their causes and characteristics, include:  

Hives: Hives can be identified by itchy, red bumps or welts on the skin that typically last 24 hours or less. They can be caused by stress, an allergic reaction, an infection, or other factors. 

Eczema: Also called atopic dermatitis, eczema is caused by heredity and environmental factors. Symptoms include itchy, dry, red skin. Small bumps can sometimes form that ooze fluid if scratched open.

Psoriasis: The exact cause is unknown, but heredity, environmental factors, and the immune system are believed to play a role. Symptoms include itchy, red, scaly skin, usually on the elbows, scalp, or joints.

Rosacea: The cause of rosacea is unknown, but the rash is chronic and appears as facial redness. 

Contact dermatitis: Caused by an allergic reaction that results in itching, redness, burning, or blistering. The rash might not always appear immediately but develops several hours or days after contact. 

Shingles: Caused by the virus associated with chickenpox, shingles are identified by a stripe of blisters on one side of the body or face that eventually scab over.

Impetigo: Due to a bacterial infection, it is characterized by red sores and blisters that can spread to other areas. Other symptoms include crusting, oozing, soreness, and itchiness.

Heat Rash: Caused by blocked sweat glands that trap perspiration under the skin. Symptoms include blisters, deep red lumps, and itchiness. 

Skin Rash Treatments 

Some skin rashes will clear up within a few days with over-the-counter products. However, it is important to see a dermatologist for treatment if a skin rash is painful, persists for several days, forms blisters spreads to other areas, becomes infected, or is accompanied by a fever. Some rashes are symptoms of a more serious underlying condition, such as Lyme disease or skin cancer, so it is best to see a doctor to rule out such causes.

Many options are available for treating skin rashes. The right treatment depends on the type of rash, the cause, symptoms, and other factors. The skilled providers at our practice in Wellesley, MA, will identify the rash type, develop an appropriate treatment plan to alleviate symptoms, and clear up the rash. Treatments include: 

• Anti-itch ointments (e.g., hydrocortisone cream)
• Prescription medications 
• Antihistamines
• Laser therapy 
• Moisturizers 
• Oatmeal baths
• Steroids

If you have developed a rash, we can help. Call Newton Wellesley Dermatology Association in Wellesley, MA, at (781) 237-3500 to schedule an appointment with a provider for the treatment of any type of rash.