Introduction

Skin rashes appear on the skin as scary looking red bumps which are painful and can make us feel uncomfortable and uneasy. Some changes such as redness, swelling, inflammation and pain are mostly associated with skin rash. Most of the time, these rashes are not alarming and pretty much go away on their own without any medical attention. However, for recovery skin rashes must be addressed promptly for instant relief from the pain and inflammation. The first line of action against these painful rashes is home remedies which are very effective in treating the awful rashes and alleviating the symptoms of pain.

Common Causes of Skin Rashes 

Allergies

One of the most common causes of skin rash is Allergies which include contact allergies with certain wood or metals,  food allergies to certain foods such as dairy products, or drug allergies such as antibiotics, penicillins,  cephalosporins etc.

Irritants 

Some irritants include exposure to chemical irritants such as specific soaps or detergents or physical irritants such as contact with a certain fabric of the clothes. Environmental Irritants include such as pollen and dust particles which upon inhalation can trigger rashes. 

Infections

Skin allergies can also be triggered by infections which include bacterial, viral, fungal and parasitic infections.

Bacterial Infection

Conditions like impetigo are caused by bacterial infections which can lead to skin rashes. Impetigo is highly contagious and is mostly found in infants and children.

Viral Infections

Conditions such as herpes and chicken pox can result in skin rash. These rashes are itchy and highly contagious upon contact with the infected individual.

Fungal Infections

Ringworm and athlete's foot causes fungal infections which are very painful and require instant symptomatic care and medications.

Parasitic Infections

Scabies which are due to parasites are extremely painful and itchy and needs to be treated with Scabicide for relief.

Types of Skin Rashes

Contact Dermatitis

Contact dermatitis is most frequently seen in individuals. Derma means skin and  “itis”  means inflammation, therefore it is skin inflammation due to direct contact with substances such as soap, cosmetics, lotions,  poisonous plants etc.

Eczema

Eczema is a dry scaly red rash, and inflamed blisters on the hand, ankles, arms, neck and eyelids. One of the most common symptoms of eczema is extreme itchiness, it may provide momentarily relief but this often worsens the conditions. The skin rash can range from minor to severe. The severity varies from person to person depending on the environment and genetics. Children are mostly affected by this and it may also appear in adults after their 20s onwards.¹

Hives

Hives are also called Urticaria. They are red bumps and patches on the skin due to allergies or an infection. They are characterized by extreme itchiness and are mostly relieved within one or two days. If they are longer than 1 week then you must contact a dermatologist. Hives are not contagious and mostly harmless which go away on their own.

Psoriasis

Psoriasis causes red swelling and inflammation along with an intense burning sensation in the affected place. Psoriasis symptoms include red patches on elbows, knees, back and palms with intense burns, along with dry cracked skin. The patches appear on the skin due to overactivity of the immune system which results in excessive production of skin cells and causing the problems. Psoriasis is non-contagious and mostly occurs in adults.

Impetigo

Impetigo is a highly infectious skin disease caused by bacterial infections, the bacterias Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes are responsible for this condition. Individuals most likely to be infected with impetigo are those who have weak immunity, live in unsanitary conditions and in warm and humid environments. They appear on the skin as honey coloured pus which is highly contagious and mostly affects children, however, they can also affect adults.

Common Home Remedies for Skin Rashes

Oatmeal Baths

Who knew oatmeal can be used as an ailment for skin rashes such as eczema? Oatmeal acts as an anti-inflammatory, it keeps the skin intact and fresh and also acts as a skin protectant as approved by the FDA. It is very safe and effective and can be used for children and adults. However, some may show allergic reactions to oatmeal as well so it is better to consult a dermatologist and perform skin patch tests.

Procedure

Blend the oats in a blender at the highest setting until they are fine powders, to check if they are in powders, dissolve some of the powder in a small amount of water. Now, when they are completely dissolved, take the required quantity of dried powder and add it to a drawn lukewarm water bath. Once it is fully dissolved, get in the water bath and sit for 10-15 minutes. Next, gently pat the affected parts and moisturize the areas within 3 minutes with prescribed lotions, this technique is called “lock and seal”² as it locks and seals the moisture and treats the dry red scaly skin. 

Aloe Vera

It is one of the most common home remedies used by many due to its easy availability and also because it is not expensive. Aloe vera has a very soothing effect on skin rashes and along with this, it has anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, antiviral and wound healing properties. It retains skin pH and also locks moisture. It can be used for the treatment of psoriasis and eczema. 

Procedure

The aloe Vera gel is simply applied to the affected area and it is gently rubbed. Repeat this for 2 days for better results.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil contains lauric acid³ which has antimicrobial activity against bacteria, fungi and parasites. It has antioxidant properties thus, it also improves the body’s immunity. It also acts as a moisturizer and can be used for rashes on skin. It has mild inflammatory properties.

Procedure

It is simply applied to the affected area and gently rubbed for a few minutes. A skin test must be performed since some people are allergic to coconut oil.

Cold Compresses

Cold compress is one of the oldest and most effective remedies for skin rash. It has numbing, anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. It can soothe the burning sensation and provide relief to the affected area. It is one of the safest approaches and does not require a skin test.

Procedure

Simply, wrap an ice cube in a cloth,  place the cloth on the affected area and gently press until you start to feel cold and ease. This helps in calming the flares and burning sensation associated with eczema and psoriasis and soothes the area.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider contains acetic acid which is effective against bacteria and fungi. It reduces inflammation, pain, redness and swelling. However, caution must be taken when using apple cider, since it contains acid it must not be applied onto the skin if there are cuts or bleeding for safety, it is better to dilute it first with water and check for any skin reaction or burns.

Procedure

After dilution of apple cider vinegar according to suitable choice, gently apply it to the affected area for treatment. Do not use it more than 2 times a day since it can damage the skin due to its acidic properties.

Baking Soda

Baking soda is also an amazing alternative for the treatment of skin rash due to its anti-itching and anti-inflammatory properties and it can relieve painful symptoms. It also has drying properties so it can also be used in fungal skin rash.

Procedure

The required amount of baking soda and water is used to make a paste. This paste can be applied on the skin for 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, baking soda baths can be drawn as well for the treatment purpose.

Honey

Honey has Flavonoids and Polyphenols⁴ which are antioxidants, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory. It also contains Hydrogen Peroxide which is antibacterial. Honey is obtained from natural resources and found to be very effective against all types of skin rashes eczema, psoriasis and hives. It provides soothing effects. However, some people are allergic to honey so it is advised to perform skin tests before direct application of honey to the skin.

Procedure

Gently apply a generous amount of honey on the affected area and massage for a few minutes then rinse with lukewarm water. Apply at least multiple times a week for treatment.

Preventive Measures

Avoiding Known Irritants and Allergens

It is better to get tested for all the possible allergens and protect yourself from contact with irritants. Wear gloves, mask and wash your hands to protect against possible microbes and dust.

Maintaining Proper Hygiene

Avoid crowded areas or make sure to take baths every day. It is advised to wear loose-fitting clothes since tight clothes can lead to sweating which is one of the main causes of skin rashes. Moisturize skin daily, this will keep the skin fresh and prevent it from drying.

Hydration and Diet Considerations

It's important to maintain a healthy diet, this way our body gets enough nutrients to fight against bacteria and other microorganisms. It improves our immunity results in fast recovery and also protects us from further diseases in future.

Summary

Skin rashes are the affected areas on the skin which are swollen, red, inflamed and painful. However, They can be easily treated and managed by the use of many home remedies without a need for a doctor prescription; but it is always advised to visit a doctor if the bumps do not go away in 3 weeks. Skin rash can occur due to many reasons which include allergic reactions, irritants, dust, metal, poison ivy, microbial infection etc. Skin rashes are further classified into eczema, psoriasis and impetigo. It can be easily treated with home remedies such as honey, oatmeal bath, cold compress, baking soda, aloe vera and coconut oil. These remedies are extremely helpful in treating skin rashes, since they are easily available, inexpensive and have fewer side effects.