It is natural to want flawless skin. However, that is not possible to everyone because different people have different skin types. Many dermatologists have differed with the statement “a rash is a diagnosis”. This is because, in the real sense, a skin rash is not a diagnosis. Instead, it refers to the change in color of the skin that is associated with inflammation, itching, blisters, redness and some pain. Skin rash can affect the whole body or some parts of the body. In other words, a skin rash is a discoloration on the skin that changes the way the skin feels and looks.

Skin Rash Treatment

Treating a rash is easy when done under the supervision of a dermatologist. It is treated by administering medications such as antibiotics, antihistamines and applying creams. Where the rash does not clear even with the medication provided, it is advisable that you try natural products that might help and have no side effects. To begin with, here are a few steps you should take to handle a rash once it has developed.

1. Wash the Affected Area

Wash the affected area with soap and water sparingly.

2. Leave the Rash Alone

Once you have washed the area, leave it exposed as much as you can and do not scratch it at all.

3. Don’t Spread to Vulnerable Persons

If you have a skin rash, it is advisable that you stay away from children and pregnant women. This is because most viral rashes are contagious.

4. Relieve Itching

In order to keep the affected area from itching, do the following:

• Keep the itchy area moist and cool.
• Stay away from the sun as it might dry up and increase the itching.
• Avoid scratching as much as you can because this might just aggravate the itching.
• Use gentle soaps (avoid deodorant soaps). This is likely to cause more irritation on the already affected area.
• Wear quality cotton clothing and not synthetic fabrics.
• You’re also allowed to take breaks during the day for exercise and relaxation especially if your itching is caused by stress.

5. Try Certain Soothing Agents

The next thing you should do is try some soothing agents.

Item	Description
Olive Oil	This being one of the most powerful skin rash remedies, it is known to bring instant relief after application. Just apply some olive oil on the affected area.
Aloe Vera	Though there are ready products in the market that have aloe vera, it is better to use fresh pulp from an aloe Vera plant. Extract the pulp and apply 3-4 times a day for effective results.
Vitamin E and Cod Liver Oil	These are antioxidants that are found in cod liver oil. Consult with a doctor before using these substances.
Vitamin C	Ascorbic acid is another healing substance that clears skin rash. You should eat foods rich in vitamin C such as sweet potatoes, tomatoes, citrus fruits and broccoli.
Apple Cider Vinegar and Honey	Take one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar and honey three times a day or mix them together in a glass of water. Raw apple cider vinegar and raw honey are very effective in eliminating allergies.
Baking Powder and More	Applying baking powder, basil juice, mint juice and almond oil over an affected area clears the rash in no time. Just place cotton soaked in any of these substances on the rash, and then dry the area.
Oatmeal Bath	This is another skin rash treatment. Add one cup of uncooked oatmeal and leave for a few minutes. Later, take a bath without using any soap. Alternatively, You could also boil your oatmeal in water and use the water to bathe.

6. Take OTC medications

Nonprescription Medicines:

For nonprescription medicines for itching, you can use the following:

• Acetaminophen such as Tylenol
• Aspirin
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
• Ibuprofen such as Motrin an Advil
• Naproxen such as Aleve or Naprosyn

Anti-itch Lotions and Creams:

For a severe itch, apply 1% hydrocortisone cream four times a day until the itchiness is gone. Never apply the cream on a fungal rash as it worsens it.

Oral Antihistamine:

Though antihistamines are helpful, they cause drowsiness thus preventing you from doing your normal day to day activities. For this reason, you should not operate any equipment or drive when taking these drugs.

Skin Rash Prevention

To begin with, it is important that you avoid contact with substances that cause allergy if you are allergic to them. Other ways of preventing skin rash are as follows:

• Avoid bathing too much. This is because water and soap dry the skin of its essential oils that help trap moisture.
• Avoid rubbing your skin roughly with a towel.
• Lastly, avoid too much exposure to chemicals and substances that might irritate the skin. Soaps, alcohol, detergents and solvents are good examples of substances likely to irritate the skin.

Skin Rash Causes

In order to treat skin rash, it is vital to learn what has caused it. This is because it might be viral, fungal or bacterial. Once you have identified what your skin rash is all about, you can go ahead and treat it.

With skin rash being common, it is important to note there are three types of rashes; poison ivy, heat and eczema rash. There are other rashes that are caused by allergic reactions, hereditary factors and toxic substances. Rashes are supposed to clear within a few days. If a skin rash takes more than a week, it should be examined and treated by a doctor. Nonetheless, it can clear with home treatment.

When to See a Doctor

Below are symptoms that you should look out for to know whether to call a doctor:

• A rash that has lasted longer than two weeks
• Fever, feeling ill, severe rash becoming worse or signs of infection
• Symptoms happening more often