November is National Healthy Skin Month, and there’s no better time to start paying more attention to your skin. One of the most common skin concerns that affect people worldwide is skin rashes. While typical rashes develop due to irritation and go away on their own, it may not be as easy to tell them apart from serious skin conditions. Here is what you need to know about the five most common causes for those red patches or bumps you might find on your skin.
Top 5 Reasons for Skin Rashes
1. Contact Dermatitis
Dermatitis or skin inflammation produced by contact with an allergen or irritant causes a red, itchy rash. Although it is not infectious, the rash may still be unpleasant. Cosmetics, perfumes, certain metals, and poisonous plants might trigger an allergic response if you come into contact with them. It can be tricky to identify the source of the reaction in this case, as rashes often appear a few days after exposure.
2. Eczema
Dry, itchy rashes are common in people with atopic dermatitis (eczema). Most cases of eczema occur as flare-ups that may be found in folds of skin, such as the inner elbow, the back of the knee, and the neck. While eczema often affects younger people, it can happen at any age. There is no known cure for this condition; however, it may be treated with various topical creams or corticosteroids.
3. Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a skin condition characterized by scaly, red patches that often appear on the torso, scalp, knees, and elbows. In spite of its prevalence, unfortunately, psoriasis is a condition that has no proven cure. However, you can manage symptoms through treatments at the dermatologist’s office, such as laser light therapy.
4. Sun Sensitivity
While prolonged sun exposure is not advisable for anyone due to the harmful effects of sun damage, some people may be more vulnerable to it. In those who are already sensitive to sunlight, UV exposure might result in a rash known as polymorphous light eruption. The rash often manifests as a series of small, red breakouts or slightly elevated bumps on the skin.
5. Rosacea
Sometimes, what may be mistaken for skin rashes is actually a condition called rosacea. Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that manifests itself like “flushed” skin. Typically, it occurs on the nose and cheeks. Although rosacea flare-ups are usually controllable, there are warning signals to watch out for if your condition is becoming worse, such as:
- Swollen, noticeable blood vessels on the face
- Redness, burning, or itching in the eyes
To receive proper diagnosis and treatment for any type of rash anywhere on your skin, consult with your doctor or an experienced board-certified dermatologist.
Explore Treatment for Skin Rashes in Miami Beach, FL
Greater Miami Skin and Laser Center specializes in treating cosmetic, medical, and pediatric skin conditions of all kinds. If you have rashes that suddenly come up out of nowhere, come in for a consultation with one of the board-certified dermatologists and medical providers at the Miami Beach office.
Schedule a consultation today by calling (305) 532-4478.
