How to Identify & Treat that Itchy Red Rash
By Laura Dolgy (bio below)
Although there are many types of eczema, such as dry, weeping or scaly, most cases always end up being itchy and developing some sort of red rash. However, there are also several other skin conditions that can cause an itchy red rash. This week, we take a deeper look into what that rash can be and provide ideas for itchy red rash treatments that will have you feeling better before you know it!
Please keep in mind that although these treatments can relieve eczema, we are in no way medical professionals. If you’re experiencing severe eczema symptoms like fever or an infection, it is best to seek medical advice immediately.
So, you’re experiencing irritated, red and itchy skin, but you have NO idea what it can be. If you’re not already suffering from eczema, there are a few reasons WHY you might be developing an itchy red rash.
Eczema
Do you think you might be suffering from eczema, but you’re not sure where to turn? Eczema can have several symptoms including an itchy red rash, but there are also some eczema sufferers that experience thick, dry or oozing eczema. To learn more about different types of dermatitis, check out our blog post: How to Identify The Type of Dermatitis You Have.
Eczema is difficult (not impossible) to cure, but if you’re looking for immediate relief for itchy red rash treatments that are natural and comforting, make sure to check out these natural remedies for itchy, red, dry eczema.
Psoriasis
If you’re developing a rash that appears to be thick and flaky, then you might want to see your doctor for a possible psoriasis diagnosis. Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that results in thick, flaky skin that can be quite uncomfortable and possibly embarrassing.
To keep skin from flaking off, it’s best to opt for a natural, thick moisturizer that can improve the skin’s barrier. To help soothe extra flaky skin, try out this thick and soothing natural treatment: YoRo Naturals Organic Manuka Skin Soothing Cream. Not only does it help with keeping skin moisturized, but it also has anti-inflammatory properties as well!
For more itchy red rash treatments to specifically soothe psoriasis, check out these natural remedies for psoriasis.
Rosacea
If you’re experiencing constant red rashes on your nose, cheeks, forehead or chin, then you might be suffering from rosacea.
Although rosacea is a long-term skin condition that can be quite frustrating to control, there are many natural treatments out there that can decrease the symptoms associated with flare-ups such as redness and itchiness.
Bodyceuticals Organic Aloe Vera Skin Soothing Spray is great for rosacea, as it contains organic calendula flowers that are anti-inflammatory. Want an extra special treat? Pop this treatment into the fridge and spray it on your irritated skin for a super cooling effect.
For more treatments to relieve the redness and itchiness associated with rosacea, check out these natural remedies for rosacea.
Hives/Heat Rash
Another reason for a red itchy rash can be due to hives or heat rash. Hives are the body’s reaction to certain allergens, while heat rash is often produced by sweat glands becoming inflamed.
Hives can be a little difficult to treat, as normally they are caused by a certain internal or external allergen. If you think you might be suffering from hives and your doctor is not able to determine the cause, there are a variety of tests you can carry out to determine what might be the culprit.
Read More: Which Food Allergy Test Is Right For You?
Firstly, you can try an elimination diet, to figure out whether you might be reacting to certain foods. Of course, always make sure to consult your doctor before drastically changing your diet.
Alternatively, you can keep a health journal to determine what external factor might be causing your hives. A new pet, certain clothing materials or seasonal allergies can all affect the body.
On the other end, heat rash is a little more difficult to treat, but very easy to avoid. Make sure to keep sun exposure to a minimum and keep your sweat glands dry if possible. The best treatment for heat rash is time, as it might take a little while for the body to recover from heat exposure, yet it is possible to also get comfort with natural remedies like aloe vera. Again, using a cooling spray like Bodyceuticals’ Organic Aloe Vera Skin Soothing Spray can keep skin soothed while helping with inflammation.
Poison Ivy or Bug Bites
Before thinking about a chronic skin condition, ask yourself – have you recently been bitten or in contact with poison ivy? Both poison ivy and bug bite rashes can be easily mistaken for a more serious condition, but they are much easier to treat.
Contact & Textile Dermatitis
Contact dermatitis occurs when you are directly exposed to an allergen via the skin and then a topical reaction occurs, usually red and itchy. Although symptoms for contact dermatitis are quite similar to atopic dermatitis, this type of eczema can be cleared quickly by pinpointing what allergens are causing the reaction and eliminating them. Some of the more common allergens include, but are not limited too nickel, personal care products, pollen or even certain medications.
Something else that is quite common these days is an allergy to various textile materials. For an idea of textiles that can be causing your skin to react, check out our blog post: Your Guide to Textile Dermatitis: Latex Hypersensitivity & Polyester Allergy Explained
If you have already been diagnosed with eczema, psoriasis or rosacea but are not sure what might be causing the itchy red rash, check out our blog post on elimination diets. Many people with varying skin conditions have found much relief through this process by learning which foods trigger their flare-ups.
Got a rash you can’t figure out? Share with us in the comments below!
Bio: Laura is a contributor and content developer for It’s An Itchy Little World. She is in no way a medical professional. Her comments, suggestions, and reflections are not intended to replace any medical advice. Always seek the help of a medical professional before undertaking any diet or lifestyle changes. Please see It’s An Itchy Little World’s disclaimer for information about affiliate links and more.
Also, Check out some of our other great posts:
Natural Treatments for Eyelid Dermatitis
FROM: Allergies, Eczema, Seasonal Allergies
About 2 months ago I began having an itch on my neck and noticed my eyes were beginning to get swollen. Within two days I had a bumpy red rash all over my face that spread to my neck, chest and forearms. I put different types of cortisone and anti itch creams but really did not stop it. It eventually went away. THis morning I woke up again with a slightly red itchy neck which I feel is spreading again to my eyes. I have washed, dried with clean towels several times, and tried not to touch it. I have not eaten anything new, nor have I changed detergents, or soaps/cosmetics. Do not know what is causing this except maybe my dog is getting into something that is being transferred. Any help or suggestions.
HI Carol – Have you ruled out pollen allergies?
I just had surgery for an ovarian cyst removal, and have 5 tiny sites that are stitched up on my stomach. They were protected with the adhesive glue but that came off during the end of the second week. It wasn’t until the end of the 3rd week that they started getting itchy, and when I’d talk to others in my family who had stitches before they all told me thats normal. But about 5 days ago it started getting so itchy I feel like i could just scratch it off, it never stops feeling itchy. All the sites where I have stitches are red, but not painful to the touch, not any other color, and not swollen, but they now have tiny little bumps around them that have spread to my legs and upper groin area, and they are very itchy. I dont know what could have caused it. Since I use the same detergent and soaps, and didn’t eat or drink anything different. The rash doesn’t seem to be anywhere else on my body but legs, groin, and stomach. I haven’t tried to remedy it yet and was wondering if I need to go in to get it checked or if there moght be a home remedy?
Hi… Around 5 months ago I developed red spots raised Like hives that causing Severe itch rash on my Both lower legs. I have ruled out a ton of things in 5 months including going off several meds and now the rash has went away and came back three times. My doctor and I are at a loss for what is causing it. Please help!! I can’t take the itching anymore!
My neck,chest and face itch and are very red.on my face its just beside my nose and close to my eyes