How to Relieve Itchy and Irritated Skin Caused by Rashes

Being the largest organ in the body, your skin can go through many issues, from dry skin to pimples to rashes. Rashes can happen for various reasons, from topical irritation to an underlying medical condition. If you're dealing with itchy, irritated skin due to a rash, you may want to find reliable relief. When you consult with Applegarth Dermatology, you can benefit from the expertise of Dr. William Applegarth. He has been practicing dermatology for several years and can provide the relief from rashes in La Porte, and Valparaiso, IN, that you need.

What Is a Rash?

Rashes come in many forms on your skin. It can be any patch of irritated or swollen skin. It may sometimes appear as tiny bumps or inflamed patches of skin. A rash often appears in different colors and textures on various skin tones. You may get a rash because of a bug bite, such as one from ticks, due to Lyme disease. Rashes may be part of autoimmune flare-ups related to lupus or rosacea.

How Can You Relieve Rashes in La Porte, and Valparaiso, IN?

The best way to relieve a rash can be related to its cause. You can often find immediate, soothing relief when you use an oatmeal bath since oatmeal is anti-inflammatory and known for relieving itchiness and dryness. A cold compress with a wet cough or ice pack applied for 5 to 10 minutes can also reduce inflammation. Oils such as coconut oil, are essential for keeping the skin moisturized and reducing dryness. The anti-microbial properties of tea tree oil can also help relieve itching. Something as simple as baking soda can be applied when you mix it with water to create a paste.

Can a Dermatologist Help?

Dr. Applegarth is your local skin doctor who can prescribe various treatments that can help soothe your rash and help it fade away over time. If your rash spreads or appears suddenly in what appears to be an allergic reaction to food or medication, contact his office for immediate care. 

When you visit his office for a consultation, he will conduct a skin examination and run other tests that can help diagnose the cause of the rash. He may prescribe antihistamine medication or corticosteroid treatment. If the rash is the result of a bigger problem, like autoimmune issues, he will use his expertise to find the trigger to help reduce ongoing flare-ups.

Dr. Applegarth is your skin expert at Applegarth Dermatology. Call (219) 548-0360 for our Valparaiso office or (219) 362-0161 for our La Porte office.