Rashes

Heat rash can occur at any age and cause red skin with itchy and prickly sensations, as well as small skin bumps. Adults may develop heat rash between their inner thighs or under their arms, while babies often have them on their necks or skin folds found on the armpits, elbows, and thighs. Babies are more likely to develop heat rash because their pores are underdeveloped.

Cause

Heat rash affects children and adults in hot, humid weather, which causes skin pores to become blocked, preventing sweat from escaping. It can also develop where skin rubs against skin or clothing.

Prevention

• Don’t use thick creams and lotions that can clog your pores.
• During the warmer months, keep cool in an air-conditioned space.
• Avoid wearing tight clothing; wear light, breathable, and moisture-wicking fabrics to allow the skin to breathe and prevent the buildup of sweat.
• Avoid soaps that dry out your skin.

Home Remedies

• For instant relief, cool off then dry off and reduce any friction.
• Wear loose clothing and stay in air-conditioned areas.
• Bathe or shower using cool water and non-drying soap.
• Apply a cool compress to calm, itchy skin.

Treatment Options

• Calamine lotion
• Anhydrous lanolin
• Hydrocortisone cream
• Topical steroids

Also called atopic dermatitis, eczema is a common skin condition characterized by itchy and inflamed patches of dry, scaly red skin. It tends to flare up during colder months or when there is less moisture in the air. While it is often seen in babies and young children (usually on the faces of infants), eczema can come in a variety of types in children, teens, and adults.

Cause

The main cause of eczema is unknown, but it is believed that a combination of genetics, defects in the skin barrier, endocrine disorders, the environment, and an abnormal function of the immune system are involved. Those with eczema tend to have an overactive immune system that, when exposed to a particular irritant, responds by producing inflammation that causes the red and itchy skin symptoms.

Common triggers include:

• Synthetic fabrics
• Chemicals from detergents and cleaners
• Scratchy textiles, like wool
• Sweat
• Raised body temperature
• Changes in temperature/a sudden drop in humidity
• Food allergies
• Stress
• Upper respiratory infections
• Animal dander

Alternative Treatments and Lifestyle Changes

The best way to treat eczema is by avoiding its triggers. The following are habits you can practice at home to relieve stress and prevent flare-ups:

• Listening to relaxing music
• Meditation
• Yoga
• Getting a good night’s sleep
• Deep breathing exercises
• Drinking green tea
• Acupuncture
• Aromatherapy

Prevention

As mentioned, lifestyle changes can help avoid eczema triggers and can prevent flare-ups. Avoid rough fabrics, chemical irritants, strong soaps and fragrances, and detergents. You may also apply cream-based moisturizers to keep skin hydrated.

Treatment Options

OTC medications that work by blocking histamine (which triggers the allergic reactions) include:

• Cetirizine (Zyrtec)
• Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
• Fexofenadine (Allegra)
• Loratadine (Claritin)

Also known as urticaria, welts, or nettle rash, hives appear as a red, raised, and itchy skin rash that can sting or hurt. They are typically pink, red, or flesh-colored, and may be triggered by an allergen.

Cause

Hives occur when the body reacts to an allergen and releases histamine from under the surface of the skin. In other words, it’s an allergic reaction. Histamine and other chemicals will cause inflammation of the skin, causing the rash. Common Triggers:

• Foods such as nuts, milk, eggs, shellfish, and strawberries
• Pollen
• Pet dander
• Dust mites
• Medications such as antibiotics and ibuprofen
• Latex
• Insect bites
• Extreme changes in temperature
• High body temperature
• Sunlight exposure
• Scratching

Prevention

• Avoid irritants such as perfumes and soaps with fragrances, and stay out of the sun.
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing, and stay in cool areas.

Home Remedies

• Apply a cold compress to reduce inflammation.
• Bathe in a colloidal oatmeal or baking soda bath.
• Apply aloe vera, which has natural healing and anti-inflammatory properties.

Treatment Options

• Antihistamines
• Avoid hot water (only take cool or lukewarm baths)
• Avoid scratching the area