Skin rashes can often be identified through a visual examination by a dermatologist or other healthcare professional. In some cases, a skin biopsy or other test (e.g., blood test, urine test) may be necessary to determine the exact nature of a rash. Details from a medical history can also aid diagnosis.

Treatment options vary significantly depending on the type of rash. Some rashes clear on their own over time. Patients can take several steps to relieve symptoms associated with the rash until it clears. These include:

• Avoid scrubbing skin. This causes further irritation.
  
  
• Do not apply cosmetic lotions or ointments to a rash.
  
  
• Use minimal amounts of soap. Gentle cleansers are better.
  
  
• Use warm (not hot) water for cleaning.
  
  
• Pat dry. Rubbing with a towel will further irritate the skin.
  
  
• If possible, expose the affected area to the air. This will help speed healing.
  
  
• Use calamine lotion for rashes caused by poison ivy, oak or sumac.
  
  
• Use oatmeal baths to soothe itchiness.

Persistent rashes should be brought to the attention of a dermatologist or other healthcare professional. Some skin rashes may require special creams, medications or shampoos before the rash clears. Treatment options for various rashes include:

• Antibiotics. Topical or oral antibiotics may be used to treat skin rashes caused by underlying bacterial infections. The entire course of prescribed antibiotics should be taken, even if symptoms improve, to prevent recurrence.
  
  
• Antihistamines. Oral antihistamines block the release of histamines into the body. Histamines cause the symptoms – including some skin rashes – that occur during an allergic reaction or other immune system responses. Topical antihistamines can also help prevent the itching that may accompany some rashes. Older antihistamines used to cause drowsiness, but there are newer ones on the market that cause little or no drowsiness.
  
  

  

• Corticosteroid medications. These potent medications help lessen inflammation. However, they should be carefully used, as they can cause thin skin or rosacea. In most cases, a topical corticosteroid will be used. If the rash covers a large portion of the skin or is severe, a physician may prescribe corticosteroid pills or injections. A patient is usually tapered off the medication gradually over a two-week period to prevent the recurrence of the rash.
  
  
• Phototherapy. Some skin rashes – such as those resulting from psoriasis – can be treated by exposing the patient in controlled circumstances to ultraviolet light waves over a period of time.

Individuals with skin rashes should also consult a dermatologist when signs of infection (e.g., streaks of redness, swelling, tenderness) develop or when existing symptoms worsen.