Are You Making a Bad Rash Worse? Break These Habits that Irritate Rashes

Last updated 11 months ago

Can’t stop scratching at itchy, inflamed skin? While a skin rash can be caused by a number of things—including infection, certain medications and autoimmune diseases—some of your personal habits may be making a bad rash worse. If you have a persistent or progressive rash, talk to your dermatologist about your treatment options and taking preventative steps to calm irritated skin.

Scrubbing Vigorously: Those who develop rashes may assume that the condition resulted from unclean or contaminated skin and will try to scrub their skin clean as a remedy. In actuality, scrubbing your skin can further irritate the underlying cause of your rash and increase tissue inflammation. In some cases, vigorously scrubbing or scratching your skin can cause the infection to spread and progress in severity. Instead of scrubbing your skin with soap, use gentle cleansers that will not irritate your skin further before patting, not rubbing, your skin dry. Avoid the urge to scratch as much as possible.
Applying Cosmetic Lotions or Ointments: Another common habit that tends to irritate skin rashes is using cosmetic lotions or ointments in an attempt to soothe the affected area. Rather than applying lotions or ointments as a rash treatment, expose the affected area to air as much as possible and restrict topical product use to those approved by your dermatologist. Calamine medication lotions may be an acceptable exception and can provide some relief for rashes caused by poison ivy, poison oak, or other types of contact dermatitis.
Using Hot Water: While it may provide a temporary soothing sensation, the use of hot water on a rash can inflame the skin further and worsen the rash by increasing your body temperature and triggering skin cells that release histamine. Keep your rash under control by avoiding hot tubs, saunas, and showering or bathing with hot water.

For more information about treating skin rash, please contact the dermatologists at Advanced Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery. As part of the largest dermatology practice in America, our doctors can assist you with all of your cosmetic or clinical skincare needs. Immediate appointments are available at one of our Tampa offices. To locate an office or doctor near you, please visit Advanced Dermatology online or call us today at (866) 400-3376.