Skin Rash: 10 Ways To Treat Them!

A skin rash can be uncomfortable and embarrassing, but it’s not typically something to worry about. However, some rashes can be caused by serious underlying conditions that can affect your health in more ways than just on the surface of your skin. If you find yourself with a skin rash that’s refusing to go away or that’s accompanied by other symptoms, such as fever or fatigue, you should visit your doctor immediately to determine what exactly is causing the problem and get treatment, if necessary. Here are 10 ways to treat skin rash.

1) Prevention

The best way to treat skin rash is to prevent it in the first place. The easiest way to do that is with a high-quality skin moisturizer. Regularly applying an oil or butter-based moisturizer can help strengthen your skin’s natural barrier, preventing moisture loss and thus reducing redness and irritation. Use a non-comedogenic moisturizer if you have sensitive skin; these products are specifically designed not to clog pores. If you think you may be allergic, patch test before slathering all over—especially if a rash flares up on your face or near your eyes.

2) Ice

Applying ice to a skin rash can reduce pain and inflammation. First, clean and dry the affected area thoroughly. Gently apply a thin layer of crushed ice, wrap it in gauze or place it in a ziplock bag, then secure with tape. Leave it on for 20 minutes at a time, up to four times per day. As an alternative, you can use plain frozen veggies instead of ice cubes. Both methods work well for treating any type of rash—even bug bites! Be sure not to apply ice directly on your skin as you could get frostbite; however, if that happens don’t panic: It is treatable with proper medical care.

3) Tea Tree Oil

The antifungal, antiviral, and antibacterial properties of tea tree oil make it a great home remedy for skin rash. If you have diabetes, remember that even if tea tree oil is natural and herbal, it’s still considered a drug. So ask your doctor or pharmacist whether or not it’s safe for you before using it. You can add a few drops of tea tree oil in 1⁄2 cup of plain water and wash your affected areas with it daily. It works well as an underarm deodorant too! Another option is to mix about two tablespoons of honey with half a teaspoon each of lemon juice and tea tree oil and apply directly on your skin rash once or twice daily for quick relief from itchiness.

4) Raw Honey

Honey is a powerful antibacterial, and it contains antioxidants and enzymes that work together to break down dead skin cells. This natural mask will soothe an irritated complexion and is especially useful for dermatitis or rosacea. Leave on for 15 minutes, then rinse off with warm water. For sensitive skin, dilute 1 part honey with 2 parts warm water before applying.

5) Cortisone Cream

One of today’s most popular treatments for skin rash, cortisone creams can be found over-the-counter or through a prescription from your doctor. Often used as an anti-inflammatory and pain reliever, cortisone creams work by limiting bodily responses that lead to itching and discomfort caused by a skin rash. But, before you go picking up any type of cream at your local drugstore, it’s important that you talk with your doctor about which kind will be best for you. For example, if you suffer from eczema or psoriasis—or just irritated or itchy skin in general—it may be best to get a prescription so a dermatologist can advise what will work best based on your specific issue.

6) Hydrocortisone Cream

Hydrocortisone cream is an effective solution for skin rashes. Derived from a hormone produced by your adrenal glands, hydrocortisone works in as little as 30 minutes and can significantly reduce itching. Remember that you should only use hydrocortisone for mild cases of rashes; if your rash does not clear up within seven days or gets worse, talk to your doctor about other treatment options. There are also many over-the-counter medications that treat different types of skin rash, so it’s a good idea to research what works best on specific issues before settling on one treatment option.

7) Zinc Oxide Cream

One way to treat a skin rash is by applying Zinc Oxide Cream. Zinc oxide is a kind of clay that can protect your skin and hold in moisture, which will help soothe your skin and prevent it from getting dry or damaged. If you don’t have any Zinc Oxide on hand, there are other ways you can get zinc into your body. Taking zinc supplements will help provide benefits directly through oral consumption. However, remember that too much zinc in your system can actually be detrimental, so consult with a physician before taking supplements regularly. Foods that contain high levels of zinc include oysters, beans, and whole grains like quinoa.

8) Lavender Oil

Lavender oil is an herbal essential oil that can help to soothe irritated skin. To relieve itching and calm inflamed skin, combine 3 drops of lavender oil with 1/2 cup of water in a spray bottle. Spray on rash and let it dry before dressing. Repeat as needed. Lavender oil is a natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory; it also has calming properties that help fight stress and improve sleep patterns, which may play a role in relieving symptoms of flare-ups.

9) Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is an effective natural treatment for skin rash, thanks to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. If you’re dealing with redness or bumps in your skin, try applying some coconut oil. Leave it on overnight and then wash it off in the morning. It’s especially effective if you mix a few drops of tea tree oil with a teaspoon of coconut oil before applying it to your rash.

10) Baking Soda Paste

If your rash is a simple case of dry skin or if it’s not too severe, try making a paste out of baking soda and water. To make a simple treatment, mix two parts baking soda with one part water. Gently rub it into your rash, working it in well and leaving it on for five minutes before rinsing off. Repeat as necessary. Over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream: Hydrocortisone cream is an over-the-counter medication that can be applied to skin rashes. Poison ivy, etc., helps reduce inflammation, redness, and itching. For minor rashes such as poison ivy, hydrocortisone cream may be all you need!