Body Rash: What to Know

A rash may be flat or raised, dry or moist, scaly, ring-shaped, or made of small bumps. Contact Dermatitis can follow a new soap, detergent, fabric, cosmetic, or plant. Heat Rash tends to affect sweaty or occluded areas. Atopic Dermatitis and Psoriasis can cause recurring dry, inflamed patches. Ringworm may form an expanding scaly edge, while Scabies often causes intense itching and may affect more than one household member. A new medicine can also cause Drug Rash. These patterns overlap, so appearance alone is not enough for diagnosis.

Pause newly introduced fragranced products and rinse gently with lukewarm water. Pat dry instead of rubbing, wear breathable clothing, and avoid scratching. Use a plain moisturiser on dry skin unless a clinician has advised otherwise. Do not share towels, clothing, or bedding when an infectious rash is possible. Photograph the rash and note when it began, recent products, medicines, travel, heat exposure, and whether others are itchy. A pharmacist or clinician can recommend treatment after considering the pattern and the body site.

Seek urgent help for a rash with trouble breathing, swelling of the lips or tongue, faintness, widespread blistering, skin peeling, or sores in the mouth or eyes. Arrange prompt assessment for fever, severe pain, rapidly spreading redness, pus, or a rash after starting a medicine. A rash that persists, repeatedly returns, disrupts sleep, or affects a child or pregnant person also deserves medical advice.

Ask what features identify the likely cause, whether you should stop a product or medicine, whether testing is needed, and how to prevent the rash from returning.