Home remedies for rashes

A rash can reflect irritation, allergy, dryness, infection or another skin condition. Location, timing, itch, pain, scaling and exposure to new products help a clinician narrow the possibilities. In babies, a rash in the nappy area may be Nappy Rash, but a similar-looking rash can need different care if it has satellite spots, marked swelling or involvement beyond the covered skin.

Rinse away a suspected irritant and pause new soaps, wipes, cosmetics, fragrances and laundry products. Clean with lukewarm water or a mild, unperfumed cleanser, then pat rather than rub. Keep folds dry, change wet nappies promptly, and use loose clothing. A plain barrier or moisturising product may reduce friction; Emollient Therapy can be discussed with a clinician. Avoid homemade acids, essential oils, talcum powder and leftover prescription creams. If the rash is moist, sharply bordered or spreading, a clinician may consider Topical Antifungal Treatment instead of general moisturising.

Get prompt medical advice for fever, significant pain, blisters, pus, rapidly spreading redness, skin peeling, or a rash involving the eyes or mouth. Seek urgent help for breathing difficulty, facial swelling, collapse, or a sudden widespread rash after a medicine or food. Arrange an appointment when gentle care does not help or the rash keeps returning.

Ask which causes fit the rash, whether a product should be stopped, what can safely be applied to this body area, and what change should prompt urgent review.