Rashes
Fast Answers for Troubling Skin Reactions
Our dermatologists quickly identify and treat rashes with a focus on comfort,
accuracy, and long-term skin health.
What are rashes?
Rashes are areas of irritated or swollen skin. They may appear as blotchy areas of skin, welts, or blisters. Your rash may be itchy, painful, scaly, or dry.
Your rash may appear on one area of your body or all over. It may appear suddenly and resolve on its own or turn into a chronic skin condition. Rashes may also come and go.
What are the types of rashes?
There are many types of rashes that develop from various causes. These types include:
Contact dermatitis
Contact dermatitis is a skin rash that develops when your skin comes in contact with an irritating substance, such as detergents, chemicals, or dyes. Poison ivy also causes this type of skin rash.
Eczema
Eczema is a chronic type of rash that causes inflamed, itchy patches of skin. This type of rash occurs in cycles, and flare-ups may be unpredictable.
People with eczema may also have asthma or hay fever.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder that triggers an overproduction of skin cells. People with psoriasis have red, scaly patches of skin. It is a chronic skin condition.
Your rash may also be a symptom of an underlying medical condition such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus or an allergic reaction to a drug or food.
When should I get dermatology care for rashes?
Though you may be able to treat some rashes at home, you should schedule an appointment with the experts at Thomas Dermatology if at-home care fails to improve your skin condition.
The team also recommends you come in for an evaluation if your rash is itchy or painful or a chronic problem. They also recommend scheduling a visit if your rash develops suddenly and covers a large portion of your body.
The experienced dermatologists conduct comprehensive evaluations to find the root cause of your rash so you can get the most effective treatment.
The full-service dermatology practice even has an on-site pathology lab and offers allergy testing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kinds of rashes are commonly treated?
Common rashes include eczema, allergic contact dermatitis, viral or drug‑induced rashes, fungal rashes, heat rash, and psoriasis. Any rash that persists, spreads, or is unexplained should be evaluated.
When should I see a dermatologist for a rash?
You should seek care if a rash spreads rapidly, is painful, shows signs of infection (pus, fever), or fails to improve after a few weeks of over‑the‑counter care. Early diagnosis often improves outcomes.
How does Thomas Dermatology diagnose and treat rashes?
We take a comprehensive history and perform a physical exam. Diagnostic tests (scrapings, patch tests, biopsy, lab work) may identify triggers. Treatments may include topical corticosteroids, antifungals, antihistamines, antibiotics, or phototherapy. Because rashes are often multifactorial and responses vary, treatment is tailored and may evolve over time.