Posted by: Skin And Cancer Institute in Medical Dermatology

At Skin and Cancer Institute, our board-certified dermatologists frequently see patients in all ages and stages of life struggling with various types of skin rashes that can range in severity and duration. For example, a prominent type of skin rash is known as atopic dermatitis. Atopic Dermatitis is a prevalent form of eczema and a pestering skin condition that causes its victims to itch and deal with ongoing redness, dryness and irritation. Eczema or atopic dermatitis can have multiple causes although it is difficult to diagnose a single cause. It is known to result from infections, heat, allergens, and a weak or compromised immune system. Such skin rashes can be seen in newborn babies, toddlers and even adults both young and elderly.

Risks of Not Being Examined by a Dermatologist

It is not uncommon for a baby’s pediatrician, for example, to misdiagnose a rash on a baby. The proper avenue for a correct diagnosis is to be seen by a skin care expert, a licensed and trained dermatologist. For example, a pediatrician may notice a red itchy rash and proclaim a diagnosis of seborrhea based on the presence of dry skin elsewhere including on the scalp which is commonly referred to as “cradle cap.” This diagnosis although well intentioned may lead a first-time mom to question where she should continue breastfeeding as seborrhea can be caused by hormones while eczema is an auto immune response. Rather than going down a rabbit hole of guessing, to administer timely and effective treatment but also to protect the patient, a dermatologist would be able to identify and diagnose the skin rash or condition. The similarities in appearance, texture, scaliness and dryness of the various rashes can coincide making self-diagnosis and self-treatment futile. Be sure to be examined by a board-certified dermatologist for a skin rash that does not go away.

The varying scale of damage and the duration of rashes are ultimately linked to the diagnosis and cause. This is why a verified diagnosis by a board-certified dermatologist is critical to proper treatments. As always, it is better to know for certain exactly what category the rash falls into. There are numerous categories of rashes which require different treatments including but not limited to the following:

  • Heat rash
  • Intertrigo
  • Rosacea
  • Psoriasis
  • Shingles
  • Ringworm
  • Swimmer’s itch
  • Roseola

Contact our practice today to schedule your consultation to see a licensed and experienced dermatologist to help identify and treat your skin condition if you are struggling with a skin rash.