Rashes

The key to treating skin rashes is to identify their underlying cause. At Kessel Dermatology, the board-certified and licensed dermatology specialists provide complete skin exams, patch testing, and other lab work to learn more about the cause of your rash. The providers personalize a treatment plan using medications, topical creams, and other strategies to clear your rash and prevent damage to your skin. Call the offices servicing the Hamilton Square, Trenton, and Mercer County areas in New Jersey, to learn more about the available treatments for rashes, or book a consultation online today.  

What are rashes?

Rashes describe an area of irritated, red, or itchy skin. Skin rashes can develop from underlying medical issues like allergies. For instance, an allergic reaction to poison ivy or chemicals in detergents can cause a red, itchy rash, which can also spread to other areas of your skin.

Rashes can also be a side effect of:

• Eczema
• Psoriasis
• Shingles
• Chickenpox

You can also develop a rash as a side effect of viral infections, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis.

Kessel Dermatology offers many diagnostic testing services to identify the cause of skin rashes. They also customize a care plan to treat your symptoms and prevent the rash from returning.

When should I seek treatment for a skin rash?

Minor skin rashes may go away on their own with topical hydrocortisone creams. However, if you have a rash that lasts longer than a few days or rash symptoms that worsen even with care, you should schedule a diagnostic evaluation at Kessel Dermatology.

The board-certified dermatologists physically examine your skin and may order blood work or another lab test to identify the underlying cause of your rash.

You may also need dermatology patch testing to determine if your rash results from an allergic reaction. Patch testing involves applying adhesive patches containing small amounts of allergens. A red, itchy welt forms on your skin if you are allergic to a substance.

Based on your exam and lab tests, the Kessel Dermatology providers create a treatment plan to clear your skin and ease itching and pain.

How are rashes treated?

Your treatment plan for rashes may include topical or oral medications. If allergies trigger a skin rash, you may need to take an antihistamine or another allergy medication.

Kessel Dermatology also provides services to manage chronic skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis to prevent new rashes from developing. They may recommend medications or light therapy to keep your skin clear and free of rash symptoms.

You should also practice good skin hygiene at home. Use high-quality moisturizers to keep skin from drying out, and wear sunscreen any time you’re outdoors.

The dermatologists can also recommend chemical-free cleansers and other products you can use if you have allergies or sensitivities to chemicals and other substances.

Call Kessel Dermatology to schedule a diagnostic evaluation for rashes or book an appointment online today.