Skin rashes can come about from a number of triggers. Here are a few treatments to keep in mind when they come about.
Treatment options vary depending on what instigated it; however, generally when a rash surfaces it will appear “itchy, red and blotchy”, says GP Dr Joe Kosterich.
Kosterich.
Pharmacy treatment: Moisturising creams and emulsifying ointments
How it works:
Priceline pharmacist Monica Soliman recommends gentle moisturising cream as the first point of treatment for irritated, dry skin. Simply apply it liberally to provide relief. “Look for products that contain sorbolene or aqueous cream,” Soliman says. For more severe cases an emulsifying ointment is also an option.
Warnings: These treatments need to be reapplied frequently, which can be time consuming. The lack of active ingredients also means it’s a slow healing process.
Pharmacy treatment: Topical antifungal treatment
How it works: “A fungal rash is usually intensely itchy, characterised by a visible red ring on the skin,” Soliman says. To treat it Soliman recommends using products that contain ingredients clomitrazole and miconazole. “These creams work either by inhibiting the growth or spread of a fungus, or by killing the fungus completely.”
Warnings: While the fungus is present, the cream should be applied twice daily; however, the real work comes after the visible symptoms have gone. Soliman says you should continue using the treatment for “two weeks to make sure the fungus is eradicated”.
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