Skin rashes come in many shapes and sizes. They can appear as blotches, raised red bumps, itchy blisters and patches of dry flaky skin. Most skin rashes will clear up in a few days. Some require medical attention.
Significance
When the body is allergic to something, the skin is often the first to react. While many rashes are harmless and will clear up on their own, many more can be painful, leave scars and may signal a more serious condition.
Contact Dermatitis
Direct contact with something that causes an allergic reaction or skin irritation can cause raised, red, flaky skin. Culprits include poison ivy, oak and sumac, household products including soaps and cleansers, latex, adhesives and metals including jewelry.
Eczema and Psoriasis
Eczema is a form of inflammation of the skin and can cause red, flaky and itchy skin. Also called atopic dermatitis, it may include crusty and oozing blisters. Psoriasis is a chronic and unpredictable skin disorder that flares up at any time. It can be painful and embarrassing, and may interfere with daily activities.
Hives
Hives are also caused by an inflammation to the skin. They can be triggered by an allergic reaction, medications or environmental factors. Raised, red or white, itchy, burning and stinging welts on the skin often result during an attack of the hives.
Impetigo
Impetigo is a contagious bacterial infection of the skin most common in children. The rash begins as a red patch and evolves into a larger, clump-like, red, raised, crusty, sore rash.
Lyme Disease
Lyme disease is detected by a red "bull's-eye" rash on the skin. The edges around the rash may become very red and raised. The rash may fade, but fever and fatigue often follow. Immediate medical treatment is required.
