Skin rashes are an incredibly common health concern. In fact, most people will develop some type of skin irritation or rash at some point in their lives. Noticing a rash on your face, trunk, arms, legs, hands, or feet can be distressing, but in many cases, rashes are not a sign of a serious illness. By examining the affected area and considering your symptoms, you may be able to determine what sort of skin rash you have. In this post, we’ll share tips on how to identify some of the most common types of skin rashes and when it’s best to see a doctor for an official diagnosis.
Characteristics of Common Skin Rashes
Many rashes look similar, so it can be difficult to properly identify them on your own. The only way to know for sure what type of rash you have is to be examined by a healthcare professional. In some cases, you may need to see a dermatologist, a doctor that specializes in treating skin conditions. To try to self-identify a rash, you can use the following characteristics.
Eczema (Atopic dermatitis)
Atopic dermatitis or eczema affects one out of every 10 people, according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association. It occurs when the skin becomes dry and inflamed. Some signs of an eczema rash include:
- Dry skin
- Cracked skin
- Itching
- Small raised bumps that may be pink, red, brown, or black, depending on skin tone
- Oozing of clear fluid
- Crusting
- Thickening of skin
- Darkening of skin around the eyes
On the next page, you’ll find more information about how you can recognize the symptoms of specific skin disorders and when to visit a doctor.
