Facing TB in Houston

26 Pictures Of Skin Rashes And How To Identify Them, According To Doctors

Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis is a dry, red, weepy, crusty rash that appears patchy and oval shaped, says Dr. Parikh. The rash is extremely itchy and can turn dark purple, black, or grey on darker skin tones and is commonly found on the elbows and back of knees, she adds. The rash can also cause tenderness or swelling in the affected area.

Atopic dermatitis and eczema (more on this soon!) are closely related because atopic derm is a type of eczema, per UCF Health. In fact, atopic dermatitis is the most common type of eczema (out of seven different types), according to the National Eczema Association.

Acne

There are many different forms of acne which all have a distinct look, including small flesh-colored bumps or large, deep, painful, and inflamed nodules, says Dr. Yadav.

Some forms of acne can be treated at home by using products with ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, but severe cases may need prescription topicals or oral medications, notes Dr. Yadav.

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Athlete's foot

Athlete's foot is a fungal infection that looks like cracked, scaly, and peeling skin found between the toes, most commonly the fourth and fifth toes, although it can spread to other parts of your foot, says Dr. Yadav. It's very itchy and the cracks can ooze, she explains.

To treat athlete's foot, you'll have to wash and dry your feet several times a day using an antifungal cleanser and over-the-counter antifungal creams or topicals, says Dr. Yadav.

Cellulitis

Cellulitis looks like a rash, but is actually an infection of the middle layer of skin, says Dr. Yadav. It causes the skin to become diffusely red, swollen, tender, and hot to the touch, and may make skin look pitted, she explains.

Cellulitis can also cause fever with chills, fatigue, or pain in the affected area and cannot be treated at home, so you should see a doctor ASAP if you present symptoms, says Dr. Yadav.

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Chickenpox

Luckily, chickenpox is rarely seen these days thanks to a vaccine, but it can still happen and presents as red, itchy, fluid-filled blisters, says Dr. Ansell. The bumps can also appear dry and/or crusty and develop blotchy scabs.​​

The rash is accompanied by a fever, headache, stomachache, and fatigue, and can be very dangerous to those unvaccinated, adds Dr. Ansell.

Contact dermatitis

Contact dermatitis is when a dry, red, scaly rash that can also look like fluid-filled blisters or poison ivy appears from coming in contact with an irritant or allergen, says Dr. Parikh. The rash usually has a distinct border and may be caused by substances such as perfumes, detergents or even jewellery.

The itchy rash can develop within minutes to hours after exposure to the allergen and can cause swelling, tenderness, or a burning sensation.

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Eczema

Eczema causes dry, rough, flaky, or scaly skin that can appear red, grey, brown, or purple, depending on the skin tone, says Dr. Yadav.

'It's an inflammatory skin condition that causes a dysfunctional skin barrier, which prevents the skin from staying hydrated and nourished and makes it more susceptible to external irritants,' she explains.

The rash is itchy and clusters on the elbows and knees, but can appear anywhere on the body, and is exacerbated by cold, dry weather.

Hand, foot, and mouth disease

Hand, foot, and mouth disease is caused by the Coxsackie virus and is usually seen in children under five, says Dr. Jacobs. It presents as sores in the mouth and a rash on the hands and feet but is also typically accompanied by fever and sore throat, he explains.

The condition is highly contagious, most commonly seen in daycares and schools, and spreads through coughing, sneezing, exchange of saliva, fluid from the rash, and stool, says Dr. Jacobs.

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Flea bites

Flea bites are usually seen on the lower legs around the ankles and feet, says Dr. Jacobs. The blisters are extremely itchy and often appear in a straight line or cluster of three to four small red bumps, he says.

Over-the-counter cortisone cream can help alleviate symptoms, but do not scratch or pick the lesions since that can cause further infection, Dr. Jacobs adds. If symptoms get worse or you have a fever, visit your doctor.

Heat Rash

Heat rash looks like small clusters of tiny pimples or blisters and can be itchy and painful, says Dr. Yadav. The rash forms when a sweat pore is blocked, trapping the sweat, and preventing it from evaporating, she explains.

It's most common during hot, humid weather, and can make your skin feel prickly, but symptoms usually dissipate in a few days, says Dr. Yadav. If symptoms worsen, or you have trouble breathing, visit a doctor immediately.

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Hives

Hives are red raised welts that turn white when you press on them, says Dr. Parikh. They can range in size from small mosquito-like bites or develop into larger patches on the body, she adds.

Hives are caused by an allergen such as food, medications, or insects, and can cause swelling in lips and tongue, adds Dr. Parikh. If you experience shortness of breath, tongue swelling, or chest tightness, call 999.

Impetigo

Impetigo is a common bacterial infection that causes red sores or blisters to form on the skin, usually around the mouth and nose, says Dr. Kamangar. The itchy sores may be pus-filled and can burst to form a yellow-brown crust over time, she explains.

The condition is caused by a bacterial infection, most commonly Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes, and the bacteria enters the body through small cuts or scrapes on the skin, Dr. Kamangar explains. It's most common in children but can affect adults and is often accompanied by fever, swollen lymph nodes, and a general feeling of illness, she adds.

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Lupus

Lupus is an autoimmune disease that causes a red scaly rash on the cheeks and nose, says Dr. Parikh. In particular, the rash is characterized as looking like a butterfly across the face, she explains. Discoid lupus can also cause round, dark, circular lesions on the face or cheeks that are scaly and resemble coins or discs, she adds.

Additional symptoms may include muscle and/or joint pain, fever, hair loss, chest pain, mouth sores, or sun sensitivity, per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Lyme Disease

Not every tick bite leads to Lyme disease, but if the bite expands into a red patch that is not scaly, it may signal you were infected with a black-legged tick and infected with Lyme disease, says Dr. Ansell.

At first, Lyme disease may present with a fever, headache, fatigue, and joint or muscle stiffness, and symptoms typically present three to 30 days after the bite, per the Mayo Clinic. Again, if you think you may have Lyme disease, see your doctor.

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Measles

Thanks to a vaccine, measles is rarely seen these days, however it is a highly contagious airborne disease caused by a virus, says Dr. Ansell. It causes fever, cough, and red eyes that may be sore and sensitive to light, spots in the mouth, and a splotchy, red rash that appears on the face and ears, then spreads down the chest and back, she explains.

Measles can cause severe complications, especially in young people, so if you suspect you have the disease, or have been exposed to an infected person, visit your doctor immediately, per the CDC.

Molluscum

Molluscum is a rash caused by the poxvirus and leads to small groups of bumps on the skin, says Dr. Jacobs. 'The lesions are small, elevated, pink or flesh coloured, and have a central dimple,' he explains. The bumps can also become red, swollen, and inflamed, he adds.

The condition is passed through direct contact and the rash may spread to other parts of the body in those who are immunocompromised, says Dr. Jacobs.

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Perioral dermatitis

Perioral dermatitis is a red rash that appears around your mouth and nose and causes red, inflamed, swollen bumps on the lower half of your face, says Dr. Parikh. The rash is very dry, itchy, and uncomfortable, and may be confused with acne, she adds.

Women ages 25 to 45 who use topical steroids and face creams are most likely to get this rash, though men can develop it, too, per Cleveland Clinic.

Overuse of topical steroids is most likely the cause of perioral dermatitis, however, it may also be caused by candida albicans, a yeast, which is a type of fungus, Cleveland Clinic notes, adding that fluoridated toothpaste, gum, or hormonal contraceptives, can also cause flare-ups.

Poison Ivy

Poison ivy is caused by skin contact with the poison ivy plant and looks like a red, blistering rash that's extremely itchy, says Dr. Yadav. You may also see swelling, blisters, or black dots on the skin from the oil that has oxidized on the surface, she adds.

If exposed to poison ivy, thoroughly rinse the affected area with soap and water, and if you have difficulty breathing, seek medical attention.

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Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that causes red, scaly patches, says Dr. Kamangar. These patches can occur anywhere on the body, but are most commonly found on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back, and can be itchy or painful and may crack or bleed, she explains.

The exact cause is unknown, but psoriasis is believed to be related to an immune system malfunction that causes skin cells to grow too quickly, leading to the formation of the scaly patches, and may be triggered by stress, infections, or certain medications, explains Dr. Kamangar.

Other symptoms include joint pain, nail changes, and fatigue, she adds.

Ringworm

Ringworm is a fungal infection that causes a red, itchy, circular rash on the skin with raised edges and a clear center, says Dr. Kamangar. The rash may be scaly, bumpy, or blistered, and can occur anywhere on the body.

Ringworm is more common in warm, humid climates and in people who have weakened immune systems, but other symptoms may include an itching, burning, or stinging sensation, and loss of hair in the affected area, she adds.

What Are The Different Kinds Of Skin Rashes?

Different types of skin rashes include those caused by allergic reactions, infections, insect bites, or health conditions. Examples include eczema, chickenpox, psoriasis, and shingles. It can be hard to identify a skin rash since many cause similar symptoms.

A skin rash is generally defined as an area of irritated skin noted by a change in texture, color, or feeling. Symptoms might include discoloration, itchiness, pain, swelling, blistering, and flaky or bumpy skin. Treatment depends on the cause and might include topical (applied to the skin) or oral medication (taken by mouth) and lifestyle changes.

Common types of skin rashes include dermatitis, allergies, insect bites, infections, or health conditions. Each general category includes different types of skin rashes with particular causes and symptoms. Eczema Eczema dermatitis. Irina Esau / Getty Images Eczema, which is also known as dermatitis, is a term for different types of swollen skin rashes. Common types of eczema include atopic dermatitis, allergic contact dermatitis, irritant contact dermatitis, and seborrheic dermatitis. These skin rashes commonly form on the face, hands, feet, and behind the knees. The rash may look discolored and will be dry, itchy, and swollen. It typically appears red in lighter skin tones and brown, gray, or purplish in darker skin tones. You might have eczema for a short period, or it might be chronic (long-term). It's not contagious, but the exact cause is unclear. Eczema is likely due to genetic and environmental factors. Research has shown that eczema is associated with hay fever (an allergic reaction to pollen) and asthma (which affects the airways in the lungs). Atopic Dermatitis Atopic dermatitis. Courtesy of Dermnet Atopic dermatitis is a type of chronic eczema. It's more common in infants and children, as well as in people who have seasonal allergies or asthma. Atopic dermatitis also tends to run in families. Atopic dermatitis can cause rashes anywhere on the skin, including the face. People with atopic dermatitis have more sensitive skin, possibly due to bacteria on their skin that cause an immune response. Triggers can include: Allergies Dry skin Illness Perfumes and dyes Stress Sudden changes in temperature Allergic Contact Dermatitis Allergic contact dermatitis. Courtesy of Dermnet Allergic contact dermatitis happens when the skin comes into contact with an allergen that causes an immune reaction. Common triggers include: Fragrances found in perfume, cosmetics, and hair products Latex Nickel Poison ivy You might notice the following symptoms within a day or two of exposure: Blisters Flakiness Severe itchiness Streaky discoloration on and around the rash Swelling The allergy develops with repeated exposure over time. You might not experience a reaction for years. The allergy might remain for the rest of your life. Symptoms can last for weeks after exposure to the trigger. Irritant Contact Dermatitis Irritant contact dermatitis. Courtesy of Dermnet Irritant contact dermatitis is more common than allergic contact dermatitis. This type of rash develops when there's direct contact with a substance that "damages" the skin through irritation or friction.  Some of the most common chemicals to prompt this type of rash include: Cement Hair dyes Household cleaning products and soaps Pesticides Irritant contact dermatitis might feel painful rather than itchy. The reaction can show up after either a short period of contact or through repeated exposure. Seborrheic Dermatitis Seborrhoeic dermatitis. Courtesy of Dermnet Seborrheic dermatitis is a type of atopic dermatitis. The cause is unknown, but seborrheic dermatitis may be a reaction to yeasts on the skin. Symptoms usually appear gradually and include: Dandruff (on the scalp) Greasy yellow scaling Itchiness These symptoms appear in areas with many sebaceous glands, including the face, scalp, and chest. Sebaceous glands are those in the hair follicles that produce sebum. This oily substance provides moisture to the skin. Chickenpox Chickenpox is a viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). It commonly affects children, but adults can also develop chickenpox. An itchy rash that forms fluid-filled blisters and then scabs over is the most common symptom of chickenpox. This rash typically affects the back, chest, and face. Other symptoms can include: A fever Headache Loss of appetite Tiredness Chickenpox typically resolves within five to 10 days. Calamine lotion and oatmeal baths can ease itching, and Tylenol (acetaminophen) reduces a fever. VZV remains latent in the nerve cells after the infection resolves. The virus can later reactivate and cause shingles in adults. Hives Hives. Courtesy of Dermnet Hives (urticaria) are raised welts that form on a patch of skin. Symptoms include significant itching and swelling. Hives typically last less than six weeks, but some cases can last longer. Hives often develop as a result of a food or drug allergy, but they have many other potential causes. Possible triggers include: Excessive sweating Illness Infection Insect bites Stress Water exposure Insect Bites It's common to experience skin irritation after being bitten or stung by an insect. Many insect bites are harmless and limited to a small bump or two. Certain bites can be serious, particularly if you're allergic to an insect's venom or if it's carrying a disease.  A tick bite can prompt a red or discolored rash that's shaped like a target. This rash might be a sign of Lyme disease, which requires prompt medical treatment. Flea bites can manifest as small, itchy, painful clusters of bumps that usually appear on the lower part of the leg. These bites can be bothersome, but they generally resolve on their own with no complications. Lupus Lupus is an autoimmune disorder, meaning the immune system mistakenly targets and attacks healthy cells. The most common type is called systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Lupus affects several body parts, including the brain, heart, lungs, joints, and skin. Lupus often causes a rash, which is known as a "butterfly rash," on the face. This rash can appear red in people with lighter skin tones or black, blue, brown, gray, or purple in people with darker skin tones. This rash may come and go in flares. There's no cure for lupus, but certain medications help control symptoms. Medications can include high-dose corticosteroids or immunosuppressant drugs. Measles Measles is a highly contagious viral infection. The most common symptom is a blotchy rash that appears red in lighter skin tones and brown or purplish in darker skin tones. This rash usually forms on the head before spreading down the rest of the body. Other measles symptoms include: Aches Cough Fever Pink eye, or conjunctivitis Runny nose Small white spots inside the mouth The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine can prevent measles. There's no treatment if you develop measles, which can cause health problems. Psoriasis Psoriasis. Courtesy of Dermnet Psoriasis is a skin condition that causes a thick, scaly rash on certain body parts, including elbows, knees, and scalp. This rash typically appears pink or red in people with lighter skin tones and dark brown in people with darker skin tones. Other common symptoms include irritation and itchiness. Most people have plaque psoriasis, which is characterized by silvery-white flaky scales on top of the rash. Certain triggers may prompt a rash to flare up, including: Dry air Infections Medications Skin injury Stress Sunlight Most people develop psoriasis between the ages of 15 to 35. It isn't contagious, but researchers speculate that there's a genetic component. Ringworm Ringworm is a type of tinea, which is a group of fungal infections. You can get ringworm from an infected person or pet or damp environments like shower floors and swimming pools. This fungal infection causes an itchy skin rash that has a ring around it. It typically appears pink or red in people with lighter skin tones and gray or brown in people with darker skin tones. You can usually treat ringworm with creams and powders. A healthcare provider may prescribe medications in some cases. Rosacea Rosacea is a skin condition that causes flushing, or redness of the face. It's most common in people with lighter skin tones. Other symptoms can include: Acne Dry, itchy, or red eyes Swelling of the nose Thick skin on the cheeks, chin, and forehead Vision problems There's no cure for rosacea, but treatments can manage symptoms. A healthcare provider may prescribe medications or, in severe cases, advise surgery. Scabies Scabies is a parasitic infection caused by mites. It may cause a rash or pimple-like growth on the skin. Other symptoms include itching that worsens at night and sores that develop from scratching. A healthcare provider can prescribe lotions to get rid of scabies. It's important to wash infected bedding, clothing, and towels in hot water and dry them in a hot dryer. People who live in your household and any sexual partners may also require treatment to prevent infection. Shingles Shingles. Courtesy of Dermnet A previous case of chickenpox or varicella vaccination can trigger shingles (herpes zoster). VZV stays dormant in the body and can manifest as shingles years later. Shingles causes a painful, burning rash that appears in clusters of small blisters, often on the torso. This rash tends to be red in people with lighter skin tones and dark brown, gray, pink, or purple in people with darker skin tones. You may notice a tingling sensation a few days before the rash appears. The blisters may crack open and bleed as they heal, which usually happens within several weeks. Shingles may also include symptoms like: Fever and chills A general feeling of being unwell Headache Joint pain These symptoms usually resolve as the rash heals. Treatment is most effective when you start it within the first few days of symptoms. Cellulitis Cellulitis is a bacterial infection that affects the skin. It's caused by group A Streptococcal (strep) bacteria. These bacteria can enter the body through burns, cuts, and wounds. A painful rash that blisters and scabs over is a common symptom of cellulitis. Other symptoms include a fever, chills, and swollen lymph nodes. Cellulitis is a medical emergency that requires prompt treatment. A healthcare provider will administer antibiotics that you take orally or receive intravenously. Common causes of skin rashes in children include: Atopic dermatitis: This condition affects about 20% of children in the United States. It's more common in infants and children than adults. Diaper rash: This type of skin rash is often caused by prolonged exposure to a damp or wet diaper. It may be accompanied by candidiasis, or a fungal infection caused by yeast. Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD): This viral infection commonly occurs in children younger than 10. HFMD causes a painful rash with small blisters on the hands, feet, and diaper area. Impetigo: This bacterial infection is characterized by small, fluid-filled bumps with a thick, yellow crust. Roseola: This is another viral infection that can cause a rash and fever. Seborrheic dermatitis: This type of dermatitis is known as cradle cap in infants and young children. Viral exanthem: This type of rash is usually related to a viral infection, such as chickenpox, erythema infectiosum, measles, and roseola. A dermatologist (who specializes in skin, hair, and nail health) usually treats skin rashes. The exact treatment for a rash will depend on its cause. A dermatologist may prescribe one or more of the following options as part of a treatment plan:  Antiviral medications: Medications like Zovirax (acyclovir), Valtrex (valacyclovir), and Famvir (famciclovir) can help treat shingles. Home remedies: Topical remedies like calamine lotion, cool compresses, or oatmeal baths can soothe itchiness. Over-the-counter (OTC) oral antihistamines: Medications often used to treat allergies can reduce swelling and itching. Topical corticosteroids: Medications that reduce inflammation are often used to treat eczema. Topical or systemic immunomodulators: Medications like Protopic (tacrolimus), Opzelura (ruxolitinib), and Dupixent (dupilumab) can suppress the immune response. Trigger avoidance: Learning what triggers skin rashes and avoiding these triggers can prevent an allergic- or irritant-related rash. It may be difficult but try to avoid scratching. Scratching a rash worsens symptoms and can lead to irritation or infection. Most rashes are not life-threatening, but some can signal something more serious. See a dermatologist or go to the emergency room right away if you have a rash that: Appears suddenly and spreads quickly: This rash might be due to an allergy to a medication or other substance. Covers your body: This could be a sign of an infection or allergic reaction. Is accompanied by difficulty breathing or swelling in the mouth or throat: This may be an allergic reaction or anaphylaxis, which is a severe reaction, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. Is accompanied by fever: This likely indicates an infection like measles or shingles. Is blistering: Any blisters that turn into open sores can be the result of an allergic reaction or another condition. Blisters can be particularly problematic if they affect the skin around your mouth, eyes, or genitals.  Is painful or appears infected: Symptoms of infection include swelling, crusting, warmth, and potentially yellow or green fluid (pus). Some rashes might take days or perhaps weeks to heal. Always speak with a healthcare provider if your rash isn't improving after a week or so. Reach out sooner if it appears to be infected or getting worse. Rashes are patches of skin that are abnormal in color or texture. They can look bumpy, scaly, or swollen, and they're usually itchy or painful. Many things can trigger a rash, including allergies, infections, insect bites, or health conditions. You can treat many rashes at home with OTC medications and soothing skin care, but keep an eye on them. Reach out to a healthcare provider if the rash is painful or getting worse. Seek immediate medical attention if the rash spreads quickly, shows possible signs of infection, or is accompanied by other symptoms like a fever.

What Childhood Rash Is This?

It can be alarming if you discover a rash or spots on your baby or child, especially if you don't know what's causing it or what it could be.

Our guide includes photos of rashes on different skin colours, takes you through common causes of childhood skin conditions and explains what to do about them.

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My child has a rash: what should I do?

Childhood rashes are common and usually harmless, and most will disappear without even needing treatment, but here's what to do if you spot one:

Rule out obvious causes. Have you recently changed your washing detergent or a baby product? Young skin is sensitive and more prone to irritation, inflammation and redness from something as basic as this. Switching to less allergenic formulations such as non bio detergent and treating with antihistamines in the meantime can help.

Is an infection going round? Check if they've been in contact with another child with a contagious illness at nursery, school or elsewhere, as this may give you a clue as to what the rash could be.

Do they also have a fever? Many rashes are accompanied by other symptoms such as fever – use a digital thermometer to check your child's temperature is within the safe range. Keep the thermometer in your first aid kit so it's always to hand. Our downloadable first aid checklist tells you what else it should contain.

If unsure, call 111 or contact your GP. If you're doubtful about what rash it is, get a professional opinion. For example, it can be harder to see rashes on brown or black skin, so the NHS advises you to check the soles of the feet, palms, lips, tongue and inside the eyelids for colour changes.

When to call 999 or visit A&E

In rare cases, a rash can be a symptom of something serious, such as an anaphylactic allergic reaction or meningitis. Call 999 or go to A&E now if your child has a rash and is unwell with any of these symptoms:

A stiff neck

Is bothered by light

Seems confused

A high temperature

Has difficulty breathing (for example grunting noises or their tummy sucking under their ribs), breathlessness or fast breathing

A rash that looks like small bruises or bleeding under the skin that doesn't fade when a glass is pressed against it

Has skin that is pale, blue, grey or blotchy.

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Allergic reaction rash

Allergies in children are common – 40% of UK children have been diagnosed with one, according to Allergy UK – but they can still be a concern for parents.

Among the most common allergies in young children are food allergies (around 1 in 12), such as cow's milk allergy.

Allergic reaction rash symptoms

Flushed face

Hives on the face or a red, itchy rash around the mouth, tongue or eyes – possibly spreading across the body

Blocked or runny nose

Allergic reaction rash treatment

Hives can usually be treated at home by cooling the skin and administering antihistamines.

If you detect swelling around their mouth or tongue or they have trouble breathing, ask for an urgent GP appointment or get help from NHS 111.

Chickenpox

Chickenpox is a common and very infectious virus that usually gets better by itself after a couple of weeks.

Chickenpox symptoms

Stage 1: Small red spots appear. These can be anywhere on the body. Your child may also develop a fever, get aches and pains and lose their appetite.

Stage 2: The spots become itchy, fluid-filled blisters. 

Stage 3: The blisters scab and may become flaky or leak fluid.

Chickenpox treatment

Plenty of rest and hydration, plus antihistamines and paracetamol such as Calpol to ease itching. Avoid ibuprofen as it can cause skin reactions in people with chickenpox.

Over-the-counter gels and foams for treating chickenpox scabs are easy to apply, less messy than calamine lotion and won't dry spots out. 

9 things every parent needs to know about chickenpox – we give you the facts including what it is, how it spreads and how to treat it

Cradle cap

Although not technically a rash, the scales that are typical of cradle cap may still cause alarm if you spot them on your little one's scalp.

However, this common harmless condition – which is a form of seborrhoeic dermatitis – tends to go within six to 12 months, even if it's not treated.

Cradle cap symptoms

Large patches of white or yellow scaly skin on the scalp, or the scalp can look pink with white or grey scales on black or brown skin.

Mainly found on the head and face, but it can also appear in the nappy area.

Cradle cap treatment

Lightly massage a moisturiser onto the scalp to help loosen the scales.

Gently brush the scalp with a soft brush, then wash with baby shampoo. Don't be tempted to pick the crusts, as this can increase infection risk.

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Eczema

Eczema (atopic dermatitis) is a common skin condition that usually starts in babies and infants but tends to get better as they get older.

It can be worsened or even triggered by allergens such as certain foods, pollen or pets, products such as soaps and shampoos, or by factors such as central heating and hard water.

Eczema symptoms

Itchy, bumpy, raised patches of skin that can appear anywhere but mostly on the hands, elbows, backs of the knee, face and scalp.

Infected eczema oozes or weeps, has a scabbed yellow crust, is more itchy and painful than usual and the skin may be red or swollen.

Eczema treatment 

Emollients and wet wraps. Emollients are moisturisers used daily to prevent skin dryness, while wet wraps can help to cool the skin when symptoms worsen during an eczema flare-up.

Steroids. Topical corticosteroids can be used intermittently to reduce skin redness and dampen inflammation during a flare-up. Calcineurin inhibitors may be prescribed if these don't work, especially for delicate areas such as around the eyes.

Antihistamines and antibiotics. Antihistamines can help to relieve itching. Antibiotics can be prescribed if the eczema becomes infected (your GP may take a swab first).

Giant hogweed and other plant rashes

The milky sap from non-native giant hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum) contains high levels of photosensitising plant chemicals that make the skin unable to protect itself from UV light.

If you're in sunlight with the sap on your skin, it can cause a rash, followed by burning and blistering that can take around a week to heal. Even after this healing period, the skin can remain scarred and sensitive to light.

Giant hogweed symptoms

Raised, red welts developing as quickly as 15 minutes after contact with the sap.

Blistering if skin is exposed to sunlight/UV light.

Giant hogweed treatment

Wash skin immediately with soap and cool water (don't burst any blisters), flush eyes with plenty of water as a precautionary measure and remove and wash clothing worn during contact. 

Get out of sunlight immediately (keep out for at least 48 hours) and seek medical advice. The Woodland Trust has information on giant hogweed and similar-looking but harmless plants such as cow parsley and common hogweed, plus other plants that can also cause phytotoxic burns such as wild parsnip or poison ivy (commonly found in the US).

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Hand, foot and mouth disease

Hand, foot and mouth disease is a common childhood illness caused by a virus.  

Despite the name, it has nothing to do with the foot and mouth disease that affects farm animals.

Hand, foot and mouth disease symptoms

Sore throat, followed by mouth ulcers after a few days.

High temperature and lack of appetite. 

Raised pink or red spots on the hands, feet and mouth (sometimes also on the thighs and bottom), turning into blisters that are grey or lighter than the surrounding skin. 

Hand, foot and mouth disease treatment

Antibiotics don't help hand, foot and mouth disease because it's viral, but the condition should get better by itself in 7 to 10 days (speak to your GP if it goes on for longer).

Let them rest and give them plenty of fluids and soft foods such as yoghurt, but avoid acidic drinks such as orange juice and spicy foods as these can worsen mouth sores.

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Heat rash (prickly heat)

Heat rash is also known as prickly heat, sweat rash or miliaria. It occurs when sweat glands become blocked and, although it can be uncomfortable, it's largely harmless and can't be passed on to other people. 

Babies get heat rash because they can't control their temperature as well as adults and children.

Heat rash symptoms

Small, raised red spots with blisters that can look like beads of sweat.

An itchy, prickly feeling.

Redness and mild swelling.

Heat rash treatment

Cool the skin by applying a damp cloth, giving them cooling baths or showers and dressing them in loose cotton clothing.

Don't use creams or powders that can clog pores. 

Keep them well hydrated.

How to deal with heat rash and sunstroke – our guide to spotting the symptoms, plus what to do if you're affected and who is most at risk

Hives (urticaria or nettle rash)

A hives rash,  also known as urticaria or nettle rash, is usually caused by a reaction to food, medicines, pollen or insect bites and stings. 

It's not to be confused with a nettle sting, which is caused by stinging nettle plants – the similar name is because the rash looks similar in both cases.

Hives symptoms

Red, raised, itchy bumps or wheals, which can be in large patches or appear as red spots. 

Hives can be different shapes and sizes and can appear anywhere on the body.

Itchy rash that can also feel like it's burning or stinging.

Hives treatment

Damp compresses and cooling baths. 

Ask your pharmacist or GP for antihistamines that are suitable for children.

If the hives keep coming back or don't improve after two days, visit your GP, as your child might have an allergy that needs to be investigated.

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Impetigo

Impetigo is a highly contagious bacterial skin condition that's usually found on exposed areas such as the face and hands. It's particularly common in babies and young children.

Impetigo symptoms

Reddish sores, often around the nose and mouth.

These develop into fluid-filled blisters which, when burst, form a yellowish scab. 

Impetigo treatment

Hydrogen peroxide cream if it's in one area, or antibiotic cream or tablets if more widespread. Speak to your pharmacist, who can provide some of these treatments.

Gently wash the scabs, cover them with loose clothing or bandages and stay away from others until they stop being contagious (48 hours after starting treatment or when patches are crusted over).

Don't share flannels, towels or sheets with anyone with impetigo, and wash these at a high temperature after use.

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Measles

Although it's less common than it used to be, measles is a highly infectious virus that's now on the rise in the UK because of fewer people getting the MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) jab. 

Measles symptoms appear around 10 days after you're infected, so it's important to alert anyone your child may have been in contact with, including nursery and school.

Measles symptoms

Cold-like symptoms including a high temperature, runny or blocked nose and sneezing. 

Grey-white spots on the back of the lips and inside of the cheeks, plus sore, red eyes. 

A red, blotchy measles rash a few days later (the rash doesn't tend to be itchy).

Measles treatment

Plenty of rest, keep your child well hydrated and clean crusts from their eyes with cotton wool soaked in warm water.

Give paracetamol or ibuprofen to relieve high temperatures.

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Meningitis rash

Meningitis is when the lining around the brain and spinal cord (the meninges) gets inflamed, usually because of a viral or bacterial (and, rarely, fungal) infection.

This can lead to meningococcal septicaemia (blood poisoning) with its telltale rash. It's a very serious illness that can cause widespread damage including skin and tissue damage, bone growth problems, organ failure and limb loss if not treated quickly. 

Meningococcal septicaemia rash symptoms

A reddish-purple, bruise-like 'petechial' rash caused by blood leaking into the tissues under the skin. Crucially, it doesn't disappear if you roll a glass over it.

Fever, vomiting, cold hands and feet, rapid breathing, aversion to bright lights, a stiff neck, becoming floppy or unresponsive and an unusual cry or moaning. 

Meningococcal septicaemia rash treatment

Don't wait for a rash –  if you're worried about any of these other symptoms, call 999 or go to A&E.

The patient will usually be started on antibiotic treatment immediately and the treatment stopped if hospital tests show it's viral.

Keep your child up to date with their vaccinations. Three doses of the MenB vaccine are given as part of the NHS vaccination schedule. Speak to your GP practice for further information.

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Nappy rash

Nappy rash is very common and is caused by moisture from urine and faeces irritating your baby's delicate skin.

Although mild nappy rash might not bother them too much, it can be uncomfortable, itchy and even painful.

Nappy rash symptoms

Red, inflamed or spotty skin around your baby's bottom and genitals.

Skin may look shiny and sore and feel hot to the touch.

Nappy rash treatment

Over-the-counter nappy creams will help to ease sore skin and act as a barrier to moisture to prevent it happening in the future.  

Change wet or dirty nappies as soon as possible and give your baby some nappy-free time each day to allow air to get to the skin. Place them on a waterproof mat in case of any accidents.