Chronic inflammation often causes changes in skin color. This is not the starting problem, but rather the consequence of inflammation. Dermatologist will need to physically examine the rash to confirm the diagnosis. There are some possibilities, which are not exhaustive.

 

1. Eczema: is an itch that rashes, rather than a rash that itches. In other words, skin first itches, and scratching it leads to a rash. This establishes a itch-scratch cycle. Eczema is a chronic condition that is controlled, not cured. Control includes judicious use of topical steroids, liberal use of moisturizers, especially immediately after bathing while the skin is still damp, keeping nails short and sometimes using antihistamines.

 

2. Tinea versicolor causes an itchy rash that is worse in the hot summer. This is caused by a fungus called pityrosporum ovale. Treatment is by either antifungal medication or selsun lotion. Drinking cleaner water and maintaining personal hygiene go a long way in managing this condition.

3. Seborrheic dermatitis is another fungal infection that is managed with antifungal shampoos and topical creams.

4. Cholinergic urticaria is a condition in which one develops an acute allergic reaction, often with hives, to one's own sweat.

Dermatology consultation should be able to diagnose the condition. If no diagnosis is made, then they may give medication hoping it would make the patient better. Quite often, the dermatologist will prefer a small skin biopsy to see what it looks like under the microscope. This is often necessary to make an accurate diagnosis. Of course, the correct treatment depends on an accurate diagnosis.

 

Following medicines may be advised to treat the condition:

·         A salicylic acid based face wash

·         A water based moisturiser and sunscreen meant for oily skin

·         Washing hair with shampoo meant for oily scalp alternate days.

·         Kojic acid based cream over hyperpigmented skin in the morning

·         Glycolic acid 12 percent cream in night alternating it with tretinoin gel in microspheres in night( eg Monday Glycolic acid, Tuesday tretinoin, Wednesday Glycolic again, and so on).

·         Oral vitamin c supplement daily.

 

For a proper evaluation and definitive treatment, you need to consult a dermatologist. Ask A Dermatologist online to confirm the diagnosis with the help of history and photograph. Only then a correct management approach can be started.

 

Written by Dr Vaishalee Punj