How to Get Rid of a Dry Skin Rash That Is Infected

Rashes caused by dry skin are a common occurrence, particularly in the winter. They tend to be red, flaky and itchy. Germs, dirt and bacteria on our hands and under our nails scrape through the already raw skin of the rash when we scratch, which can lead to an infection. What itched before can now be almost unbearable and look even worse. We have to treat the rash, while also treating the infection so it does not spread and create a serious situation like a staph infection. There are things you can do to get rid of a dry skin rash that is infected.

Instructions

• 1

  Avoid baths, especially long hot ones. Baths aggravate dry skin by robbing it of its moisture from natural oils. Soap and dirt in the bathwater can also worsen an infection.

• 2

  Wash with mild soap and water. Do not use alcohol to clean the infected area. Alcohol is drying, which will only make your rash worse.

• 3

  Use an antibiotic ointment, like Neosporin. Be sure it has a moisturizing base ingredient like petroleum jelly.

• 4

  Apply hydrocortisone on just the rash to combat itching.

• 5

  Do not scratch - you will only spread the infection or allow it to penetrate deeper. Keep your nails very short so that you do minimal damage at night, while keeping the infected area bandaged as you sleep.

• 6

  Continue to moisturize the area around the infection. Petroleum jelly, a quality moisturizing cream and olive oil are all choices that can provide relief. Be sure not to get any in or on your infection.

• 7

  See a doctor if the area starts to weep or pus. You may have a more serious infection that needs to be treated with a stronger topical antibiotic or an oral antibiotic.