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What Cures Rashes?

An angry red rash can make it hard to focus on anything else, so you'll want to find the right cure fast. A rash is an inflammation of the skin, and it can have a wide variety of causes, ranging from illness to chemicals to poison ivy. You an choose from a number of methods and products to get rid of your rash as quickly as possible.

  1. Anti-Itch Creams

    • Anti-itch creams are available over the counter at most grocery stores and pharmacies. Look for creams that contain camphor, pramoxine, methol or diphenhydramine. Hydrocortisone cream is a popular form of anti-itch cream, effective against eczema rashes and insect bites, as well as poison ivy, oak and sumac. It might also relieve itching on the scalp. Your doctor may prescribe some extra-strength cortisone medication if you have a stubborn rash.

    Calamine Lotion

    • Calamine lotion is effective for treating rashes that come from contact with poison ivy, oak or sumac. You apply the medication with a cotton pad and allow it to dry, avoiding contact with the eyes, mouth, nose and genital or anal areas. Occasionally, calamine lotion will cause skin irritation as a side effect, and you should tell your doctor if this happens. Serious allergic reactions are possible but rare.

    Antihistamines

    • Antihistamines work to stop allergy symptoms, including - but not limited to - rashes. Antihistamines are best for treating breakouts such as hives. They occasionally come with some minor side effects, like drowsiness, dry mouth and blurry vision. Some of the most well-known antihistemines are diphenhydramine (Benadryl), chlorpheniramine or loratadine (Claritin and Alavert) and cetirizine (Zyrtec).

    Washing and Moisturizing

    • Sometimes a thorough washing and some moisturizing lotion will be enough to cure a rash. Don't scrub your skin too hard, and use a small amount of soap with gentle cleansers when you do clean the area. Use some warm water and gently pat the area dry when you're done. Try to avoid any ointments or lotions with harsh or perfumey chemicals which may irritate the skin. Keep the area exposed to the air.

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