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Rash Specialist

Sanford Dermatology

Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Dermatology located in Sanford, NC, Lillington, NC & Pittsboro, NC

A rash is a sign that something is irritating your skin or body. Because a rash is never something you should ignore — it may be a warning sign of a serious allergic reaction — the top-rated dermatologists at Sanford Dermatology provide comprehensive skin care for rashes in Sanford, Pittsboro, and Lillington, North Carolina. If you have a rash call the location nearest you to schedule an evaluation as soon as possible.

Rash Q & A

What causes a rash?

Rashes can develop anywhere on your body, depending on the underlying cause. For instance, if you come into contact with oily resins found in poison ivy or poison oak, you may develop a rash in the area that was exposed to the irritating plant. Once that resin gets on your skin, you can even spread it to other areas of your body, or to other people.

You can also develop rashes due to:

  • Environmental allergies, such as pollen or grass
  • Viral infections, like chickenpox or shingles 
  • Prescription medication and drug allergies
  • Autoimmune diseases, as with psoriasis
  • Bacterial infections, such as cellulitis
  • Fungal infections, including ringworm
  • Food allergies, including peanuts
  • Insect bites or stings

Sometimes, rashes develop because of sweating and heat exposure (heat rashes), especially in the folds of skin, underneath breasts, or near your groin. These types of rashes may occur after exercising or spending too much time out in the sun. 


When should I see a dermatologist for a rash?

The caring team at Sanford Dermatology encourage you to come in anytime you have a rash, especially if it doesn’t seem to improve or if it worsens after several days. You need to have your rash evaluated if you’re experiencing or noticing:

  • Flaky or dry skin
  • Open sores 
  • Oozing 
  • Itching
  • Blisters 
  • Hives

It’s important to seek immediate emergency medical attention if your rash is associated with symptoms of a severe allergy, including throat swelling, wheezing, or difficulty breathing. These are warning signs of anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening condition.  


How is a rash treated?

Your dedicated dermatologist at Sanford Dermatology spends time evaluating you and running any essential labs to get to the root of why you have a rash. Depending on your diagnosis, your  rash treatment plan may include:

  • Antibiotic, antiviral, or antifungal medications
  • Clinical-grade sensitive skin moisturizers
  • Allergy shots (immunotherapy)
  • Topical or oral corticosteroids
  • Antihistamine medications 
  • Anti-itch creams 

No matter how minor or how severe your rash may be, the team at Sanford Dermatology is diligent about helping you receive the effective rash treatment you need.

Schedule your rash evaluation at Sanford Dermatology directly through the online booking system or over the phone with your most convenient office location.