Rash treatment available online today

In order to treat your rash, consult with one of our board-certified doctors online today to prescribe the right corticosteroid or antihistamine medication for you. Get a new prescription to treat your rash or refill an existing prescription today.*

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Manage Rash symptoms online

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*Prescriptions are provided at the doctor’s discretion. Learn more about our controlled substances policy and how you can save up to 80% with our prescription discount card. PlushCare doctors cannot treat all cases of rashes. Our primary care physicians can conduct an initial evaluation of your symptoms but may need to refer you to a specialist or for in-person treatment. If you are experiencing life-threatening symptoms, seek emergency medical attention immediately.

Learn about rashes

A rash is an area of irritated or swollen skin on the body. Many skin rashes are itchy, painful, and appear differently on different skin tones. While rashes are typically described as red, they may look purple, gray, or white on different skin tones.

Although most rashes are not life-threatening, some rashes can signal more serious health problems. If you experience any symptoms of a skin rash, it’s important to talk to your doctor for a proper diagnosis.

Rash causes

  • Skin rashes are also called dermatitis, a general term that describes skin inflammation. Contact dermatitis happens when your skin comes into contact with something that causes inflammation, such as:

    •Chemicals in rubber, latex, and elastic products

    •Cosmetics, soaps, and laundry detergents

    •Dyes and other chemicals in clothing

    •Poison ivy, poison oak, or sumac


  • Another type of dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, appears in red patches around the face. If seborrheic dermatitis happens on your scalp, you might notice dandruff. The causes of seborrheic dermatitis include:

    •High stress levels

    •Fatigue

    •Hot and cold extremes

    •Infrequent shampooing

    •Harsh soaps, lotions, and skincare products

  • Other common causes of a skin rash include:

    • Eczema (atopic dermatitis)Eczema often affects people with allergies. It causes skin redness and itchiness.

    • PsoriasisPsoriasis leaves red, scaly patches on the joints and along the scalp. It can also cause itchy skin.

    • Impetigo: Impetigo happens when bacteria enter broken skin. The rash begins as red, itchy sores. Over time, these develop into blisters, burst open and leak a clear fluid, and form a yellowish-gold crust.

    • Shingles: Caused by the same virus as chickenpox, shingles usually cause a red rash with small, fluid-filled blisters.

    • Childhood illnesses: Chickenpox, impetigo, scarlet fever, and fifth disease can cause skin rashes in young children.

Rash symptoms

The symptoms of rashes vary depending on the cause of the rash. Some common symptoms of skin rashes include:

  • Itchy skin

  • Raised red welts or small bumps

  • Leathery patches that are darker than usual (hyper-pigmented) on darker skin tones

  • Dry, cracked, scaly areas on lighter skin tones

  • Swelling, burning, or tenderness around the affected area

    While some rashes develop suddenly, others form over several days. Although most rashes go away on their own, other rashes may require long-term treatment.


How to treat a rash

If you notice any symptoms of common skin rashes, the first step is to talk to your doctor. Your doctor may be able to diagnose your rash by asking about your symptoms and performing a physical exam. If you have contact dermatitis, your doctor may recommend a patch test to determine the cause of your rash.

If you have a minor rash, home treatments can relieve itching until your reaction clears up:

  • Apply a cold compress to your rash to relieve mild pain and itching.

  • Take a lukewarm bath in colloidal oatmeal to treat an itchy rash.

  • Apply aloe vera or calamine lotion to soothe painful and itchy skin.

  • Take over-the-counter pain relievers and antihistamines to treat inflammation.

Rash medication

If home remedies don't ease your symptoms, your doctor may prescribe medications to reduce itching and pain. Depending on the cause of your rash, your healthcare provider may prescribe:

How to prevent rashes

Most skin rashes improve with skin care. If you have contact dermatitis, you can lower your risk of rashes by avoiding allergens and irritants. Some effective preventive measures include:

  • Avoid scratching or scrubbing your skin.

  • Use gentle cleansers and skincare products.

  • Avoid applying scented lotions or harsh soaps directly on a rash.

  • Clean your skin with warm (not hot) water.

  • Pat your rash dry instead of rubbing it.

When to see a doctor for a rash

Most rashes are not medical emergencies. However, if a rash occurs, it’s important to talk to your doctor to receive a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. You should also talk to your doctor if:

  • You’re experiencing joint pain, a fever, or a sore throat.

  • The rash comes on suddenly and spreads rapidly.

  • You notice new redness, swelling, or tender areas.

  • You’re taking a new medication.

  • You have a tick bite.

  • Home remedies don’t work or your symptoms worsen.

Seek medical attention or visit the nearest emergency room immediately if:

  • You’re short of breath, experiencing throat tightness, or your face is swollen.

  • Your child has a purple rash that resembles a bruise.

Rash Treatment FAQs

  • What are the most common rashes you treat online?

    Some common skin rashes that can be treated online include:

    • Hives

    • Eczema (atopic dermatitis)

    • Cellulitis

    • Contact dermatitis

    • Insect bites, including spider bites, chiggers, and bed bugs

    • Tinea

  • What can I put on a skin rash?

    What you should (and shouldn’t) put on your rash depends on the type of rash. For example, if you have skin redness from poison ivy, over-the-counter itch creams can help reduce itching.

    Before you start treating your rash with home treatments, meet with a doctor online to get a proper diagnosis.

  • Will a rash go away on its own?

    Yes, most rashes will go away on their own. Rashes typically happen when the skin comes into contact with an irritant, causing inflammation and skin redness. Once the irritant is removed, your skin will likely calm down.

  • Is Vaseline good for rashes?

    Yes, applying Vaseline to your rash can help relieve discomfort, itching, and pain. Avoid applying Vaseline to your rash if you’re allergic to any of the ingredients.

  • How can you tell if a rash is serious?

    Your rash may be serious if:

    • You experience fever and/or pain.

    • Your notice bruise-like lesions on your body, or purple spots on your hands and/or feet.

    • Your rash worsens or doesn’t improve within a few days.

    • Your rash is circular.


    If you experience any of these symptoms, you may have a medical emergency. Seek medical attention or call 911 immediately.

  • What are common rash treatments?

    Common treatments for rashes include:

    • Steroid creams and ointments, such as cortisone creams

    • Moistening lotions and emollients, such as Vaseline and calamine lotion

    • Topical medications, such as cool tar, anthralin, and retinols

    • Prescription medications, such as antibiotics, antihistamines, or pain relievers


    Home remedies can also help relieve itching and soothe skin sensitivity. Some of the best home remedies for skin reactions include:

    • Placing a cool cloth or cold compress on the affected area

    • Taking a lukewarm bath with baking soda or colloidal oatmeal

    • Covering the wound to prevent further irritation

    • Using mild soaps and non-scented lotions on your skin

  • What are common rash causes?

    Several factors can cause rashes, including:

    • Direct contact with allergens or irritants (contact dermatitis)

    • Environmental triggers or genetics (eczema)

    • Poor circulation due to a sedentary lifestyle (stasis dermatitis)

    • High levels of stress

    • Hormonal changes

    • Irritating substances

    • Insect bites or stings

    • Harsh soaps and skincare products

    Medical conditions can also contribute to rashes, such as:

    • Lupus erythematosus (an immune system disease)

    • Rheumatoid arthritis, especially the juvenile type

    • Kawasaki disease (inflammation of the blood vessels)

    • Body-wide (systemic) viral, bacterial or fungal infections

    • Childhood illnesses, including fifth disease, scarlet fever, and chickenpox

    • Chronic skin conditions, such as rosacea or psoriasis

3 simple steps to get treated for rash symptoms today

Step 1: Book an appointment

Step 1

Book a rash treatment appointment.

Book a same day appointment from anywhere.

Step 2: Visit with a doctor on your smartphone

Step 2

Talk to your medical provider regarding your rash symptoms.

Visit with a doctor on your smartphone or computer.

Step 3: pick up at local pharmacy

Step 3

Pick up a prescription for your rash.

We can send prescriptions to any local pharmacy.

Related conditions to rashes

Rash treatment pricing details

How it works

To request rash treatment and get a new prescription or refill on your prescription, join our monthly membership and get discounted visits.

Paying with insurance

Membership

$16.99/month

First month free

Visits

Copay

30 days of free membership

  • Same-day appointments 7 days a week

  • Unlimited messages with your Care Team

  • Prescription discount card to save up to 80%

  • Exclusive discounts on lab tests

  • Free memberships for your family

  • Cancel anytime

Visit price with insurance

Often the same as an office visit. Most patients with in-network insurance pay $30 or less!

  • We accept these insurance plans and many more:

    • Humana
    • Aetna
    • United Healthcare

Paying without insurance

Membership

$16.99/month

First month free

Visits

$129

30 days of free membership

  • Same-day appointments 7 days a week

  • Unlimited messages with your Care Team

  • Prescription discount card to save up to 80%

  • Exclusive discounts on lab tests

  • Free memberships for your family

  • Cancel anytime

Visit price without insurance

Initial visits are $129.

Book an appointment

If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund.

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PlushCare content is reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals. Learn more about our editorial standards and meet the medical team. The PlushCare site or any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.