Most Common Summer Rashes

Summer is a great time to be outdoors, but it’s also a time when you can develop a rash due to a number of causes. Here are some of the most common summer rashes and tips for treating them.

Heat Rash

Heat rash is a skin condition that is also called prickly heat and is caused by sweating. It can happen to anyone, but it is more prevalent in younger children.

Heat Rash Symptoms

Symptoms include small bumps on the skin that may be itchy or painful.

Heat Rash Treatment

Heat rash usually goes away on its own. However, you can help relieve the symptoms by keeping your skin cool, dry, and exposed to the air.

Poison Ivy

Poison ivy is a shrub that may produce an itchy, burning rash. Urushiol is the oil in the plant that causes the rash. If you come into contact with poison ivy, immediately wash the area with soap and water. You can also try using calamine lotion to reduce itching.

Other plants that can cause a summer rash include:

• Wild parsnip
• Citrus
• Giant Hogweed

Insect Bites

There are several different types of insects that can cause a summer rash. Mosquitoes are perhaps the most well-known, but fleas, ticks, chiggers, and even some types of ants can also bite and cause a reaction. Insect bites might cause redness, swelling, and itching. In some cases, the bites can even lead to more serious complications, such as anaphylaxis or infection.

To avoid insect bites, use insect repellent and wear long sleeves and pants when going outdoors, particularly in the woods.

Insect Bite Treatment

If you do get bitten by an insect, wash the area with soap and water. Also, apply a cool compress to help relieve any swelling or itchiness. If you have an extreme reaction to an insect bite, seek medical help right away.

Impetigo

Impetigo is a skin infection that mostly impacts children. However, it can also occur in adults. Impetigo is also more common in hotter weather, such as during the summer. The infection is caused by bacteria, and it can spread quickly if it is not treated properly.

Symptoms of Impetigo

Symptoms of impetigo include blisters, sores, and crusting of the skin. The infection is usually not serious, but it can be uncomfortable, and it can spread to other parts of the body.

Impetigo Treatment

Treatment for impetigo typically involves antibiotics. These can be taken orally, or they can be applied directly to the affected area. In most cases, the infection will clear up within a few days. Severe cases may require treatment in a hospital or other medical facility.

Other Summer Rashes

In addition to these rashes, there are others that are less common but could develop with the summer heat and activities.

These include:

• Swimmer’s itch
• Athlete’s foot
• Sun rash
• Sandworm rash
• Hot tub rash

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