Runner's rash?

After an 8k run (which I actually racewalked) I noted a wide band of small red, slightly raised eruptions on my chest and extending to part of my back. They have not itched or caused pain, thankfully, but now they have a small scab or black tip. What's up here? It does not seem to be shingles or other conditions I have read about, but there may be an element of stress at play too. The race was cold and in the rain, and I've been under what you might call "climate stress" because our lousy spring.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
I cannot confirm anything without examination but it can be due to contact dermatitis. Avoid using any lotions and creams over the skin for the meantime. Wash your skin with a mild cleanser with moisturizing properties like Cetaphil or Dove. Pat it dry. Then apply a good hypoallergenic moisturizer over the area and see if this improves.If the symptoms still persist then you can apply mild steroid like dermacort.

If the symptoms persist then pls get it evaluated from a dermatologist.

I hope that helps. Take care and pls do keep me posted on how you are doing or if you have any additional queries. Kind regards.