itchy rash! HELP!

[mandaaxox1993]

I went to the beach the other day, and had gotten a very bad sunburn (in the outline of my two-piece bathing suit-oops) and two days later, I woke up with a rash in the areas of my body which were not burnt, which include under my chin, around my chest (where my bathing suit covered) and also behind my knees. It is speckled, and has become very itchy and is spreading as the day goes on. What is it, and how do I make it go away!? HELP!

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
It can be due to solar urticaria, sweat dermatitis, heat rash or contact dermatitis. I suggest you to consult a dermatologist and get it evaluated. Till that time, you can take some OTC oral antihistamine medications like Benadryl or Claritin and see if it helps.

For mild-moderate symptoms a weak steroid may be used (e.g. hydrocortisone as dermacort), whilst more severe cases require a higher-potency steroid (e.g. clobetasol propionate, fluocinonide).But they are available under prescription and should be taken only after consulting a dermatologist. Also use mild soaps and apply calamine lotion for soothing the skin.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your dermatologist. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.

[aannie12334]

im not quite sure what this could be.. sounds like a side effect from the sun burn.. i would suggest seeing a dr right away as some sunburns can be very serious! next time youre out at the beach dont forget sunblock! and if its a tan youre wanting there are some sunblocks that do have a tanning agent in them! best of luck!