why do i have red patches and white spots?

over a month again I developed white spots on my shoulders and arms. I didn't take care of it because it wasn't really bad. A few weeks ago I began to develop red spots on my buttocks, chest and arms, shoulders and some back. Overall it doesn't look that bad. The buttocks is the largest area (a little larger than my fist). when I take a hot shower they all stand out really bad though! They are a little itchy and sometimes feel irritated. I've used hydrocortizone cream and some tea tree oil but it really hasn't changed. I just started put on some anti-fungal cream, but not much change yet. I can't get to a dermatologist till next week. I'm kinda worried though. I've never had anything like this!

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,

Without examination,confirmation of a diagnosis is tough but it can be contact dermatitis,rash due to friction rub with clothes, dermatitis (atopic, contact, allergic), eczema,excessive sweating causing sweat dermatitis or due to an underlying infection (bacterial and fungal as well as other organisms) .White patches on shoulders can be due to pityriasis versicolor or vitiligo.

You may try calamine lotion on the rash. You should also maintain hygiene and try to keep the area clean and dry, wear loose-fitting cotton clothing. Also use an antibacterial soap or mild soap like dove.Avoid any kind of cosmetics. You can also use a barrier cream with zinc oxide paste or a mild steroid cream like dermacort on the rash.If the rash is itchy,you can take some antihistaminic like benadryl or Claritin.
If the rash persists then it will be best to get it evaluated from a dermatologist.

Hope it helps .Take care and pls do keep us posted in case you have any additional queries.Kind regards.