Common Rashes of the Skin: Part 7 - Intertrigo

Intertrigo describes a rash in the body folds, such as in the folds of the neck, under the arms, under a protruding abdomen, in the groin, underneath the breasts, or between the buttocks. Intertrigo usually presents as red, itchy, burning patches and papules, and occurs in these skin folds. 

It can occur in people of all ages and sexes, but is more common in those that are overweight or obese. Genetics play a role, but environmental factors are the main contributing factors for intertrigo. These skin folds have a relatively higher surface temperature than other areas of the body. Moisture from sweating cannot evaporate due to occlusion. There is also a lack of air circulation in these skin folds. Friction from movement of adjacent skin results in inflammation.

Intertrigo is typically infectious in nature, with the common culprits being yeast, fungi, and bacteria. Treatment involves topical agents against the offending culprit. Sometimes, mild corticosteroids are also used to help with inflammation. In severe cases, oral agents may be used.

Common non-infectious causes for intertrigo include psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and irritant dermatitis. Treatments for these include topical corticosteroids and emollients.

Spring Cleaning for your Skin

There is still time to take advantage of our current promotion - 25% off products that will help clean & exfoliate your skin! 

The SkinMedica AHA/BHA cream has both alpha hydroxy acid and beta hydroxy acid, which work by removing dead skin cells, revealing soft, hydrated skin underneath. It helps diminish the look of fine lines and wrinkles, improves dullness, and improves uneven skin tone & rough texture. This product also contains vitamin E, which is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the skin from free radical damage. There is also Pro-vitamin B5 in the AHA/BHA cream, which helps bind moisture to the skin.

The Theraderm NuPeel is a natural enzyme peel made from papaya enzymes and botanical extracts. It gently removes dead skin cells, revealing radiant skin underneath. The NuPeel is great for especially tough areas such as the hands, elbows, knees, and heels.

Another product that is eligible for this promotion is the SkinCeuticals Blemish + Age Defense. This first-to-market blend contains alpha hydroxy acid, beta hydroxy acid, and dioic acid. This product will not only exfoliate the skin, but will also improve hyperpigmentation & blotchiness, reduce oiliness, and decongest clogged pores.

Stop by any one of our three offices to purchases these great products at a great discount for the month of April!

Common Rashes of the Skin: Part 6 - Seborrheic Dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that occurs most frequently in areas with the most sebaceous glands, such as the T-zone area of the face, scalp, inside the ears, and chest. This condition is linked to Malassezia, a type of yeast. The rash usually presents as scaly red patches, and rarely, as red plaques. The overlying scale can be white or yellow in color. These red patches can itch or burn.

Researchers are still studying what causes this common skin disease. It appears that the cause is complex. Many factors seem to work together to cause seborrheic dermatitis, including the yeast that normally lives on our skin, our genes, living in a cold and dry climate, stress, and a person’s overall health. 

The medications used to treat seborrheic dermatitis include antifungal shampoos and creams, anti-inflammatory creams, and barrier repair creams.

Many infants get cradle cap, which is a form of seborrheic dermatitis. Unlike adult seborrheic dermatitis, the condition usually resolves on its own in infants, usually within 6 months to 1 year of age.

Common Rashes of the Skin: Part 5 - Folliculitis

Folliculitis is a common skin condition in which hair follicles become inflamed. It is usually caused by infection with bacteria or fungi. At first, folliculitis may look like small red bumps or white-headed pimples around hair follicles.The infection can spread and turn into non-healing, crusty sores or large boils. Severe infections can cause permanent hair loss and scarring.

This condition can be triggered by heat and sweat, friction from shaving or wearing tight clothing, and coverings on your skin, such as plastic dressings or adhesive tape.

Some recommendations to prevent flares of folliculitis: Avoid tight clothes to reduce friction. Avoid shaving, if possible. If you must shave, use an electric razor or a clean sharp blade every time you shave. Before shaving, wash your skin with warm water and a mild facial cleanser. Use lubricating shave cream or gel before shaving. Apply moisturizing lotion after shaving. Shave in the direction of hair growth.

Treatments for folliculitis include topical and oral medications to control infection. Minor surgery is sometimes needed for boils arising from folliculitis. Laser hair removal is sometimes recommended for areas with chronic folliculitis and when standard treatments have failed.

Common Rashes of the Skin: Part 4-Urticaria

Urticaria, also known as hives are flesh toned to red colored bumps that are classily itchy. Hives are known to appear quickly and disappear just as fast. They can change shapes, and disappear from one area only to appear in another. Urticaria is a condition that be transient or can last years.

Some of the know causes of urticaria are food allergies, medications, insect bites, infections, environmental allergens, a certain physical stimulation (such as sun exposure, water, heat, cold, pressure/touch, and exercise induced). In some cases, a true cause of the hives is not identifiable.

Treatment it aimed at avoiding aggravating factors if it is able to identified. 

Most cases are treated with OTC and/or prescription antihistamines for a period of time until hives resolve. Some cases require oral anti-inflammatory medications. If hives are recurrent or don’t go away, sometimes allergy testing is used to pinpoint cause of urticaria.

Common Rashes of the Skin : Part 3- Tinea Versicolor

Tinea versicolor (TV) is a common fungal infection affecting mostly adolescents and young adults.  The condition is seen most often in tropical regions where the weather is hot and humid.  Despite the name, TV is not in the same family as ringworm (tinea). Also unlike ringworm, it is not contagious from one person to the next.  Tinea versicolor is caused from a fungus that naturally already lives on many people’s skin, but only causes TV in some individuals.

The term “versicolor” refers to the various skin color changes that may be seen with this condition, including light patches, dark patches, pinkish patches, or a combination.   There may be small scales on the patches, and mild itching may be present.  TV is seen most commonly seen on the trunk, upper arms, and upper legs.

Factors that contribute to development of TV include exposure to hot and humid weather, excessive sweating, and usage of skin oils.  TV is not caused by poor hygiene.

Treatment consists of topical or oral antifungals.  TV responds well to therapy, however it does have a tendency to reoccur.  If TV recurs frequently, preventative measures with washes and/or creams can be used. After treatment, the skin may take months to return to its normal color.

This week blog was written by Quynh-Dao Tonnu , PA Student from Nova Southeastern University

Common Rashes of the Skin: Part 2- Tinea Coporis (AKA Ringworm)

Tinea corporis is a type of fungal infection occurring on skin sites other than the face, hands, feet, or groin.  It is collectively known along with other types of tinea as “ringworm.”  The fungus may be acquired via direct skin contact with a person, animal, or surface that is infected.  It can also be spread from other sites of infection (i.e. hands, feet).  Tinea corporis outbreaks can often be seen among wrestlers or other athletes who have skin to skin contact.

Tinea corporis typically begins as an itchy, scaly, red circular or oval patch that spreads outwardly.  The center subsequently clears, leaving a raised border, thus creating the look of a “ring.”  Occasionally, multiple plaques may join together or there may be pustules.

The diagnosis of tinea corporis is usually obtained  a fungal culture or biopsy.  Treatment consists of either topical or oral antifungal drugs.

Some tips to preventing fungal infections are to always wear sandals or shoes at the gym, pool, and public showers.  Do not share sports gear, unwashed clothes, or towels with others.  After exercise, be sure to wash with soap, and change socks and underwear at least once a day.  Lastly, always dry yourself well after showering or swimming.

Blog written by Quynh-Dao Tonnu, PA Student from Nova Southeastern University