A skin rash is an area of inflammation, or a change in the texture or color of the skin (e.g., redness, itching, raised bumps). The condition can result from a range of sources, including irritation, disease or a reaction (allergic or non–allergic) to foods, chemicals, plants, animals, insects or other environmental factors. Children and infants often have skin rashes that are harmless, but some rashes are more serious and require prompt medical treatment.

A rash may be a sign of a generalized, non–skin problem originating elsewhere in the body, simply manifesting itself, but not originating, in the skin.

The visible characteristics, location, distribution, shape, pattern changes and accompanying symptoms vary depending on the cause and type of the rash. Skin rashes can appear on the entire body or be confined to specific areas. They can last for a short time or they can recur. They may or may not be contagious.

Skin rashes are usually not dangerous. However, all children with rashes should be examined by a pediatrician to diagnose an appropriate treatment. Many rashes heal without treatment, but some are potentially life–threatening and require emergency care. Numerous childhood diseases have bacterial or viral causes and have a rash of some type as an evident symptom.

While a variety of skin rash relief products are available over–the–counter, these types of treatment should not be used without first consulting a pediatrician. If the skin rash is being caused by an allergy, treatment focuses on identifying and avoiding the allergen triggering the reaction. Medications are available to help relieve the discomfort associated with skin rashes and to help the rashes heal more quickly.