Your skin turns red in response to inflammation, the body's reaction to sun damage, allergens or other irritants. Increased vascular activity surrounding sensitive skin tissue causes rapid moisture loss, leaving your skin dry and itchy. A peeling sunburn, allergic rash and chronic dermatitis might require different treatment regimens, according to the University of Virginia Health System. Diagnosing the cause of your skin inflammation will help you choose the home remedies that will do the most good and the least harm to your skin.
Poison Ivy
You can cure contact dermatitis caused by an allergic reaction to poison ivy or another substance in a week or two with a combination of home remedies. The UV Health System suggests first washing your hands, clothes and shoes to contain the rash. Oils from the plant can spread if another person touches them, or you can irritate another part of your body. The Mayo Clinic says that before you consult a doctor, you can apply cool compresses to the area of skin inflammation or take an oatmeal bath to quell the itching. Calamine lotion or hydrocortisone cream (1 percent) can be applied to sensitive skin after you dry off.
Eczema
Red skin that comes and goes on your face, arms, legs or elsewhere on your body could be eczema. Home remedies can't cure chronic eczema, but they can ease the symptoms of skin inflammation and itching. The American Academy of Dermatology suggests basic, gentle skin care to cleanse and hydrate sensitive skin. Some ingredients in soaps and cleansers can make red skin worse. When skin is painful or broken, reduce redness by cleansing daily with lukewarm water only, rather than soap and hot or cold water. Follow up with a moisturizing cream or ointment as often as necessary to relieve dryness throughout the day. The AAD also says an oatmeal bath can soothe cases of eczema on the body.
Sunburn
Sunburn pain can be alleviated by reducing skin inflammation. Bring down your epidermal temperature quickly, the Mayo Clinic advises, by taking a cool shower or bath. The moisture helps replenish sensitive skin, and the short break from clothing abrasion feels good. For longer-lasting remedies, take an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drug, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, as you soak a towel in cool water. Apply the moist compress to red skin. The Mayo Clinic recommends using a moisturizing lotion or cream, particularly one that contains aloe vera, after you treat the inflammation.
Member Comments