Severe facial rashes can occur for a number of reasons such as dermatitis or eczema. Depending upon the cause of the rash, your doctor may prescribe different treatment options such as creams, antibiotics or other medications. If you're unsure of what caused your rash, ask your doctor to perform allergy testing or what may have caused the rash.
Antibiotics
Depending upon the type of rash that you suffer from, your doctor may deem it necessary to prescribe oral or topical antibiotics. In certain instances, oral and topical antibiotics may be necessary to treat the most severe facial rashes. Oral antibiotics treat the rash from within your body while the topical antibiotics treat the rash at the surface layer of your skin. If you suffer from periorificial dermatitis, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics for the course of 6 to 12 weeks, according to DermNet NZ. For reoccurring and persistent rashes, your doctor may prescribe a different antibiotic or ask you to try the same medication again but for a longer period of time.
Topical Corticosteroids
Topical corticosteroids help relieve severe facial rashes by reducing the inflammation and itching associated with the symptoms of the rash, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. They are available in different forms such as lotions, creams or ointments. Topical corticosteroids are available with or without prescription. Over-the-counter topical corticosteroids generally contain a less concentration of the medication. Your doctor may prescribe a topical corticosteroid for the most severe facial rashes since prescription strength medications are more potent. When your doctor prescribes a topical corticosteroid, he will specify the amount of time for you to apply the medication. The stronger the medication, the less time you will have to use it. Generally, a strong potency medication will clear a severe rash within 7 to 10 days. Weaker over-the-counter medications may take two to three weeks to clear your rash.
Oral Corticosteroids
Dermatologists typically prescribe oral corticosteroids as a last option treatment, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Oral corticosteroids are reserved for the most stubborn, severe rashes or ones that do not respond to topical corticosteroids. These medications consist of hydrocortisone, prednisone and methylprednisolone. Serious side effects associated with oral corticosteroids include hypertension, formation of dilated blood vessels, skin thickening and growth retardation in children at the age of two or during puberty. Pregnant women should not take corticosteroids as they can cause birth defects such as cleft palate and cleft lip.
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