A red rash on your chest can be due to something as simple as contact dermatitis caused by detergent or fabric softener or as complex as an immune system disorder. The appearance of the outbreak can give clues as to its cause. Skin that appears scaly may be the result of one affliction, whereas puffy or blistered skin may be caused by something altogether different. If basic lifestyle changes such as switching soap or moisturizer don't work, a dermatologist can help you determine the right course of treatment.
Dermatitis
Dermatitis is a general term for skin rashes caused by irritation. Contact dermatitis may be due to soap, laundry detergent or fabric softener, with the clothes that rub against your torso irritating the skin of your chest.. Atopic dermatitis is common in dry climates, while seborrheic dermatitis sometimes plagues parts of the body rich in oil-producing sebaceous glands. Lack of B vitamins or too much vitamin A can bring about symptoms of dermatitis, such as itching and redness.
Eczema
Eczema, another cause of skin redness and itching, is believed to be an immune system disorder. Eczema leaves your skin dry, rough, flaky and often quite itchy. Red blotches caused by eczema may later turn dark brown. If you do not properly treat a case of eczema, your skin may crack and break, leaving it vulnerable to bacterial infection. According to MayoClinic.com, eczema may be accompanied by allergies or asthma and usually first presents in childhood, though rare cases do crop up initially in adults. The arms and legs are the parts of the body most commonly affected by eczema, although outbreaks can occur on the chest as well..
Psoriasis
Psoriasis causes a rapid buildup of dry, dead cells that develop a scaly appearance. If the skin on your chest is rough, flaky and sheds easily, psoriasis may be the culprit. This disorder is chronic and that may be accompanied by arthritis. Those suffering from psoriasis may experience thickening of the fingernails and joint stiffness. Outbreaks can occur for weeks or months on end, then cease for a while before ultimately returning. MayoClinic.com reports that psoriasis outbreaks occur when T lymphocyte cells, which usually attack viruses in the body, turn on healthy skin cells instead. Stress and certain prescription medications, such as lithium and beta blockers, may make psoriasis symptoms worse.
Dry Skin
One possible cause of skin itching is dryness related to weather or exposure to the elements. According to the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, exposing skin to harsh cleansers, hot or soapy water, or extreme hot or cold weather can deplete protective skin oils. If your skin becomes too dry, the redness and itching may be due to a resultant case of dermatitis, which can become quite painful if not treated. Use lotion and sunscreen to moisturize your skin and protect it from damaging ultraviolet rays.
Treatment and Prevention
Treating red, blotchy skin may require an over-the-counter cortisone cream or gel. Taking tepid showers, avoiding long hot baths and choosing moisturizing shower gel containing cocoa or shea butter rather than regular soap can help relieve dryness and redness. Always apply lotion after showering, preferably a dye-free, unscented formula made for sensitive skin. Colloidal oatmeal compresses or body wash can help relieve severe itching. Cortisone or antifungal treatments may be necessary for red, blotchy skin that is not helped by regular moisturizing. See a doctor if your skin problem is not resolved by at-home treatments.
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