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How to Get Rid of Red Skin Blotches

Find the causes � and solutions � for your red, blotchy skin.

Red, blotchy skin can be caused by a number of different
conditions � including itchy, allergy-related hives, fungal
infections, and rosacea. Before you start trying to solve the problem, you need to figure out what's causing it, as each condition may require a completely different type of treatment. Here are the main causes of blotchy skin � and how to make it better.

Hives

What it is: Hives are itchy, red blotches that crop up suddenly on your skin. They�re usually caused by stress or an allergic reaction � but they can sometimes appear for no particular reason at all.

Treatment: If you're having an allergic reaction and you can discover the substance that�s causing it, avoiding the substance will usually get rid of the hives. If you can�t figure out what�s making you itch, an antihistamine will help stop the reaction and get rid of the red splotches.

Rosacea

What it is: Rosacea is a skin disorder that's characterized by redness and outbreaks of pimples on the face, and that produces a burning or stinging sensation in the skin.

Treatment: Doctors aren�t sure what causes rosacea, although changes in temperature and the consumption of spicy foods or alcohol are known to bring on outbreaks, so it might be best to avoid these, if at all possible. Antibiotics, in either cream or pill form, can help treat rosacea. More aggressive treatments � the use of retinoids, dermabrasion, and even laser procedures � may be necessary if the red blotches don�t disappear.

Tinea versicolor

What it is: This is a fungal infection that causes small, flat patches on the skin that may be discolored. The spots show up on the oiliest parts of the skin � on the chest, back, and arms.

Treatment: Most people are able to clear up tinea versicolor by using antifungal cleansers or creams. For more stubborn cases, your doctor may prescribe an antifungal medication. Keep in mind, though, that it may take a few months for the skin blotches to fade after the condition has been treated.

Eczema

What it is: Eczema is a very itchy rash that develops into
patches of raw, red, thickened skin. It usually occurs on the skin around the joints � elbows, knees, wrists � and on the face.

Treatment: Start by moisturizing your skin heavily and applying over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream. If this regimen doesn�t work after a week, see your doctor to discuss whether there are more aggressive treatments you might try.