When is a rash serious?

Red flags: doesn't fade when pressed, with fever, difficulty breathing, or rapid spread.

Can I use steroid cream on any rash?

Hydrocortisone 0.5% (Pharmacy Medicine) or 1% (Pharmacist Only) may help a small patch of non-infected rash for a short time. Follow the exact pack's directions, and ask a pharmacist or GP before using it on the face or on a child (Sigmacort's label says not in children unless a doctor tells you to, and DermAid's says not under 2 unless a doctor advises it).

How long do rashes last?

Varies by cause. Allergic: days. Viral: 1-2 weeks. Persistent rashes need evaluation.

Should I see a doctor for a rash?

Yes if severe, spreading, with fever, or you're unsure of cause.

Condition guide

Rash

Unexplained rash causing concern or discomfort? Identify common rashes and find appropriate treatment or know when to seek help.

Find the right medicine

Treatment and relief options

Antihistamines for allergic rashes
Hydrocortisone cream (0.5% Pharmacy Medicine or 1% Pharmacist Only) for a small patch of non-infected rash, short term; follow the pack and ask a pharmacist or GP before using it on the face or a child
Moisturiser for dry skin rashes
Avoid irritants and allergens
Cool compresses for relief

When to get help

Rash with difficulty breathing, wheezing, or swelling of the tongue or throat: call Triple Zero (000)
Red or purple spots or bruise-like marks that don't fade when pressed (glass test), especially with fever, headache or stiff neck: call Triple Zero (000)
Rash with high fever
Blistering or peeling skin
Rapidly spreading rash

Good to know

Not sure what kind of rash it is?

Start here for a rash you cannot yet explain. Causes include infections, allergic reactions, immune conditions and medicines; in children, most are viral. If the rash is raised, itchy welts or appeared after touching a new product, see allergic rash. If you are itchy but can see little on the skin, see itchy skin. A medicine allergy rash can appear within 2 weeks of starting a new medicine, so note any recent changes. See a doctor if a rash is not getting better, is spreading or is getting worse.

How to do the glass test

Press the side of a clear drinking glass, or a finger, against the spots. A meningococcal rash of red or purple pinprick spots, or larger bruise-like areas, does not turn skin-coloured under pressure. If spots do not fade and the person has a fever, headache, stiff neck or back pain, call Triple Zero (000) and ask for an ambulance. Don't wait for spots: the rash can be a late sign, and suspected meningococcal disease always needs an emergency department. A rash with difficulty breathing, wheezing, swelling of the tongue or throat, dizziness or collapse also needs 000. For non-urgent advice, call healthdirect on 1800 022 222, 24 hours a day.

Sources: healthdirect — Rashes; healthdirect — Meningococcal disease

Frequently asked questions

Allergies, infections (viral/bacterial), eczema, heat, or irritants. Many rashes are harmless but some need medical attention.

Related conditions

Allergic Rash Itchy Skin Sunburn

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Medical disclaimer

This information is general in nature and isn’t a substitute for professional medical advice. Always read the label and follow the directions for use. Talk to your pharmacist or doctor about what’s right for you.