The World vs. Your Skin: Itching, Burning Questions Answered

Rains in Los Angeles bring flowers and skies washed clear of particulates—for a while, anyway—but they also mark a season bursting with elements that can make your skin red, itchy, and uncomfortable. If you’re worried about a rash, you can always bring it to the Skin Care & Laser Physicians of Beverly Hills team of dermatologists. Here are several potential causes to be aware of:

• Mosquitoes. These annoying pests need standing water to breed, so any flowerpot, clogged rain gutter, or hidden puddle that just won’t dry out can be prime territory for the insects to multiply. Sensitivity to mosquito bites varies from person to person, with reactions ranging from barely a blip to significant swelling and redness. A bite (or even several) can typically be distinguished from a rash due to the distinct bumps where the bugs drew blood.

• Poison ivy and poison oak. New growth in the wilder areas of Southern California means new opportunities to encounter unfriendly plants on trails. Skin that brushes against the leaves of any hostile plant can soon erupt into red, crusty patches that itch or burn. The oils from these leaves can also transfer to clothing, which can then impact the skin when touched later. Topical solutions are available to help with unhappy hikers who had an unfortunate run-in with defensive vegetation.

• Wool. Cool mornings can quickly give way to warmer afternoons, which means layers are the way to go. Short sleeves under a comfy wool sweater allow the natural material to sit in direct contact with bare arm skin for hours—and not everyone’s skin likes that. Contact dermatitis occurs when touching a material triggers irritation. Fibers themselves may be to blame, though other culprits can be detergents, soaps, lotions, and even certain types of metal.

Fortunately, you don’t have to be an expert at skin conditions. If you have a mysterious rash, the Skin Care & Laser Physicians of Beverly Hills dermatologists can help you to determine the cause of unexplained redness and discomfort.

Find out more about diagnosing and treating skin conditions in the Los Angeles area. Send a message to the practice online, or call 310-246-0495 to arrange a consultation.