What's That Rash?

Lichen simplex chronicus

Looks: Red and irritated, eventually taking on a brown, leathery appearance after too much scratching.
Caused by: Doctor's don't know exactly, but it begins when something irritates the skin, and the more you scratch it, the more it itches.
Feels: Itchy, itchy, itchy.
Contagious: No.
Where: Ankles, wrists, neck, rectum, arms, legs, back of the knee, inner elbow.
Treatment: Stop scratching! We know that's easier said than done. You may need help from an anti-itching cream, such as hydrocortisone, as well as antihistamines or even tranquilizers prescribed by your doctor. Salicylic acid medications may be used on thickened lesions.
See a doctor if: The itching worsens, or your skin starts to get infected (you experience pain or fluid leaks from the lesion).

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