Skin Problems & Treatments Health Center

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If the diagnosis is unclear, your doctor may do a potassium hydroxide (KOH) test to make sure the rash is not caused by a fungal infection. A skin sample may be taken from the infected area and examined under the microscope (biopsy). If the diagnosis is unclear in a sexually active person, a test for syphilis is often done.

How is it treated?

Pityriasis rosea will usually go away in 6 to 8 weeks without treatment. If the rash itches, you may wish to use skin lotions and lubricants to soothe itching. If symptoms are severe, anti-inflammatory medicines such as corticosteroids may be used to relieve itching and reduce the rash. Some people may try other medicines, such as antifungals, because the rash looks like ringworm. But because pityriasis rosea is not caused by a fungus, these medicines are not effective.

Exposing the rash to sunlight may make it go away more quickly. But exposing your skin to the sun too long can result in sunburn and increase your risk of skin cancer.

If the rash lasts more than 3 months, contact your doctor.

To relieve itching at home:

• Keep the itchy area cool and moist. Apply washcloths soaked in ice water. But remember that repeated wetting and drying will actually dry out your skin. Dry skin can make itching caused by a rash worse.
• Avoid taking hot showers or baths. Keep the water as cool as you can tolerate.
• Try an oatmeal bath, such as Aveeno Colloidal Oatmeal bath, to help relieve itching. You may also wrap 1 cup of oatmeal in a cotton cloth and boil as you would to cook oatmeal. Use this as a sponge and bathe in cool water without soap.
• Try an over-the-counter 1% hydrocortisone cream for small itchy areas. Use the cream very sparingly on the face or genitals. Note: Do not use the cream on children younger than age 2 unless your doctor tells you to. Do not use in the rectal or vaginal area in children younger than age 12 unless your doctor tells you to.
• Try an over-the-counter antihistamine, such as chlorpheniramine maleate (Chlor-Trimeton) or diphenhydramine (Benadryl). Don't give antihistamines to your child unless you've checked with the doctor first.
• Apply a moisturizer or calamine lotion to the skin while it is damp.
• Wear cotton or silk clothing. Avoid wearing wool and acrylic fabrics next to your skin.
• Use as little soap as possible. Use gentle soaps, such as Basis, Cetaphil, or Dove. Avoid deodorant soaps when you have a rash.