During the summer, you likely spend more time outdoors. Perhaps you spend a day at the beach, lake, or pool, or maybe you go on a long hike. By spending so much time outside, you increase your exposure to sunlight, insects, and other things that can cause itchy or painful rashes. Sometimes, the cause of the rash may be a mystery, but this article intends to explain the unexpected causes of summer rashes. 

You can easily prevent sunburn by taking the proper precautions. How do you prevent rashes, though? From swimmer’s itch and hot tub rash to polymorphous light eruption, we give you the low-down on common yet surprising causes of rashes during summer. 

Swimmer’s Itch

Swimmer’s itch differs from seabather’s eruption (covered later) because it occurs in areas not covered by swimwear. Microscopic parasites from infected snails that live in the shallow waters of lakes, streams, or the ocean can burrow in the skin. That causes an allergic reaction that looks like tiny red bumps or large welts. The parasites ultimately die in the skin because we are dead-end hosts, but the problem is that these bumps cause intense itching. Relieve the itch by taking an Epsom salt bath or a bath with ground oatmeal. You can also apply baking soda paste to the affected area to soothe the skin.

Heat Rash

Heat rash, or miliaria or prickly heat, occurs when sweat blocks the pores in your skin and starts to build up under the skin. This is a common problem in babies, but it can occur at any age, especially in hot and humid weather. Heat rash usually stings and itches, and you can identify it by small red bumps or clear blisters that break easily. You will see a rash in areas where you sweat more, for example, the armpits, elbows, and groin. Heat rash typically clears on its own, but you can ease itchiness by wearing loose-fitting clothing and cooling off the skin.

Margarita Dermatitis 

Unfortunately, drinking this classic alcoholic beverage that is either frozen or on the rocks will not cause a skin condition. That said, a dribble of citrus juice on the skin, which has been exposed to the sun, can lead to a nasty burn. This burn is known as margarita dermatitis, or phytophotodermatitis. This happens when a photosensitizing compound (furocoumarin) in limes and other citrus fruits, parsley, dill, and celery becomes activated by UVA light. That reaction causes a burning rash that develops within hours. 

It’s possible to develop blisters or red, itchy patches on the skin. Symptoms will be at their worst within two to three days. While the blisters heal, the skin may become darker, which can take months to go away. Just be careful when you handle citrus immediately after being in the sun. 

Polymorphous Light Eruption

If you have a sensitivity to sunlight and expose your skin to UV rays in late spring and early summer, you may break out in itchy, hive-like bumps. This phenomenon is known as polymorphous light eruption (PLE). According to research, PLE affects 10% of the general population. Those affected most likely live in northern versus southern climates. Researchers note that PLE occurs about 75% of the time in females between ages 20 and 40. People with fairer skin are also more susceptible. 

PLE is a hypersensitive reaction to the sun that will typically go away within 10 days. It usually only occurs once each season, when the weather warms up and the skin gets exposed to UV light. It tends to get better over the course of summer, but be careful on beach days or sunny vacations. If you want to relieve the itch, ask your healthcare professional about an anti-itch or antihistamine cream. Severe cases may call for a topical corticosteroid. 

Seabather’s Eruption

If you notice a rash under your swimsuit after a dip in the ocean, you may have seabather’s eruption, or pica-pica (Spanish for “itchy itchy”) or sea lice. This usually occurs when tiny thimble jellyfish and sea anemones get trapped under your swimsuit. They release stinging cells that inject a toxin, which causes an allergic reaction in the skin. You may notice a prickly sensation while swimming, but you’ll notice a reaction within four to 24 hours. It will look like a patch of insect bites or hives under your swimsuit. Make sure to remove your swimsuit and shower immediately after a swim in the ocean. Rinse your suit thoroughly in hot water to remove any remaining organisms, and consider an antihistamine if you notice something. 

Hot Tub Rash

About one to two days after you soak in water contaminated with Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which is found in the ground and water, you can develop a skin rash: hot tub folliculitis. This skin rash gets its name because it is more common in hot tubs. The reason for that is because hot water breaks down the chlorine that kills bacteria. The rash can also occur after swimming in a contaminated lake or pool. A hot tub rash is characterized by tiny millimeter-sized red bumps that are worse in areas that were covered by the swimsuit. You may notice itchy or tender pimples around hair follicles. The rash usually gets better on its own, but a doctor visit may be necessary if it doesn’t go away within a few days.

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Babies all around the world experience diaper rash. It’s nerve-wracking for parents and painful or irritating for the baby. As a parent, you don’t want to see your child in pain, so you try to remedy the rash with healing lotions and ointments. Since many of those lotions contain harmful chemicals, it is better to use natural ingredients to soothe irritation and get rid of the rash.

Understanding Why Diaper Rash Occurs

You have to understand the causes of diaper rash if you want to prevent it. The most common cause of diaper rash is the containment of moisture, warmth, and growth of organisms within the diaper. Candida or yeast, which is present in stool, is typically the growth. This is not always the cause of the rash, though. Some children have food sensitivities or allergies to certain materials. Chronic diaper rash, for instance, is most commonly attributed to a food allergen. Finding the allergen can take time, but there are ingredients that can remedy the situation in the meantime.

Beeswax For Diaper Rash

Beeswax has numerous benefits, one of the primary ones being that it nourishes the skin. Loaded with anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and germicidal properties, beeswax can help fight diaper rash and soothe the skin. While there are dozens of lotions that contain beeswax, go straight to the source and incorporate it into a homemade salve.

Calendula For Diaper Rash

The recipe for this DIY diaper rash salve calls for infused calendula oil. Traditionally, calendula flowers have been used in herbal remedies for their medicinal properties. The antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties are especially beneficial for wounds, burns, rashes, infection, and inflammation. Research suggests that calendula is better for diaper rash than aloe vera gel, but some children may be more sensitive to it.

DIY Diaper Rash Salve

Ingredients For The Calendula Infused Oil:

• ½ cup dried calendula flowers
• 1 cup sweet almond oil

Ingredients For The Salve:

• 1 cup calendula infused oil
• ¼ cup beeswax
• 1 tablespoon marshmallow root
• 1 tablespoon chickweed
• 1 tablespoon comfrey rot
• 1 teaspoon barberry root powder

Instructions For The Calendula Infused Oil:

• Add the calendula flowers and sweet almond oil to a pint-sized mason jar.
• Make sure that the flowers are completely submerged in the oil.
• Cover the jar and allow it to sit in a sunny windowsill for one month.
• Strain the flowers and reserve the oil in a jar for your diaper salve.

Instructions For The Salve:

• Add the infused oil, marshmallow root, chickweed, comfrey root, and barberry root powder to a small saucepan over low heat. You do not want to cook the herbs, so make sure that it is very low heat.
• Let the herbs infuse for 10 minutes and then add the beeswax. Stir the beeswax occasionally until it is completely melted.
• Strain the herbs through a cheesecloth into a glass measuring cup with a pour spout.
• Quickly pour the mixture into jars or small tins for storage. Allow the mixture to harden in the tins before screwing the tops on. Store in a cool dry place and use as needed.

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That sharp, prickly plant that grows in the driest and harshest conditions, appearing as if it’s something that could be used as a weapon rather than a lifesaver, is packed with medicinal benefits. Today, aloe vera has become a household name, but unbeknownst to many it can be used for much more than a simple skin moisturizer or sunburn remedy. The best part is that we’ve yet to reach the apex of the plant’s true potential.

What Is Aloe Vera?

Aloe vera has been referred to as “the wonder plant,” and for good reason. Aloe is a genus that contains more than 500 species of flowering succulents, lots of which are prevalent in North Africa. Aloe vera has been used for centuries; in fact, the earliest account of human use for aloe vera is documented in the Ebers Papyrus. This Egyptian manual documents aloe vera being used therapeutically on the skin, and it was referred to as “the plant of immortality.” Aloe vera’s gel is cultivated worldwide for the countless medicinal benefits. It can also be used to replace common items found in most medicine cabinets, and you can learn more about that below.

Mouthwash

Most people are unaware of the dangers of using conventional mouthwash. The reason for this is because these dangers aren’t showcased. Why would they be? You may not know about them until a regular doctor’s visit leaves you wondering, “How the heck did I develop oral cancer? I brush everyday, and I even use…mouthwash.”

Not only does mouthwash mask bad breath and fight cavities, but it also kills the healthy bacteria in your mouth to make the mouth dry, which is, interestingly enough, one of the main reasons for halitosis. The constant swishing and gargling of mouthwash, which was initially developed as a surgical antiseptic, irritates the soft tissue in the mouth.

Aloe vera very is a safe and effective alternative to conventional mouthwash, given that it contains anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It works to kill fungi, bacteria, and viruses and provide strong, healthy gums. Aloe vera may help reverse the effects of gingivitis and periodontal disease. Since it is natural and non-toxic, there’s no need to fret if you accidentally swallow it.

Laxative Remedy

Just a few sips of aloe vera juice can help soothe your digestive problems. The naturally occurring anthraquinones in aloe vera gel can ease stomach congestion, remedy ulcers, and improve prostate health. Just add one or two tablespoons of 100% pure aloe vera juice to your morning smoothie or juice blend every day for some much needed digestive assistance.

Aftershave

Depending on the person and shaving technique, shaving the hair off your sensitive skin can sometimes result in razor bumps. The cool moisturizing properties of aloe vera can help reduce inflammation and close pores. It also helps relieve itchy or irritated skin, along with ingrown hairs. If you are attempting to make a transition to use more natural plant-based products, aloe vera is the most cost-effective option out there for aftershaves. Simply apply some fresh aloe vera onto the area of skin that you shaved, let it sit for 5-10 minutes, and rinse with cold water.

Rash/Eczema Cream

People with eczema or other skin rashes can be prescribed various creams, which are commonly infused with “natural botanicals.” Those botanicals are usually mixed with unnatural fragrances that can worsen your skin condition. Cut out the fillers and get the full effects of the botanicals by using fresh aloe vera, which has been known to relieve the itchy, swelling, and burning sensation that comes with eczema and other types of rashes. Use it twice a day on the effected area for the best results.

Makeup Remover

Conventional makeup removers have high amounts of alcohol, and using them can dry out the skin. Oil-based removers might clog your pores, depending on the sensitivity of your skin. There’s no need to clog pores or dry out the skin when aloe vera offers the same results without the side effects. Just add a few drops of aloe vera juice to a cotton pad and wipe the blush, foundation, or mascara off your face.

Athlete’s Foot Remedy

Aloe Vera is packed with disinfecting properties, which can help kill the bacteria that cause athlete’s foot. The concentrated minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants in Aloe Vera help fight and prevent foot fungi, while simultaneously moisturizing cracked heels and toes.

Psoriasis Treatment

Not enough can be said about this plant’s ability to soothe the skin. The lubricating agent in aloe vera is known to help combat psoriasis flare-ups, keeping the skin hydrated and moisturized. Just apply a decent amount of the gel to the affected area several times a day to help relieve the discomfort and dryness that comes with the condition. Even creams that contain aloe have been proven to work better than those without it, but why buy creams when you can use the original source?

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Some beverages contain a world of health benefits. You may even be unaware of how much you are helping your body by drinking such a magical drink. We are referring to chamomile tea, of course. It can benefit the body in different ways, both externally and internally. You can use fresh flowers or tea bags as a topical solution, or you can sip to your health.

Chamomile tea has powerful antimicrobial properties, which work to fight microorganisms that try to contaminate the body. It also contains anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants, which help to combat free radicals in the body. Additionally, you can intake essential vitamins, minerals, and healthy flavonoids when you drink chamomile tea.

You can brew chamomile tea with fresh chamomile flowers or tea bags. If you wish to sweeten the tea, use agave, stevia, or raw honey; it shouldn’t need a lot of sweetening, though.

Great For Allergies & Rashes

The anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties work to soothe the irritation and help the body naturally heal. Brew a half-cup of chamomile tea and let it cool to room temperature. Dip a cotton ball in the tea, squeeze to remove extra liquid, and gently apply to the rash or allergy. Repeat until you finish the half-cup. Do this daily until your skin is healthy.

Helps Get Rid Of Mouth Ulcers

Chamomile can’t take all the credit here because you are actually going to brew it with sage tea. The healthy flavonoids work to fight the bacteria in the mouth to remedy the ulcers. Brew 1 cup of each tea, combine them, and gargle the mixture once you can handle the temperature. Do this 3-5 times daily and mouth ulcers will go away.

Calms Conjunctivitis

Chamomile tea is the man for the job when it comes to naturally remedying conjunctivitis. The anti-inflammatory properties help to soothe any soreness or irritation. Brew 1 cup of chamomile tea and remove the tea bag from the water to cool. Once it has cooled, gently press the tea bag on your eye(s). Do this about 3 times every day to provide relief.

Time For Bed

If you have trouble going to sleep or have insomnia, drinking chamomile tea can help calm your nerves and put you to bed. Chamomile tea almost acts as a mild, all-natural tranquilizer! Prepare one cup of chamomile tea and drink it about 1.5-2 hours before bed. You can drink several cups in the evening if you suffer from insomnia.

Goodbye Stomach Cramps

If you suffer from stomach cramps, there is no better herbal remedy than chamomile tea. The soothing antispasmodic qualities of chamomile tea help to get rid of stomach cramps. Brew 4 tablespoons of fresh chamomile flowers in 1 cup of water. Let the flowers steep for 5 minutes and then strain the liquid. Drink the tea twice daily to get rid of stomach cramps.

Gets Rid Of Dark Circles

Got dark circles under your eyes? Never fear, chamomile is here. Applying the chamomile tea bags on your eyes can help get rid of these dark circles. Brew one cup of water with one chamomile tea bag. Let the tea bag steep for 5 minutes before removing to cool. Press the tea bag on your eye(s) for about 10 minutes. And then drink the tea for more benefits!

Glowing Skin

Say goodbye to expensive cosmetic treatments and start using chamomile to get glowing facial skin. All you need to do is take two chamomile tea bags and steep them in a half-cup of olive oil for a few minutes. Dip your fingers in the oil and gently massage your face with it. Rinse with natural soap and warm water.

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We live in a world of chemicals, preservatives, bacteria, and environmental pollutants. Whether it is via your diet or the environment, chemicals and toxins enter the body and begin chipping away at your health. You may pass off certain symptoms as normal life, but we can assure you that they are not.

Do you frequently feel fatigued, constipated, or have indigestion? These are small indications that your body needs to detox, and those symptoms are just the tip of the iceberg. When you detox the body with a full body cleanse, you flush toxins out of your body and rejuvenate your systems and organs. The benefits of a detox include weight loss, more energy, mental clarity, improved digestion, better skin health, and better sleep.

Listen to your body and take care of it. If you have 3 or more of the following, it’s time to cleanse.

#1: Constipation

Constipation indicates that something isn’t functioning smoothly in the digestive system. A lot of waste can accumulate in the colon, which can lead to a number of diseases. By participating in a colon cleanse or full body detox, you can help eliminate this waste, establish better digestion, and have regular bowel movements.

#2: Overweight/Weight Loss Troubles

Weight loss can be tricky if you aren’t eating the right foods, because you continually flood your body with toxins. Introducing healthier foods is part of any cleanse, and these foods can help clean house, so to speak, and get the body fresh, which makes losing weight easier.

#3: Skin Rashes or Patches

If you have skin problems, you may try to remedy them with topical solutions. While this may provide relief, it may not get to the root of the problem. Cleansing the body helps address the primary cause to improve your skin health. One thing to note is that cleansing can sometimes cause rashes or break outs, but this is a sign of toxins leaving the body.

#4: Frequent Headaches

When you get a headache, your body is trying to tell you that something is wrong. Regular headaches are a sign to detox the body. They might be a symptom of another problem in the body, which is caused by toxic build-up. Clean out your system to eliminate the impurities that cause headaches.

#5: Insomnia

Sleep is an important part of life, and it is the body’s way of recuperating. If you’ve been drinking stimulants such as energy drinks, soda, or coffee, your sleep schedule can suffer. Toxins in the body may upset its natural rhythm, so try detoxing to improve your sleep.

#6: Weakened Immune Systems

When the body is flooded with toxins, it can take a toll on the immune system. This makes you prone to getting sick more often than others. Detoxing can help boost immunity, which ultimately helps to keep your body healthy.

#7: Constant Fatigue

Toxins can weigh you down and make you feel sluggish or constantly fatigued. You may not have the motivation or energy to even walk around the block. This causes you to drink energy drinks or other stimulants, which damage the body. Flush out those toxins with a detox and you’ll feel a whole lot more energized.

#8: Food Cravings

Do you find yourself craving sweets or looking in the fridge late at night? You may be deficient in certain nutrients. The raw foods you’ll eat on a cleanse help give your body the nutrients it needs, which keeps those cravings far away.

#9: Decreased Libido

Your health has a direct link to your sex life. If you are having any problems in the bedroom, eliminating toxins from your body with a cleanse can help rejuvenate your sexual organs. This will help nourish your reproductive system.

#10: Bloating/Gas

Abdominal bloating and gas are a direct result of the foods you put into your body. If you are putting unhealthy, toxic foods like dairy, meat, or processed foods in the body, you may feel bloated or gassy. A cleanse can help establish better digestion, get you on a healthy diet, and help release water weight or excess gas.

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A rash is an irritation of the skin. Irritation can have many causes and can be internal or external. Rashes can cause the skin to turn red, swell, and sometimes even blister. Rashes can be very itchy and bothersome, depending on their severity.

Rashes are generally not a serious condition, but occasionally they can require attention. Determining the cause of the rash is the first step in resolving the issue.

Causes

Skin irritation can have many sources. Irritation caused by outside sources is called contact dermatitis. Contact dermatitis occurs when you come into contact with an irritating substance or object. Some common allergens that can cause skin rashes include:

• Soaps
• Detergents
• Perfumes
• Cosmetics
• Lotions
• Jewelry
• Poisonous plants such as poison ivy, sumac, or oak
• Latex

Reactions can range from very mild itching to a severe allergic reaction. Rashes will generally occur the first time you come in contact with the irritant. It is best to avoid the substances if you notice they trigger rashes.

Rashes can be caused by internal factors as well. Viral infections, bacterial infections and certain medications are some of the most common internal causes. Some conditions that have rashes as a symptom are:

• Herpes zoster
• Fungal infections such as yeast infections
• Impetigo
• Sexually transmitted infections
• Liver disease
• Kidney disease
• Cancer

Chronic skin problems such as acne, eczema, seborrheic dermatitis and psoriasis can cause skin rashes as well.

Certain medications can have a side effect of skin rashes. This is usual a rare side effect, but if you notice changes in your skin while taking medications, you may want to discontinue use. This is the best way to prevent the rash from worsening.

Skin rashes can have emotional and psychological causes too. Excess stress can trigger many reactions in our bodies, one being rashes. Getting your stress under control and learning better ways to cope with the everyday stressors of life can be a great help in alleviate skin rashes.

Healing Naturally

Once you determine the cause of the skin rash you can work to alleviate the problem. Purifying your body on the inside is a great way to start. Fasting, detoxifying, modifying your diet and the use of herbs are a few ways to naturally cleanse your body and reduce skin rashes.

Fasting naturally and automatically purifies the blood. Fasting can be done for any period of time. Fast as long as you feel necessary. This will help to cleanse your systems and restart all your body functions. After a fast, you will feel revitalized and your body will be able to work more efficiently.

Detoxifying with herbs is another great way to cleanse and purify the blood. Some purifying herbs include:

• Manjistha
• Yellow Dock Root
• Burdock Root
• Dandelion Root
• Cerasee
• Red Clover Tops
• Sarsaparilla
• Nettle
• Goldenseal
• Cleavers
• Pau D’Arco
• Chaparral
• Echinacea
• Cranesbill (Alum)
• Rehmannia

Juicing and adding cereal grasses to your diet will help to add vital nutrients to the body. Fresh vegetable juices such as spinach, parsley, cilantro and dandelion are great for the blood. Green foods are rich in chlorophyll and iron which helps cleanse the blood.

Cereal grasses such as barley grass and wheat grass are powerful cleansers. Juicing these grasses in addition to vegetable juices will help to energize and restore the body to health.

Remember that a skin rash is a sign that your body is not agreeing with something you are in contact with. Your body is simply talking to you. But are you listening?

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