How can you tell if a rash is caused by an allergic reaction?
It is an allergic reaction if it is sudden and keeps spreading over hours. Then, you look at what you have eaten, worn or done differently over the past few days. Taking benedryl can help alleviate some of the reaction, but once you’ve been exposed to a “toxin” it takes a few days to pass it. Oatmeal baths and Aveeno anti-itch creams help. OTC 1% cortisone cream can also help, but not for long term. Avoid spray on “–caines.” Major culprits for me are soaps with bleach, makeup, lotions, new clothing/sheets/towels and new meds. Try putting a cup of white vinegar into your final rinse cycle to get the soap residue out.
