Itchy skin is not usually a sign of anything serious. You can often treat it yourself and it will usually go away after a few weeks. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/itchy-skin/
Acne
Acne is a common skin condition that affects most people at some point. It causes spots, oily skin and sometimes skin that’s hot or painful to touch. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/acne/
Shingles
Shingles is an infection that causes a painful rash. Get advice from 111 as soon as possible if you think you have it. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/shingles/
Check if you have shingles
The first signs of shingles can be:
- > a tingling or painful feeling in an area of skin
- > a headache or feeling generally unwell
Hives
Hives rashes usually get better within a few minutes to a few days. You can often treat hives yourself. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/hives/
Check if it’s hives
The main symptom of hives is an itchy rash.
The rash can:
- > be raised bumps or patches in many shapes and sizes
- > appear anywhere on the body
- > be on 1 area or spread across the body
- > feel itchy, sting or burn
- > look pink or red when affecting someone with white skin; the colour of the rash can be harder to see on brown and black skin
Rosacea
Rosacea is a long-term skin condition that mainly affects the face. It’s more common in women and people with lighter skin, but symptoms can be worse in men. Treatment can help with symptoms. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/rosacea/
Check if you have rosacea
The first signs of rosacea include
- > redness (blushing) across your nose, cheeks, forehead and chin that comes and goes
- > a burning or stinging feeling when using water or skincare products
