What is a facial rash?

A facial rash is an inflammatory reaction of the skin of the face. Facial rashes can be caused by a wide variety of mild to serious diseases, disorders and conditions. In some situations the presence of facial rash is a warning for other problems elsewhere in the body, such as systemic lupus. Facial rashes can affect a small to large area of the face and can occur in all age groups and populations.

Facial rashes can vary greatly in appearance, location and severity depending on the underlying cause. Facial rashes may or may not be itchy and can be red, white, purple or silver in color. The texture of a facial rash can be flat, raised, bumpy, or scaly and include flaking off or peeling of skin cells. Facial rashes can appear as dots or spots or occur over a large, solid continuous area.

Common causes of facial rashes include acne, dermatitis, mild allergic reactions, and inflammatory disorders. Many facial rashes do not cause any permanent harm and can be treated successfully by following the treatment plan outlined by your health care provider.

A facial rash of purple spots (petechiae) with a fever and stiff neck can indicate a serious, potentially life-threatening condition, such as bacterial meningitis. A facial rash that is associated with allergies combined with shortness of breath, wheezing, or swelling of the face, lips or tongue is a symptom of a serious, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you, or someone you are with, have any of these symptoms.


What other symptoms might occur with a facial rash?

A facial rash can occur by itself or with other symptoms, which vary depending on the underlying disease, disorder or condition. Other symptoms can affect the digestive tract, respiratory system, nervous system, reproductive system, cardiovascular system, or immune system. For example, you may have a fever and oth... Read more about facial rashsymptoms


What causes a facial rash?

Facial rashes can be caused by a wide variety of diseases and conditions, including infection, inflammation, allergic reaction, and autoimmune processes. A sudden or acute facial rash may be due to an allergic reaction or sensitivity to a particular substance, such as a facial moisturizer, food, or medication.

A chronic or long-term facial rash may be caused by such conditions as ac... Read more about facial rashcauses


This Article is Filed Under: Infections and Contagious Diseases

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