Any kind of skin rash can be uncomfortable no matter what its underlying cause. It can burn, swell, itch, and feel rough. Over-the-counter skin products can contain tons of artificial ingredients and chemicals which can be harmful rather than bring healing. Essential oils can provide a soothing and natural option. But how do you know which is the best essential oil for an itchy rash?

There are numerous types of rashes and they can be different in terms of color, inflammation, irritation levels and texture. It might be from poison ivy or diaper rash. But it could also be a razor burn. Of course, these types of rashes usually go away in a short time with no treatment at all. But there are other types of rashes and skin conditions like rosacea or eczema that can make daily living embarrassing, uncomfortable and painful. These types of skin conditions can cause pain much deeper than the skin and be emotionally painful. Knowing what type of rash you are suffering from can help you find the best essential oil for an itchy rash.

The Most Common Types of Rashes

There are a variety of rash types and causes. Here are a few of the most commonly experienced skin rashes.

• Eczema –this is a chronic skin condition and most experience dry, red, itchy skin. Most of the time, sufferers experience a localized flare-up in certain parts of the body like the legs, hands, feet, upper body or arms. The medical community hasn’t yet determined the exact cause of eczema but there seems to be a connection between a family history of allergies and this skin condition. Flare-ups are often caused by some types of fabrics, skin care products, the environment or stress.
• Contact Dermatitis, or an Allergic Reaction – Contact dermatitis is the official name of the rash you get from coming in contact with poison ivy or a chemical of some sort. It usually occurs after being exposed to an irritant of some kind. The rash produced is red and may be very itchy, have bumps and/or blisters.
• Intertrigo, or a Friction Rash – Intertrigo is caused by friction when skin comes into contact with skin. It usually occurs in warm, moist areas of the body. It’s commonly seen underneath breasts, between folds of skin or as chafing between the thighs. It can be red and painful and sometimes bleeding occurs.
• Psoriasis – This skin condition occurs when there is a rapid increase in the life of skin cells. Because of the increase, a scaly, rough buildup of skin develops. It can be painful, thick, dry, and itchy. Usually, it only flares up occasionally and goes away in the matter of a few days or weeks.
• Rosacea –This chronic skin condition presents itself on the face. Sufferers in general experience a breakout when there is an increase of blood flow to the skin. It can be triggered by skin care products, stress, certain foods or sun exposure. It usually appears as a lot of tiny bumps.
• Other Types of Skin Rashes – There are many other kinds of skin rashes including heat rashes, hives, stress rash, sun rash or chicken pox.

No matter what the type of rash, its symptoms or the cause, finding the best essential oil for an itchy rash is important for finding some relief. Unlike most over-the-counter skin products, essential oils are extracted from plants. It’s important what is used to treat the skin since it is the largest organ in the body. When we place lotions and creams and other skin care products on the skin, they are absorbed directly into the body. Essential oils are a way to treat skin conditions naturally without harming it.

Finding the Best Essential Oil for an Itchy Rash

Before using an essential oil for an itchy rash, you will need to dilute it with a suitable carrier oil. Since EOs are very concentrated and potent so, it’s important that they are diluted, or they can cause skin irritation. Diluting them doesn’t hinder their effectiveness at all, it just provides more protection for your skin. Mineral oil, petroleum jelly, butter or shortening are not recommended for diluting essential oils. Here are some of the recommended carrier oils:

• Coconut oil
• Almond oil
• Avocado oil
• Olive oil
• Jojoba oil
• Grapeseed oil

Here are a few of the top essential oils to use for an itchy rash:

Tea Tree Oilhas antiseptic, anti-fungal, antiviral and anti-bacterial properties. It’s an effective choice for skin conditions such as psoriasis, insect bites, eczema, skin sores, and sunburns. It’s also good for combatting fungal infections like jock itch and candida as well as skin conditions that are caused by staph infections. Mix one teaspoon of your preferred carrier oil and five drops of tea tree oil to apply to the affected skin.

Lavender EOis a natural antihistamine and can quickly calm and soothe irritated skin. It’s good for using on skin conditions because of its anti-inflammatory properties. It’s even better known for its antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. It’s been used for treating a variety of ailments for thousands of years. The ancient Europeans used it as part of their bathing routines because of their belief that it purified the skin. To use lavender oil for itchy rashes, add a few drops to your bathwater or dilute it with a carrier oil before applying it to your skin.

Myrrh Essential Oilwas used by ancient Greeks and Egyptians to treat a variety of conditions including those that affect the skin. Its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antifungal and antiviral properties it is a valuable addition to many different types of skin care treatments. It’s effective for treating wounds, dry skin and fungal infections. It is one of the few oils that can be applied directly without dilution, but myrrh oil can also be diluted with a carrier oil prior to application.

Sandalwood EOis fragrant and is often added to both body care products and perfumes. It has a number of therapeutic properties including antiseptic, astringent and anti-inflammatory. It is also an emollient. It’s a wonderful choice for irritated skin because it can help protect from infection and soothe inflammation often caused by psoriasis and eczema. Combine sandalwood oil with a carrier oil like coconut oil to help soothe inflamed skin. Then you can just apply it like you would a lotion.

These are just a few of the best essential oils for an itchy rash. You can choose an oil with properties that can counter the skin irritation, inflammation, or redness. As with any medical condition, always check with your primary care medical provider before deviating from their prescribed treatment methods. Discuss the use of essential oils for an itchy rash if you are on any medication regimen.