Skin allergies often show up as redness, itching, swelling, or a rash after contact with certain substances. Common triggers include soaps, detergents, fragrances, metals like nickel, and plants such as poison ivy. In Ohio, time spent outdoors, especially during seasonal changes, can increase exposure to environmental allergens. While most reactions are mild, some can become more severe or be mistaken for other conditions, making timely evaluation important.

Athlete’s foot is a common, contagious fungal infection that typically affects the skin between the toes, causing itching, redness, burning, and peeling. It thrives in warm, damp environments like public showers, gyms, and locker rooms, which are common in active lifestyles across Ohio. While often mild and treatable with over-the-counter antifungal creams, athlete’s foot can worsen or spread if left untreated.

Cold sores are small, fluid-filled blisters that usually appear around the lips or mouth. They’re caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) and can be triggered by stress, fatigue, illness, or too much sun exposure. While cold sores often clear up on their own within a week or two, they can be painful and easily spread. Prompt treatment can help ease discomfort, speed up healing, and lower the risk of passing the virus to others.

Eczema and dry skin can cause persistent itching, redness, and irritation that interfere with daily comfort. Flare-ups are often triggered by allergens, stress, changes in weather, or exposure to extreme temperatures, especially during Ohio’s cold winters and humid summers. While symptoms may come and go, getting professional care can help soothe discomfort, manage recurring flare-ups, and identify signs of infection that may need treatment.

Impetigo is a highly contagious bacterial skin infection that most commonly affects young children. It often appears as red sores or blisters that develop a distinctive honey-colored crust, typically around the nose and mouth. Ohio’s warm, humid summer weather can contribute to a higher risk of impetigo outbreaks, especially in daycare or school settings. Prompt treatment can help relieve symptoms quickly and prevent the infection from spreading to others.

Poison ivy and poison oak are common causes of allergic skin reactions, triggered by the plants’ oils. In Ohio, these plants are often found in wooded areas, parks, and even backyards, making exposure more likely during outdoor activities like hiking, yard work, or playing outside. Contact can lead to red, itchy, and sometimes blistering rashes. While symptoms are usually mild, medical care can help relieve discomfort, lower the risk of infection, and stop the rash from spreading.

Ringworm is a contagious fungal infection that can affect the skin, scalp, or nails. It often appears as a red, circular rash that may be itchy, scaly, or irritated, and can spread to other parts of the body if not treated. Ringworm is commonly transmitted through close contact or shared surfaces in places like schools, gyms, locker rooms, and playgrounds. Early treatment helps stop the spread and relieves uncomfortable symptoms.

Sunburn happens when the skin is overexposed to ultraviolet (UV) rays, usually from spending too much time in the sun without sunscreen or protective clothing. During Ohio’s sunny summer months, it’s easy to underestimate how quickly sunburn can occur. Mild sunburns often cause redness, tenderness, and peeling, and usually heal on their own. More severe burns, especially those with blistering or widespread discomfort, should be evaluated by a medical provider to prevent complications and promote healing.