From the Guidelines
For a facial rash with burning sensation, the most effective treatment approach is to apply a Class V/VI topical corticosteroid, such as hydrocortisone 2.5%, to the affected area, along with oral antihistamines like cetirizine or loratidine 10 mg daily, as recommended by the Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer (SITC) toxicity management working group 1. When managing a facial rash with burning sensation, it's essential to consider the grade of the rash and its impact on the patient's quality of life. According to the SITC toxicity management working group 1, mild or localized rashes can be managed with topical interventions, including emollients and Class V/VI topical corticosteroids.
- Key considerations for treatment include:
- Avoiding harsh soaps and fragranced products that can exacerbate the rash
- Applying topical corticosteroids thinly and for a limited duration to minimize side effects
- Using oral antihistamines to relieve itching and reduce the risk of further irritation
- Seeking medical attention if the rash is severe, blistering, or accompanied by fever, as these may require prescription treatments or specialist referral, as indicated by the SITC guidelines 1. The goal of treatment is to restore the skin barrier, reduce inflammation, and alleviate symptoms, thereby improving the patient's quality of life and reducing morbidity and mortality associated with the rash.
From the FDA Drug Label
Directions for itching of skin irritation, inflammation, and rashes: adults and children 2 years of age and older: apply to affected area not more than 3 to 4 times daily children under 2 years of age: ask a doctor for external anal and genital itching, adults: when practical, clean the affected area with mild soap and warm water and rinse thoroughly gently dry by patting or blotting with toilet tissue or a soft cloth before applying apply to affected area not more than 3 to 4 times daily children under 12 years of age: ask a doctor
The treatment for a facial rash with burning using hydrocortisone (TOP) involves applying the medication to the affected area not more than 3 to 4 times daily for adults and children 2 years of age and older 2.
- For children under 2 years of age, it is recommended to ask a doctor.
- It is also advised to clean the affected area with mild soap and warm water and gently dry before applying the medication.
- For children under 12 years of age, it is recommended to ask a doctor.
From the Research
Facial Rash with Burning Treatment
- The treatment of facial rash with burning sensation can be approached by first identifying the underlying cause of the rash.
- According to 3, acne vulgaris is a common condition that can cause facial rash and burning sensation, and it can be treated with topical therapies such as retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, and azelaic acid.
- However, if the rash is caused by an allergic reaction to a topical medication, treatment with oral antibiotics or hormonal therapies may be necessary 3.
- Bacitracin, a common ingredient in over-the-counter topical antibiotics, has been reported to cause allergic contact dermatitis, which can manifest as a burning rash 4, 5, 6.
- In cases of severe or unresponsive seborrheic dermatitis, oral therapies such as itraconazole, terbinafine, and fluconazole may be prescribed 7.
Common Causes of Facial Rash with Burning Sensation
- Acne vulgaris 3
- Allergic contact dermatitis caused by topical medications such as bacitracin 4, 5, 6
- Seborrheic dermatitis 7