Why does scratching or heat make skin lesions redder?

Question

Hi doctor,

I have a dry red small area on my face for years now. I went to my dermatologist and he told me to buy a cream (I do not remember the name). It worked for a while, but after it stopped working. The redness gets redder, when it is hot I sweat on my face or if I scratch it. It does not itch at all nor have any other redness anywhere. I had dandruff but I am using dandruff shampoos for years now and do not have any more. I have another thing to say. I have a small lump on my thumb, it has been there for one year but these days I smashed it a little and it got bigger. When I press on it, it hurts, and it does not look like a wart. What can I do about these issues? I will upload the photos. Please help.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have seen the photos. (attahment removed to protect patient identity). It is not clear.

I want to know about your age, exact morphology site of rash, any disease present or treatment taken, and diagnosis made for either of the lesions? Please send clear photos of both the lesions and all details and any other lesions if present. I will try to help you. It may be allergy or infection or else.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

The lesion of the face may be due to photosensitivity. I suggest using topical sunscreens for two to three times a day after washing the face with a gentle cleanser like Cetaphil. If itching or burning, use mild topical steroids like Eumosone cream or Hydrocortisone cream.

The lesion on the thumb appears to be infected as it has redness. Use topical antibiotics like Mupirocin two times daily. If lesion recur, it is an infective lesion and you may need oral antibiotics. If it persists more than a year it may be some cyst for which you need to consult your doctor for excision and biopsy after the redness comes down.