Things you need to know about Post-COVID Skin Issues

Have you noticed changes in your skin post-COVID phase? Does your skin feel more sensitive or irritated? While we often think of COVID-19 as a disease that primarily affects the lungs, it can also impact our skin. Since the virus first comes into contact with our skin and mucous membranes, our skin can be one of the first areas affected. This can lead to various symptoms, including rashes, blisters, irritation, and dermatitis. Some of the common skin issues are skin rashes, COVID toes, eczema, papular rash, vesicular rash, oral rash, pityriasis rosea, purpuric or vasculitic rashes, urticarial rash, and viral exanthem. Dr. Bala Naga Sindhura Kambhampati Senior Consultant - Dermatology & Clinical Aestheticsa renowned senior dermatologist throws light on the impact of COVID-19 on skin health, its types, causes, and preventive measures in this article.

Types of Skin Problems:
Researchers have found a possible connection between COVID-19 and skin rashes. In a study, 8.8% of people who tested positive for COVID-19 reported skin changes. For some, a rash was the only symptom, and in others, it appeared before any other symptoms like hair loss.
Here are some common types of COVID-19 rashes:
1. COVID Toes: These look like purple or red sores on the toes (and sometimes fingers). The skin may peel or develop scaly patches as it heals. COVID-19 toes are more common in young people and can show up months after infection.
2. COVID Hives (Urticaria): These are itchy, raised bumps that appear suddenly and can come and go within hours. They can affect any part of the body, including the face, and may last long after recovery from COVID-19.
3. Neck Eczema: This rash can appear on the neck and chest during or after a COVID-19 infection. It’s usually itchy and can last for a long-time, even if you’ve never had eczema before.
4. Oral Rash: This causes soreness inside the mouth and on the lips. As it heals, the lips may become dry and scaly.
5. Vesicular and Papular Rash: These rashes show up as fluid-filled bumps (vesicles) or solid, raised bumps (papules). They can appear anywhere on the body, often on the backs of the feet and hands, elbows, and knees. These rashes can last weeks after the infection.

6. Pityriasis Rosea: This rash starts as a large spot on the abdomen, back, or chest, followed by smaller spots on the torso and arms. The rash often forms a Christmas tree pattern and can last several months.
7. Purpuric or Vasculitic Rashes: These rashes look like deep purple or red spots, similar to bruises, caused by bleeding under the skin due to damaged blood vessels.
8. Viral Exanthem: A widespread rash with reddish blotches or bumps that often appears alongside other viral symptoms like a cough and fever.
Hair Loss Issues
Additionally, after recovering from COVID-19, some people experience significant hair loss 2-3 months later. This condition, known as Telogen Effluvium, occurs because the body undergoes extreme stress during and after the illness. Though it can be alarming, it’s a temporary reaction to the stress of the infection. Iron deficiency, hormonal changes, underlying hair disorders, and certain medications can all cause hair loss. After COVID-19, these factors might lead to more noticeable hair thinning, requiring patience or medical advice for recovery.
Causes:
The common post-COVID skin issues symptoms such as blotchy discoloration, tiny red or dark spots, raised bumps, or small blisters like chickenpox. Some research suggests that post-COVID-19 rashes may occur due to a high number of certain receptors (ACE2) in the skin or inflammation caused by the virus in tiny blood vessels. However, more research is needed to fully understand why these rashes happen.
Treatment and Management:
For most people, COVID-19 causes mild symptoms, including any rashes, which usually go away on their own. Rashes like hives or COVID toes are often linked to milder cases. If the rash itches or is uncomfortable, you can use a cold compress, wash with cool water, and avoid scratching. Here are some of the treatment options:
• Use over-the-counter hydrocortisone or calamine lotion for itching or COVID toes.
• Apply cold compresses to reduce swelling.
• Take OTC pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen for discomfort.
• Take oatmeal baths to soothe itchy or irritated skin.
• Use OTC antihistamines to relieve itching from COVID hives.
Since Long COVID can cause many different symptoms, there isn't one specific treatment for it. People with Long COVID should work with a healthcare provider to create a personalized treatment plan that helps manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. If the problem persists, it is always wise to consult a dermatologist.

Dr. Bala Naga Sindhura Kambhampati
Senior Consultant - Dermatology & Clinical Aesthetics Star Hospitals Financial District, Nanakramguda,

Preventive Measures:
• Limit the use of harsh sanitizers and soaps, and if you already have a skin condition, make sure to follow proper treatment and precautions. 
• Proper use of emollients, well-fitting PPE, and careful management of stress can help reduce these skin problems. 
• Managing stress is also important. Try exercising, practicing mindfulness, maintaining healthy relationships, getting 7-8 hours of quality sleep, and talking to your doctor or therapist for more stress management tips.
• You can also help by using mild soap, moisturizing your skin, and supporting hair recovery with a healthy diet and strong immunity.
• To help your hair grow and stay healthy, focus on good nutrition, including protein, iron, vitamin D, vitamin C, zinc, folic acid, and vitamin B12. Check your vitamin D levels with your doctor, as low levels might need supplements.
• Take care of your hair by avoiding tight hairstyles and excessive heat or treatments. Be patient; your hair will grow back, but it may take time.
Expert Opinion
Experts in dermatology have noticed an increase in post-COVID skin issues, with many patients seeking advice on how to manage these conditions. Dr. Bala Naga Sindhura Kambhampati Senior Consultant - Dermatology & Clinical Aesthetics, a popular dermatologist, emphasizes the importance of not ignoring these symptoms.