There are many reasons people choose to go on the keto diet. Whether it’s weight loss, reducing inflammation, or improving overall brain health, research shows that keto can help many individuals. However, certain side effects can come with a change in your diet. One unusual sign that can appear is a skin rash called keto rash.
Keto rash is an inflammatory, uncomfortable skin condition that can appear in people who have just started following the keto diet. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, it’s also called “prurigo pigmentosa” and occurs mostly in young adult women (*).
This rash triggers red, raised papules across the upper shoulders, back, and abdomen. There are similar characteristics between keto rash and other skin conditions (such as eczema), but the keto rash is distinctive in its network-like pattern of spots.
The keto diet rash is rare, and researchers have not yet fully understood its causes. It is, however, associated with being in a state of ketosis, wherein the body burns fat for energy instead of using carbohydrates.
Uncontrolled diabetes and anorexia nervosa may also be associated with the keto rash — although keep in mind that the keto diet in and of itself does not cause diabetes and anorexia nervosa, and may even help address them.
Furthermore, keto rashes may be triggered by certain factors, such as friction from one’s clothing and sunlight, among others (*). Some people are also more likely to develop the rash than others, particularly people of Asian descent (*).
There are several distinct symptoms that characterize keto rashes. These include the following:
Keto rash appears as red and raised papules that affect the neck, upper chest, and back areas. Here are some keto rash pictures:
The exact cause of the keto rash is unknown, although a link has been found between ketosis and the condition (*). However, several potential triggers can lead to the rash in individuals following the keto diet:
Keto rash can be uncomfortable and frustrating to have. Fortunately, there are several ways to treat the condition:
Developing keto rash is uncommon, but you can prevent it by starting the keto diet with some precautions:
Here are some commonly asked questions about the keto rash:
Keto rash can last up to two weeks. If you have developed red, itchy papules on your neck, chest, and back that have persisted for a few days to a week or more, then it’s time to seek treatment.
Only some people get the keto rash, as it is pretty rare. Still, taking precautionary measures when starting the keto diet is the best approach for preventing keto rashes from occurring.
No, a keto rash is not contagious, nor is it dangerous. The best way to treat it (besides waiting for symptoms to subside) is to ensure you get enough vitamins and minerals while avoiding common food allergies. If these methods don’t help, then upping your carb intake temporarily or talking to your physician about anti-inflammatory medications can help.
If the above tips on treatment and prevention don’t clear your keto rash, then it may be time to talk to your physician. Some medications, such as antibiotics, may be effective at treating keto rash symptoms. However, do note that antibiotics should be the last resort as they come with side effects. This is also important to prevent antibiotic resistance.
The keto rash typically appears on various areas of the upper torso. You may notice red, itchy bumps on your neck, upper back, chest, and abdomen.
The keto rash may sound alarming, but remember that it is rare. As with any new diet, it helps to take precautions and ease into keto slowly. Taking preventive measures can prepare your body to handle ketosis with minimal side effects.
Even if the rash does appear, following the above mentioned tips can help with relieving the condition until it completely disappears. The risk of developing a keto rash is low, so don’t let it discourage you from trying the keto diet, especially if it can help you lose excess weight and improve your metabolic health markers.
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