Ocean Swim Rash & Itch: Causes & Effective Treatments

Common Causes of Itchy Rash After Ocean Swimming

1. Sea Lice: Small crustaceans attaching to skin, causing itching, rash, swelling.
2. Jellyfish Stings: Cause itching, rash, pain.
3. Coral Cuts: Cuts/scratches leading to infection and rash.
4. Sunburn: Itching, rash, peeling skin.
5. Bacterial Infection: Contaminated water exposes skin to bacteria causing infection, itching, rash.

Best Treatments by Cause

Sea Lice

Remove with tweezers, wash with soap and water, apply calamine lotion.

Jellyfish Stings

Rinse with vinegar to neutralize toxins, apply cold compress. Seek medical attention for severe pain.

Coral Cuts

Clean with soap and water, apply bandage. Seek medical attention for deep/bleeding cuts.

Sunburn

Cool bath/shower, cold compress, moisturizer, avoid further sun exposure.

Bacterial Infection

Wash with soap and water, apply antibiotic ointment. Seek medical attention if severe.

Prevention: Avoid swimming in contaminated water to reduce risk.