Why covid post-vaccine rashes might actually be a ‘good thing’

We have been seeing other types of post-vaccine skin reactions on different parts of the body, in addition to rashes on the inoculated arm,” says Esther Freeman, director of Global Health Dermatology at MGH, associate professor of dermatology at Harvard Medical School, and lead author of a paper on the topic published last week in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. “These reactions are unusual and generally mild, and typically resolve on their own or with over-the-counter treatment,” such as topical steroid creams and antihistamines.

If they occur after the first dose, they shouldn’t prevent anyone from getting the second, experts say. “Even though skin reactions to a vaccine can look scary, most are not severe or long-lasting, and show us that your body likely is developing a nice strong immune response to the vaccine, which is a good thing,” Freeman says.

These skin conditions can include, among other things, hives, measles-like rashes and a full body rash similar to pityriasis rosea. Some people who have had cosmetic fillers — used to remove wrinkles — also have reported swelling. Freeman says she has seen an increase in the number of post-vaccine shingles cases, as well, although proof of a vaccine connection has not been established. ...