Got a Disney Rash? Here’s Why It Happens

If you’re exploring Disneyland, Walt Disney World or any other large theme park, you probably don’t want to walk away with a beet-red rash on your lower legs — but it’s more common than you might think.

Rheumatologist Alexandra Villa-Forte, MD, MPH, explains how this skin condition sporadically appears and what you can do to prevent it.

What is a ‘Disney rash’?

The medical term for a Disney rash is exercise-induced vasculitis. It’s sometimes referred to as golfer’s vasculitis or marathon runner’s vasculitis, but it’s popularly called “Disney rash” because of how it affects people when they’re walking long distances or standing for long periods of time in theme parks. It all stems from inflammation in the blood vessels just underneath the surface of your skin.

“Healthy individuals may get this rash because they’re walking for extended periods of time in warm weather,” says Dr. Villa-Forte. “It’s more common on your lower legs, between the ankles and right below the knees. But it can also affect other areas, like your chest and back.”

Symptoms of a Disney rash

Exercise-induced vasculitis appears as a splotchy red or purple rash. It can sometimes even look like a large bruise on your skin. It most commonly causes:

• Swelling
• Welts
• Itching or burning

And it can appear on:

• Your lower legs between your ankles and knees
• Your chest
• Your back

“It’s very uncomfortable, more like a burning itch,” clarifies Dr. Villa-Forte. “Areas that are compressed, like under your socks, are usually spared from this rash.”

Causes of exercise-induced vasculitis

Vasculitis is an autoimmune condition that causes inflammation in your blood vessels. There are several different kinds of vasculitides, but the Disney rash variety is believed to be caused by a combination of:

• Overexertion
• Dehydration
• Heat and humidity
• Gravity from standing for long periods

That’s why it commonly occurs for people who are on vacation and traveling to theme parks like Disney. More research is needed to determine more specific reasons behind the rash. But some studies suggest it happens more often for people with varicose veins or chronic venous insufficiency, a condition where blood pools in your legs.

Treatment for a Disney rash

Exercise-induced vasculitis tends to go away on its own within seven to 10 days. If you’re looking to relieve some of the swelling or itching, Dr. Villa-Forte recommends:

• Resting and limiting outdoor exercise until it goes away
• Elevating your legs or using compression stockings to reduce swelling
• Using aloe vera gel or antihistamines to manage the itch

“Compression socks might feel uncomfortable at first, but it’s probably the best way to try to reduce swelling in your legs,” says Dr. Villa-Forte.

How to prevent it

Don’t let the threat of a Disney rash prevent you from having a good time on your next vacation.

Dr. Villa-Forte advises wearing clothing that fully covers your skin (like pants) or compression socks to prevent swelling if you:

• Are walking for long periods in the heat
• Are standing for long periods of time
• Have a history of exercise-induced vasculitis

“Some primary care providers might recommend a short course of prednisone or antihistamines a few days before you plan to do a lot of walking outside, but it’s not recommended for everyone,” she adds. “If you’re interested in those options, speak to your healthcare provider.”

Remember, in most cases, a Disney rash comes and goes with little fanfare. If you’re going on a long hike or planning to spend a day at an outdoor amusement park, just keep an eye on your symptoms, make sure you rest appropriately and stay hydrated.