Horse Skin Care

Horse skin care

Did you know that a horse's skin is four times more sensitive than that of a humans? With an outdoor lifestyle your horse's skin can be susceptible to various skin conditions throughout the year. From the wet winter months with risk of mud fever to the hot summer season with irritation from insect bites. So a good skin care routine is a vital part of horse ownership.

The horse's skin is the largest organ and serves as a protective barrier against external elements, such as weather. Healthy skin is a reflection of their overall coat & skin condition and is indicative of a healthy horse. A good skin care routine is vital for maintaining a horse's health, preventing skin issues, and building a strong bond between you and your horse. Regular grooming and attention to the horse's skin contribute to its overall comfort and happiness. Skin & Coat maintenance is not only about grooming, what supplements and feed you provide for your horse is essential ensuring a balanced diet of vitamins, minerals and oils.

Which horse skin care product do I need? 

Choosing the right horse skin care product depends on the specific needs and conditions of your horse's skin. Different horses may have varying skin issues, and it's essential to select products that address those concerns. 

Here are some common horse skin problems and products that may help:

Mud fever is a common skin condition in horses, particularly during wet and muddy conditions. Mud fever is caused by a combination of factors, including prolonged exposure to wet and muddy conditions. Experts suggest keeping affected areas clean is vital and everything used to treat should support the natural healing process. If the condition is severe or not improving with home care, consult your vet for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Sweet itch is a skin condition in horses caused by an allergic reaction to the bites of Culicoides midges. Sweet itch is the most common allergic skin disease in the UK and affects around 5% of the horse population. These tiny insects are most active during the warmer months, which is why sweet itch tends to be a seasonal problem. Horses that go on to develop Sweet Itch usually show signs of the disease between the ages of one and five and it is common for the symptoms to appear first in the autumn 

Symptoms of Sweet Itch:

Horses affected by sweet itch experience severe itching, primarily along the mane, tail base, withers, and sometimes the face. Due to the horse's constant scratching or rubbing against objects, there may be hair loss in affected areas. The skin may become red, swollen, and inflamed due to the horse's allergic response to the midge bites. In severe cases, the continuous scratching may lead to open sores, scabs, and secondary bacterial infections.

Rain scald often occurs in humid and wet conditions, particularly during prolonged periods of rain or when horses are exposed to damp environments. Milder forms can occur on single intense soaking, for instance, following a thunderstorm, particularly if they are put away wet under rugs. Rain scald typically affects the back, rump, and neck areas of horses, and it presents as small, matted tufts of hair with scabs and crusts.

Symptoms of Rain Scald:

Clumps of hair become matted and form tufts. The skin is covered with small, raised scabs and crusts. Some horses may experience pain and sensitivity in the affected scabby areas. In severe cases, there may be hair loss, leaving the skin exposed. In severe cases or when the infection is widespread, your veterinarian may prescribe systemic antibiotics to address the bacterial infection.

Preventive Measures:

Implement a good grooming routine and maintain a dry living environment. Use rain sheets like our Masta Turnout Rug Range during wet weather to protect horses from rain. It's important to start treatment promptly to prevent the spread of the infection and minimise discomfort for the horse. If you suspect that your horse has rain scald or any skin condition, consult with your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your horse's specific needs.

Skin care brands

Mud Repellent: Lincoln Muddy Buddy 

Skin Soother: Hilton Herbs Bye Bye Itch Lotion

Hilton Herbs Bye Bye Itch Lotion is the perfect cream for horses and ponies to soothe itchiness and support skin cell regeneration. It has a non greasy texture and can be used throughout the 'itching' season spring and summer. It maintains hair regrowth and soothing sore/irritated skin.

Antiseptic: Mastacare Equestrian Antiseptic Scrub

Mastacare Antiseptic Scrub is suitable as a general skin disinfectant helping to remove surface bacteria from the skin. Can be used on minor cuts, bites, sores and rubbed skin. Contains a combination of mild surfactants, essential oil and chlorhexidine. Cleansing surgical skin wash helps to remove surface bacteria and supports natural healing.

Nutrition: Hilton Herbs Mud Defender

Hilton Herbs Mud Defender Powder is formulated to support and maintain the skin's natural resistance to mud dwelling bacteria. It can be fed to horses, ponies and donkeys. It creates a natural resistance to mud dwelling bacteria and supplies essential fatty acids Omega 3 & 6 required to support the skin's epidermal layers integrity, strength and condition. Allowing your furry friend to have a healthy skin and coat.

Nutrition: Hilton Herbs Bye Bye Itch

Hilton Herbs Bye Bye Itch Powder is for horses, donkeys and ponies. It is designed to be fed in the months prior to and during the 'itching' season of spring and summer. It can still be fed at a reduced rate throughout winter months for additional support. The main functions consist of skin and cellular integrity being rich in essential fatty acids and also to encourage natural resistance to allergens and skin irritation. Bye Bye Itch Powder was trialled in the UK where 93% of the trial participants reported that feeding the powder had significantly helped their horse or pony.