Prickly heat is also known as heat rash, which happens when sweat is trapped in the deep layers of the skin. Read on to know everything about heat rash and how to get rid of it.
Causes of prickly heat
Prickly heat, also known as heat and sweat rash, often occurs in summer and hot weather—When the body is exposed to heat for a prolonged time, the sweat glands might become overloaded and sweat ducts get clogged. This causes sweat to be trapped in the deep layers of the skin, which makes the skin irritated and thus responds by producing rashes. Prickly heat can happen on face or body.
The skin condition may appear in both babies and adults. Babies are more likely to get heat rash for several reasons, as their bodies are less effective at regulating temperature; and they tend to have more skin folds, which can trap heat and sweat.
It may be uncomfortable and painful with the following symptoms:
- Itching
- Redness
- Small red blisters or bumps
- Hot skin
(Disclaimer: Please consult a dermatologist before using any new product, home remedies, or medication.)
4 Home remedies for prickly heat
In most situations, heat rash isn’t serious. The key point to getting rid of heat rash is to keep the skin cool and dry. You can try the following ways to get rid of the condition.
Take a cold bath or shower
Cooling down your skin is one of the easiest ways to get rid of heat rash. Bathing in cool water can help. You can also add 3 to 5 tablespoons of baking soda to a bath and soak for about 20 minutes- baking soda helps unclog your pores that in turn reduces inflammation, itching, and irritation. Taking a cool bath can keep your skin cool and prevent the heat rash from becoming more serious.
Apart from cool baths, you can take an ice pack or cold compact and place it on the heat rash area. Sit for a few minutes to cool down your skin. of course, you should make sure to dry your skin properly after that, otherwise, your skin will get irritated.
For babies, you can also rinse away oil and sweat with cool water, then gently pat the area dry. Regularly clean skin folds to make sure trapped sweat and oil don’t make the rash worse.
Talcum powder
It is difficult to keep heat rash-affected area completely dry in the hot and humid water, even if you avoid exercise. Therefore, it is good to use talcum powder to dry your skin. Take a small amount of powder and rub it gently on the affected skin. Top up throughout the day to prevent heat rash.
Calamine lotion
Calamine lotion is a natural remedy for prickly heat, it can be applied to the affected area to alleviate uncomfortable itching and prickling sensations. But it could sometimes cause dry skin so it is suggested to use it along with a moisturizer.
Aloe vera
Heat rash will cause itchy inflammation and redness of the skin. Apply aloe vera gel on the related area to relieve the burning sensation, prevent infection and reduce the visible signs of heat rash. It is quite safe and effective that won’t clog the pores and worsen the condition of the skin.
Light, moisture-wicking clothes
Heat rash occurs when sweat pores become blocked from excessive sweating. It is important to avoid clothing that will irritate your skin or make you sweat a lot. It is suggested to keep your skin dry and wear loose clothes to help your skin heal. Some synthetic fabrics designed for fitness and sporting activities may suit your situation.
Prevention
To prevent prickly heat, you have to deal with the causes, i.e. exposure to high heat and clogged sweat ducts. Therefore, useful strategies include:
- Avoid staying in a hot and humid environment
- Stay cool in an air-conditioned room
- Wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing
- Use a gentle exfoliator during a shower
The bottom line is to keep your skin cool, clean, and dry as possible as you can.