Miliaria rubra, commonly known as “heat rash” is an itchy and sometime painful set of small red bumps that appear on the skin when you are in the heat too long. You will most commonly find this in highly sweaty areas such as the waist, trunk or groin.

Causes of Heat Rash

Heat rash is caused by the obstruction of sweat glands. Sweat glands can be obstructed simply by clothing that is too tight or does not let air circulate around the body. When the skin is not properly ventilated, sweat that would normally come to the surface of the skin evaporates collects under the skin. A heat rash is the result

Heat Rash is a common ailment in hot and humid conditions, such as in the tropics and during the summer season. Babies and children are also more likely to be affected than adults because of their underdeveloped sweat glands, in which case the rash is commonly found in the nappy area and in the skin folds or on the neck.

Signs and Symptoms of Heat Rash

Heat Rash is a very itchy red skin rash, causing a prickling or burning feeling. Heat Rash also can appear as large, reddened areas of skin.

Treatment of Heat Rash

• Wear loose cotton clothing.
• Calamine lotion may cool and soothe the skin.
• Use of powders and antiperspirants often helps.
• Conditions that increase sweating should be avoided.
• A mild steroid cream may soothe the irritation.
• Antibiotics and topical antiseptics are used to prevent bacterial blooms.
• Keep the skin cool and dry. Keep the sleeping area cool.
• Baking soda is an inexpensive and effective product that you most likely have sitting on a kitchen shelf. Apply baking soda to a heat rash dry, or you can make a paste with baking soda and water and apply it to the rash. It will cool and dry the rash.
• Calamine lotion BP and natural oatmeal-based creams can be soothing.
• Avoid ointments or other lotions because they can irritate the skin.
• Anti-histamine creams or medications will relieve the itch.