What should you know about boob heat rash?

Heat rash, also called prickly heat or sweat rash, commonly appears in warm, moist folds such as beneath the breasts. Small red bumps, prickling, itching, stinging or a flushed patch can occur when sweat ducts become blocked. Tight clothing, a damp bra, exercise, hot weather and skin rubbing can keep the area irritated. The rash may affect either breast or both, and broken skin can become more vulnerable to infection.

Gently wash the area and pat it fully dry rather than rubbing. Choose a breathable, well-fitting bra and change out of sweaty clothing promptly. A cool, clean compress can calm prickling; avoid heavy oils, fragranced products and scratching while the skin settles. A pharmacist or dermatologist can advise whether an emollient or a short course of a suitable topical corticosteroid is appropriate for your skin.

Arrange medical assessment if the rash is spreading, painful, hot, swollen, weeping, crusted or associated with fever. Seek prompt advice for a new one-sided breast change, a lump, nipple discharge, or skin changes that do not improve after removing heat and friction. A clinician can distinguish heat rash from contact dermatitis, fungal infection or another cause of skin redness.

Ask what is causing the rash, whether you should use an emollient or medicine, how to protect the fold during exercise, and which changes would require review.