Description of heat rash

The rash often appears where heat, humidity, tight clothing or skin folds keep sweat against the skin. Common sites include the neck, chest, back, groin and areas under clothing. Some forms produce tiny clear fluid-filled spots, while deeper blockage can cause firmer bumps. Heat rash is different from an allergy, but irritated skin can become more uncomfortable with rubbing.

Move to a cool environment, loosen clothing and let the skin dry. Wear breathable fabrics, take cool showers, pat rather than rub, and avoid thick ointments or fragranced products over the affected area unless advised. Keep folds dry and change out of sweaty clothing. A pharmacist or clinician can advise whether an emollient or short course of another treatment is appropriate.

Get medical advice if the rash is spreading, intensely painful, draining fluid, associated with fever, or not improving after cooling and gentle skin care. Urgent care is needed for confusion, fainting, severe weakness or trouble breathing during overheating, because those symptoms may indicate a heat-related emergency rather than simple heat rash.

Does this pattern fit heat rash or another cause of skin bumps? Which products should I avoid on the area? How can I protect skin folds in hot weather? Would an emollient or topical corticosteroid be suitable for my symptoms?