How to get rid of heat rash

Heat rash, also called prickly heat or miliaria, happens when sweat cannot move freely through blocked or irritated sweat ducts. Small red or clear bumps and an itching or prickling feeling may appear in skin folds, under clothing or where skin rubs. Compare your symptoms with [Skin Bumps](/symptoms/skin-bumps/), [Skin Rash](/symptoms/skin-rash/) and [Skin Redness](/symptoms/skin-redness/), since other conditions can look similar.

Move to a cool area, take a lukewarm shower and pat the skin dry. Wear loose, breathable clothing, change out of sweaty clothes and avoid heavy occlusive creams or fragranced products on the affected area. A cool damp cloth may ease discomfort. A pharmacist or clinician may suggest [Emollient Therapy](/treatments/medical-dermatology/emollient-therapy/) for suitable dry or irritated skin. Do not scratch; keep nails short to reduce skin damage. [Topical Corticosteroids](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-corticosteroids/) should be used only with appropriate advice, especially on thin or folded skin.

Seek medical advice if the rash is spreading, lasts after cooling, repeatedly returns or develops pus, increasing warmth, tenderness or fever. Urgent assessment is needed for confusion, fainting, breathing difficulty or signs of severe overheating. Babies, older adults and people with significant illness may need earlier advice.

Ask whether the pattern fits heat rash, whether an infection or eczema could be contributing, and which product is safe for the exact body site. Mention new medicines, work in hot conditions and any recent fever or illness.