Heat rash on an infant's face: what parents should know

A baby's face can become warm and sweaty under hats, blankets or during feeding. Blocked sweat ducts may then cause tiny bumps, prickling or mild redness. Compare the appearance with [Heat Rash](/conditions/heat-rash/), while remembering that [Skin Bumps](/symptoms/skin-bumps/) and [Skin Redness](/symptoms/skin-redness/) have many possible causes. Do not assume every facial rash is heat-related.

Remove extra layers and keep the room comfortably cool. Dab sweat away with a soft, clean cloth and let the face air-dry; avoid rubbing. Dress the baby in light, breathable layers and keep hats off indoors unless a clinician advised one. Avoid fragranced lotions, powders and heavy oils on the rash. If dryness is present, ask a clinician whether a simple product used in [Emollient Therapy](/treatments/medical-dermatology/emollient-therapy/) is appropriate. Do not apply medicated creams, including [Topical Corticosteroids](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-corticosteroids/), without advice.

Contact a clinician promptly if the baby has fever, feeds poorly, is unusually sleepy, breathes with difficulty, or the rash includes blisters, pus, swelling or rapidly increasing redness. Facial swelling, a rash around the eyes, or a baby who seems seriously unwell needs urgent assessment. Arrange review if the rash does not settle or keeps returning.

Ask whether the pattern matches heat rash or another cause, which products are safe for the baby's face, and whether the baby's age or other symptoms change the plan. Share when it began and any new detergent, cream, hat or clothing.