What does heat rash look like?

Heat rash, also called prickly heat or miliaria, develops when sweat ducts become blocked and sweat irritates nearby skin. The area may feel prickly, itchy, or mildly burning. It commonly appears under clothing, in skin folds, on the neck, chest, back, or hairline. The bumps can sit close together and may look like a fine rash rather than one solid lump. Appearance alone cannot confirm the cause, because other rashes can also produce redness or bumps.

Move to a cooler, well-ventilated place and let the skin dry. Wear loose, breathable clothing, wash gently, and avoid heavy creams, oily products, and vigorous scrubbing while the area is irritated. A cool damp cloth can ease prickling. If the skin is dry after the rash settles, an appropriate emollient may help support the skin barrier; see Emollient Therapy for general treatment information.

Seek medical advice if the rash is spreading, very painful, warm, draining fluid, associated with fever, or not improving after cooling and gentle care. Prompt assessment is also sensible when blisters are extensive, the skin is raw, or the diagnosis is uncertain. A clinician can distinguish heat rash from infection, eczema, allergy, or another cause and decide whether treatment such as Topical Corticosteroids is appropriate.

Could this be heat rash or another cause of Skin Rash? Which products should I stop using? What signs would suggest infection? How should I care for the area if it recurs in hot weather?