What should you know about heat rash pustules?

A pustule is a raised spot containing cloudy or purulent material. Heat rash can sometimes become irritated, but classic sweat-related spots are often tiny, prickly, red, or clear rather than filled with pus. Pustules may instead involve inflamed hair follicles, blocked pores, or a bacterial infection. Their location, tenderness, crust, and surrounding redness help a clinician judge the cause.

Do not diagnose from colour alone. Information about [Skin Bumps](/symptoms/skin-bumps/) and [Skin Redness](/symptoms/skin-redness/) can help you record symptoms before an examination.

Keep the skin cool, wash gently, and dry by patting. Wear loose clothing, change after sweating, and avoid shaving or rubbing the area. Do not pop pustules or apply thick occlusive products. Use a clean dressing if drainage is rubbing against clothing, and wash hands after touching the area.

A clinician may recommend a particular topical treatment after examining the spots. Do not use a topical corticosteroid on a suspected infection unless directed; [Topical Corticosteroids](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-corticosteroids/) explains why treatment choice matters.

Arrange prompt assessment when pustules multiply, persist, become painful, or sit in a widening red or warm area. Fever, chills, red streaks, marked swelling, or feeling unwell require urgent care. Seek immediate help for breathing difficulty, facial swelling, or a rapidly worsening reaction.

Ask whether the spots are pustules, follicle inflammation, infection, or heat rash; whether you should cover them; and which cleanser or treatment is safe for the affected body area.