Heat rash with bumps: practical guidance

Bumps may be tiny and closely grouped, with prickling, itch or mild redness. They commonly appear where sweat and friction collect, including the neck, chest, back, underarms, groin or skin folds. Some bumps are clear or pale; others look red and inflamed. A bumpy [Skin Rash](/symptoms/skin-rash/) can have many causes, so note whether the eruption started after exercise, fever, tight clothing, a new product or prolonged heat. Pus, marked tenderness or spreading warmth make infection more concerning.

Stop the heat exposure, rest in a cool place and let the skin breathe. Choose loose, breathable clothing, change damp garments and keep folds dry without rubbing. A cool compress can ease prickling. Use gentle cleansing and avoid scratching, popping, scrubs, perfume and thick products that trap moisture. Once irritation has eased, a light moisturiser may help dryness; [Emollient Therapy](/treatments/medical-dermatology/emollient-therapy/) provides background. If inflammation is troublesome, ask a clinician whether [Topical Corticosteroids](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-corticosteroids/) are suitable for that site.

Arrange care if bumps do not begin settling after cooling, continue to spread, recur often, or interfere with sleep. Seek prompt help for fever, pus, severe pain, rapidly increasing swelling or warmth, extensive blistering, facial swelling, breathing difficulty or confusion. A clinician can distinguish heat rash from folliculitis, contact irritation and other causes of bumpy skin.

Ask whether the pattern is [Heat Rash](/conditions/heat-rash/) and how to prevent it in hot weather. Record the body sites involved, whether the bumps itch or hurt, whether they contain fluid, and which clothing, products, medicines or activities came before the flare.