Treatment for heat rashes on the body

Heat rash develops when sweat ducts become blocked or irritated, leaving sweat trapped near the surface. Small bumps, prickling, itch, and redness may appear on the trunk, neck, shoulders, or covered areas. Different depths of irritation can produce different-looking spots, so a widespread rash is not automatically heat rash. Folliculitis, eczema, contact dermatitis, and infection may also follow sweating or friction. A clinician can inspect the pattern, surface, and surrounding skin. Start with [Heat Rash](/conditions/heat-rash/) and related [Skin Rash](/symptoms/skin-rash/) information.

Rest in a cool environment and use a cool, clean compress for comfort. Wash gently, pat dry, and keep folds and covered areas dry. Wear loose, breathable clothing and avoid backpacks, straps, or exercise that repeatedly rub the rash until it settles. Do not scratch, scrub, pop bumps, or apply thick oily products. If dryness remains after the heat settles, ask about [Emollient Therapy](/treatments/medical-dermatology/emollient-therapy/). A clinician may consider [Topical Corticosteroids](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-corticosteroids/) for selected inflammatory rashes, but the wrong product can aggravate infection or sensitive skin.

Arrange a review if the rash covers a large area, keeps returning, becomes painful, develops pus, crusts, blisters, or feels hot, or fails to settle after removing heat and friction. Seek urgent care for fever, rapidly spreading redness, severe swelling, breathing difficulty, or marked weakness. A clinician may need to check for infection or another inflammatory condition before recommending medicine. [Skin Bumps](/symptoms/skin-bumps/) and [Skin Redness](/symptoms/skin-redness/) can help you describe the changes.

Ask what the pattern suggests, whether you need a prescription or testing, how to apply any medicine to each body area, and which heat or clothing triggers to avoid.