How is heat rash treated?

Heat rash, also called prickly heat, develops when sweat ducts become blocked and sweat irritates the skin. It may appear as small bumps, redness, or an itchy or prickling sensation, especially in skin folds, under clothing, or where skin stays damp. The rash is not contagious. If sweating is unusually heavy or occurs without heat or exercise, ask about [Hyperhidrosis](/conditions/hyperhidrosis/), which can keep the skin moist.

Mild heat rash often improves as the skin cools and dries. Scratching, thick ointments, tight clothing, and fragranced products can trap heat or irritate the area further.

Move to a cool environment, use a fan, and apply a cool damp cloth for short periods. Take lukewarm showers, pat the skin dry, and wear loose, breathable clothing. Keep folds dry and change out of sweaty clothes promptly. Choose a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser and avoid rubbing the rash.

A clinician may suggest an emollient when the surrounding skin is dry, or a short course of a topical corticosteroid when inflammation is troublesome. These products are not interchangeable: use a treatment on the area and for the duration advised, particularly on the face, groin, or in children. Related information is available under [Emollient Therapy](/treatments/medical-dermatology/emollient-therapy/) and [Topical Corticosteroids](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-corticosteroids/).

Seek medical advice if the rash is spreading, very painful, warm, leaking fluid, or accompanied by fever, because infection or another skin problem may need assessment. Arrange a review if cooling and gentle care do not help or if episodes keep returning. [Skin Rash](/symptoms/skin-rash/), [Skin Bumps](/symptoms/skin-bumps/), and [Skin Redness](/symptoms/skin-redness/) describe symptoms that can overlap with heat rash.

Could this be heat rash or another condition? Which product is suitable for this body area? How can I manage sweating, clothing, or skin folds to reduce repeat episodes?