What should you know about nappy heat rash?

Heat rash, also called prickly heat, tends to affect warm, covered or folded skin. The area may feel prickly or itchy and show fine bumps, redness or tiny fluid-filled spots. Tight clothing, hot weather, fever and occlusive creams can make it more noticeable.

A nappy rash is not automatically heat rash. [Skin Bumps](/symptoms/skin-bumps/), [Skin Rash](/symptoms/skin-rash/) and [Skin Redness](/symptoms/skin-redness/) can have many causes, including infection or contact irritation. A clinician should review a pattern that is unusual, persistent or worsening.

Change nappies promptly, rinse gently and pat dry. Use loose, breathable clothing and keep the room comfortably cool. Short periods without a nappy can reduce trapped moisture. Avoid vigorous rubbing, fragranced products, powders that can be inhaled and thick layers that hold heat.

A simple protective moisturiser may help when the skin is dry, and [Emollient Therapy](/treatments/medical-dermatology/emollient-therapy/) explains this approach. Do not use [Topical Corticosteroids](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-corticosteroids/) on a baby unless a clinician has advised the product, strength and duration.

Get medical advice if bumps become painful, pus-filled, blistered, raw or rapidly spreading, or if the rash does not settle after cooling and gentle care. Seek urgent help for fever with a very unwell child, facial swelling, breathing difficulty or signs of dehydration.

Ask whether the rash fits heat rash or another nappy-area condition, which products are suitable for your child's age, and when a prescribed cream should be started or stopped. Mention fever, recent illness and all products used.