What should you know about recurring heat rash?

Heat rash, also called prickly heat, develops when sweat cannot move freely to the skin surface. It may appear as small bumps, redness, stinging, or itch in covered or sweaty areas such as the neck, chest, back, groin, or skin folds. Recurrence suggests that heat, humidity, tight clothing, exercise, or trapped moisture is repeatedly irritating the area. A skin rash with marked tenderness, drainage, or a different pattern may have another cause.

Move to a cooler setting, rinse sweat away with lukewarm water, and pat the skin dry. Choose loose, breathable clothing and take breaks from activities that cause heavy sweating. Keep folds dry without rubbing, and avoid thick oils or greasy products over the affected area. An emollient may help when surrounding skin is dry, while a clinician may recommend a short course of topical corticosteroids for significant inflammation. Do not use steroid products on a child or delicate area without suitable advice.

Arrange an assessment if the rash does not settle after cooling and gentle care, keeps returning despite trigger changes, or becomes painful, warm, swollen, crusted, or filled with pus. Seek prompt help if fever, marked illness, or rapidly spreading redness accompanies the rash. These signs can suggest infection or a different skin condition.

Ask whether the bumps fit heat rash, which products are safe for the body area, and how to prevent recurrence during hot weather or exercise. Mention new cosmetics, medicines, friction, and any drainage or fever.