When the heat waves start and you’re on top of lathering up the sunscreen, your skin has the best chance of avoiding the regrettable sunburn. But a classic sunburn isn’t the only summer bummer that can happen to your skin under the sun. Heat rash is another skin irritation that can be uncomfortable, cause worry and should be treated properly.
Before you find yourself searching for images of “heat rash” on Google, let’s look at a few key things to know. Like, how does it even happen?
Learn what to spot
Heat rashes worship the sun and the body moisture it causes. A perfect recipe for a rash is when perspiration gets trapped in pores or sweat ducts under the skin. When this happens, a rash may form.
Hot and humid weather are typical conditions for heat rashes to develop, but they can also be seen during cooler weather as well. If someone is overdressing or simply in a warm environment, a heat rash could show up when you least expect it.
How to tell if it's heat rash
Heat rash generally shows the same symptoms as other rashes, often consisting of a cluster of small blisters or bumps. For this type of rash, the go-to spots where it likes to set up camp are where you find skin touching skin or where clothing causes friction with skin -- the neck, shoulders, elbow creases, armpits and groin are the most common areas. The bumps from a heat rash can be quite itchy or painful, depending on the severity of the rash.
So, basically, heat rashes are not cute and sometimes painful? Yes. Heat rash is the summer’s movie blockbuster villain if we ever saw one.
4 tips for healing and comfort
Have no fear summer warrior. Your summer isn’t over if heat rash shows up trying to wreck your plans and good vibes. Heat rash can usually heal on its own. And with a few simple tips, you can help alleviate the discomfort in the meantime.
1) If you experience a heat rash, try to remain in cool environments – a perfect time to catch a movie
2) Use cool compresses on the affected area
3) Keep the irritated skin dry
4) Wear loose, light, cotton clothing
After a few days, the rash should begin to clear up on its own.
When to see a doctor
If you notice the rash isn’t clearing up or is becoming worse, you should seek medical care to have the rash looked over. And, if the affected area has pus or liquids draining from the bumps, visit an urgent care clinic.
While heat rash can be annoying and inconvenient, it usually isn’t serious. By staying cool and dry, you should be able to treat the rash at home and maybe catch a few of those summer blockbuster movies at the same time. Avengers Endgame for the third time? Sure! But always visit an Indigo Health center if you have a rash that isn’t healing or is getting worse. At Indigo Health, you can count on quick, personalized and high-quality care.
