Prickly Heat and Rashes: Prevention Tips
Hello sunshine lovers! Summers can be really fun, but those sneaky rashes and itchy bumps might be ruining it for you, isn’t it? You do not need to worry, as we have got you covered in this article. Let us have a look at how to manage those rashes! Read on to know more!
What exactly is prickly heat or heat rash?
Prickly heat/heat rashes are terms used synonymously. It usually occurs when sweat becomes trapped in the skin, leading to the formation of blisters and bumps. These blisters/bumps are often observed during summer and might be itchy as well.
What are the symptoms of prickly heat?
Symptoms of prickly heat are as follows:
- Small, raised bumps.
- Rashes/bumps feel itchy.
- Swelling of the bumps.
- The rashes appear reddish on fair skin, while it is difficult to spot them in dark skin. It can have a greyish or whitish appearance in dark-complexioned people.
Who is at risk of developing prickly heat or rashes?
Let us look at people who have a higher risk of developing heat rashes:
- Newborns and toddlers have a higher risk of developing heat rashes since they have immature sweat glands.
- Living in extremely hot/humid climates increases the risk.
- Individuals who are bedridden for long periods can develop it.
- Outdoor workers, athletes, or people exercising in hot climates have an elevated risk.
What are some tips to reduce the formation of prickly heat/rashes?
Let us look at some tips for reducing the rashes:
- Make sure to wear loose, cotton clothes. Do not wrap newborn babies in too many clothes.
- Limit physical activity, especially outdoors, during extreme periods of heat. Stay under a shade and use a fan if indoors. Do not use heavy makeup, especially in hot weather, as it can clog the pores. Similarly, avoid using heavy moisturizers or creams as well.
- Drink plenty of water to hydrate your skin (at least 2-3 liters of water). You can also drink lemon water, coconut water, fresh juices, or soups to hydrate yourself.
- Have cold showers and baths to cool your body.
- If your skin feels itchy due to rashes, apply ice packs or pat using a wet towel to the affected area. Avoid scratching the affected area.
- Use fragrance-free shower gels/creams.
- Aloe vera can help in cooling skin affected by heat rash. Apply it directly to the affected area to soothe your skin.
- Use unscented talcum powder in sweat-prone areas of your skin.
- Use a sunscreen with SPF of at least 30 to protect against UV rays. Our Sunkissed sunscreen has SPF of 50, which can protect against harmful UV radiation.
What do doctors prescribe for heat rash?
Ointments like calamine lotion, over-the-counter medications like antihistamines, and steroid-based creams might be prescribed for heat rash.
When to see a doctor?
If your rash seems to be infected or does not go away even with the prescribed treatment, it is better to visit the doctor.
Conclusion:
And there you go! With a few smart tricks along with love and care, you can easily manage prickly heat. So stay cool and step confidently out in the sun!
