Heat rash, also known as prickly heat or miliaria, is a skin condition that causes small, red bumps to appear on the body due to sweating. It usually occurs when the air temperature and humidity are high.
The rash usually appears on your chest and back because these areas are closest to the skin’s surface. It is often itchy or painful, but it’s not harmful. The rash usually goes away within a few days.
Should you be Concerned about Heat Rashes?
Heat rashes are usually not serious. Heat rash can sometimes indicate a more severe condition, such as meningococcal disease or chickenpox. You should see your doctor if the rash becomes painful or lasts longer than two weeks.
When Should you See a Doctor?
See your doctor if you have a rash that lasts longer than two weeks. In addition to heat rashes, your doctor can tell you if the rash is caused by an infection or an immune system disorder. Consult a doctor immediately if you’re concerned about heat rash causing a disease or other serious conditions.
You can schedule an online doctor consultation or visit a skin specialist in Ranchi, Mumbai, Kolkata, or anywhere in India.
Remedies to Getting Rid of Heat Rashes Quickly
Heat rashes can be very itchy and can lead to infections if not treated properly. Heat rashes are caused by prolonged exposure to heat or sunlight, which causes your skin to become irritated. There are many ways to get rid of heat rashes quickly, including:
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is a natural moisturizer that will help keep your skin hydrated and prevent the development of further irritation. To use this remedy, simply apply aloe vera gel to the affected area with a cotton ball until you see clear signs of improvement in your skin condition. If you don’t have any aloe vera plant at home, you can purchase it from any local pharmacy or grocery store.
Ointments
You can also use ointments to soothe your skin and alleviate the symptoms of a heat rash. Rubbing an ointment containing camphor into the affected area will help reduce irritation, redness, and pain. Calamine lotion is a common ointment that you can use to help with heat rashes.
Cold Baths/Showers
A cold bath or shower can help relieve the symptoms of a heat rash. A cool shower will lower body temperature and reduce inflammation, which in turn helps calm itching and irritation.
Moisture Wicking Clothes
Wearing moisture-wicking clothes made of cotton or silk will help keep you dry and prevent heat rashes from forming. Athletic clothing designed for running or working out is a good option because it’s made with materials that wick sweat away from your skin and absorb it into the fabric.
Air Conditioner/Fans/Coolers
Air conditioning, fans, and coolers can help reduce body temperature and lower inflammation. If you have access to an air conditioner or window fan, turn it on and let the cool air blow across your skin. This will help cool off your body and provide some relief from itching.
Ice Packs
If you have an ice pack, place it on your skin. This will help reduce inflammation and itching by providing a soothing sensation. If you don’t have an ice pack, use cold water or frozen vegetables instead.
Baking Soda
Baking soda can help relieve itching and inflammation. If you have access to a bathtub, mix 1 cup of baking soda into your lukewarm water. Soak in the tub for 15 minutes, then rinse with cold water.
Talcum Powder
Talcum powder can also help reduce itching and inflammation. To use it, sprinkle some into the palm of your hand and then gently rub it into your skin. Repeat as needed until the itching subsides.
Neem
Neem is a herb from the neem tree, which is native to India. It can help reduce inflammation and itching by preventing bacteria from sticking to your skin. Mix neem powder into water to use it until it forms a paste. Then apply the paste directly onto your skin and rub gently for about 5 minutes before rinsing off with warm water.
Epsom Salt
Epsom salt is a type of magnesium sulfate that can help reduce inflammation and itching. To use it, dissolve 1 cup of Epsom salt into a bathtub filled with water. Soak in the bath for 20 minutes till your irritation subsides. You can find a skin specialist in any part of the world. Suppose you need to see a skin specialist in Ranchi; you can browse nearby clinics and book an online doctor consultation.
How Long does it take to Recover from Heat Rashes?
It typically takes a few days for heat rashes to go away. But if you’ve been scratching your skin excessively or rubbing it while you have the rash, it can take up to a week. Try the abovementioned remedies and see how they work for you. If your heat rash is severe or lasts longer than two weeks, consult with a skin specialist.
