Patient education: Heat rash (prickly heat) (The Basics)

What is a heat rash? — 

This is a skin rash that can happen when a person is hot or sweating a lot. The rash can look like a cluster of tiny bubbles under the skin or like a cluster of small pimples (picture 1).

Anyone can get a heat rash, but it is most common in young children (picture 2). The rash most often appears on the head, neck, chest, or anywhere where the skin rubs together (like the armpit).

Heat rash is sometimes called prickly heat. Doctors and nurses call it "miliaria crystallina" or "miliaria rubra."

What can I do on my own to get rid of a heat rash? — 

The most important thing you can do is try to reduce how much you are sweating. If possible, stay in a cool, dry place. You can take cool baths or use a clean cloth dipped in cold water to cool the areas with the rash. Also, wear loose cotton clothes that let your skin breathe.

Is there a treatment for heat rash? — 

No. The best treatment is to cool down and try to stay dry.

What if my child gets a heat rash? — 

Heat rash is common in children, especially babies. If your child gets a heat rash, you can:

●Put the child in a cooler environment.

●Reduce how much clothing the child is wearing, and loosen their clothes.

●Give the child cool baths.

When should I call the doctor? — 

Heat rash does not usually require a doctor's visit. But see a doctor or nurse if you have:

●A fever

●Signs of a skin infection – If you have an infection, your skin might:

•Hurt, feel warm, or swell

•Look red

•Ooze pus, or form scabs

More on this topic

Patient education: Blisters (The Basics)
Patient education: Sunburn (The Basics)
Patient education: Staying safe in the sun (The Basics)

Patient education: Sunburn (Beyond the Basics)
Patient education: Sunburn prevention (Beyond the Basics)