Heat rash is a skin condition that flares up due to excessive sweating and hot weather conditions. People (usually babies and kids) can develop heat rash when their pores or sweat glands temporarily close or become blocked, trapping the heat and sweat inside. Instead of going out, the sweat will leak into nearby tissues, leading to redness and irritation. Although heat rash usually disappears after the person cools down, it can still be uncomfortable, painful, itchy, and concerning.
A heat rash looks like tiny bumps scattered on red skin. Rashes are more likely to appear or spread on heavily clothed parts of the body, such as the belly, neck, back, armpits, chest, buttocks, and groins. They can start in one place and spread to different body parts due to clogged sweat ducts. Fortunately, heat rash is not contagious, so you don’t have to worry about infecting other people.
Usually, a heat rash stays for about 2-3 days without treatment. But, of course, babies and toddlers typically find it hard to tolerate the pain and discomfort. This article presents some home remedies that are proven effective in soothing the itchiness caused by heat rash.
Use a Cold Compress
Since one of the leading causes of heat rash is hot temperature, cooling the skin can help relieve heat rash. In addition, cold temperatures can help unclog the sweat ducts, allowing sweat to escape. There are several ways to cool down; however, applying a cold compress is one of the easiest and most practical ways to reduce the inflammation, redness, and itchiness caused by heat rash. In case a store-bought cold compress is unavailable, an ice pack, chilled cloth, cold towel, or frozen peas can also do the trick.
Wrap the ice pack around a cloth or towel to protect the skin from frostbite or freezer burn, especially if used for a baby or toddler, to protect the skin from frostbite or freezer burn. Also, avoid leaving the cold compress for too long. The safest rule of thumb is to apply the cold compress for five minutes, let the area rest for another five minutes, and repeat the process until the pain subsides.
Athletes who are exposed to the sun for an extended period of time often develop heat rash. They testify that the easiest way to alleviate their discomfort is by using a cold compress. Especially if taking a cold bath right away is not possible.
