Beat the Discomfort of Summer Heat Rash

The combination of summer heat and excessive perspiration can produce an uncomfortable, burning, itching condition known as heat rash. Although heat rash can occur at any time it is more likely to occur in hot weather. Heat rash tends to develop in certain areas such as the neck or in folds of skin such as the underarms or the diaper areas in infants though it may develop in other areas as well.

Heat rash appears in the form of tiny red pimples and produces both an itching and burning sensation. Although the rash does itch, scratching can be painful and may cause further irritation of the affected skin. Heat rash is normally a mild condition and usually clears up on its own but in rare cases infection could occur.

Some people naturally perspire more heavily than others and this may make them more prone to heat rash. Although there isn’t much that can be done to control perspiration especially in hot, humid weather, there are ways to cool down. Heat rash may only last a few hours or a few days and tends to clear up more rapidly once the affected individual is in a cool environment.

If you develop heat rash the best thing to do is to try and stay cool and dry. Try to eliminate perspiration as much as possible by staying indoors or keeping the environment as cool as can be. Try to stay out of the heat if you can or at least limit your exposure to brief periods of time.

Go indoors where there is air conditioning. Take cool showers and dry your skin thoroughly. You might want to dust off with a powder that contains cornstarch. Wear light, loose-fitting clothing. Tight clothing can cause you to perspire more, rub against affected areas and aggravate the condition. Wear light colored clothing as well since darker colored clothing tends to hold in heat. One of the problem areas where heat rash tends to develop is the neck so if you have long, thick hair you may want to wear it up to keep it off of your neck.

Summer is a time for fun and play but it can also be a time of discomfort when you can’t beat the heat so take every precaution you can to have a healthy, happy summer. By playing it cool, you can beat the summer heat and the discomfort of heat rash.