Heat rash: Symptoms and treatment
“They can be red and itchy and sometimes they can appear in the same area,” Dr. Katta adds. “One difference is that eczema tends to look more patchy and scaly.” Itchy areas tend to be flatter and indistinct at the edges, while heat rashes tend to look and feel like obvious bumps.
Another condition that is often confused with heat rash is polymorphic light rash, which is an itchy or burning condition of small, inflamed pimples or slightly raised patches of skin. “It’s a very unique condition that people notice when they go on vacation in the sun,” for the first time in a while. It can happen at any time, but usually happens when people travel in the spring or early summer and are exposed to more sun than their body, especially after the months. winter, Dr. Lamb explains. This can cause them to “have a red rash, usually only on sun-exposed skin.”
However, what’s unique about polymorphic light eruption is that “unlike heat rash, it’s not really caused by temperature or humidity – it’s actually caused by sunlight.”
How do you treat and prevent it?
Experts say anyone can get heat rash. If you develop it, or even if you have heat eczema, the first thing you should do is move to a cooler place, says Dr. Lamb. Get out of the heat and into the shade, and avoid hot hours and peak humidity.
Nadine Kaskas, a board-certified dermatologist at Mount Sinai, wrote in an email: “Take off tight clothing and wash off any thick lotions, like sunscreen or moisturizers. , which can make it impossible for your skin to breathe. “Take a cool shower or apply a cool compress with a clean towel.” She adds that you can buy an over-the-counter ointment like calamine lotion to help soothe any itching – although if it becomes particularly bothersome you should consult your doctor. , as you may need a prescription for topical steroids.
When left untreated, heat rash usually goes away on its own after you leave a hot and humid environment, says Dr. Although there is little chance of infection if the blisters burst and you don’t keep the skin clean.