Home Remedies for Heat Rash

Most heat rash clears at home within a few days once sweating is reduced. The goal is to cool the skin and keep it dry.

What helps

• Move to a cool place: air-conditioned or well-ventilated rooms, or a fan.
• Wear loose, light cotton clothing, and change out of sweaty clothes quickly.
• Cool the skin: a cool shower or bath, or a clean damp cloth on the area for a few minutes. Pat dry gently without rubbing.
• Let the skin air-dry and keep skin folds dry.
• Avoid scratching. Keep nails short.
• Drink enough water in hot weather.
• Avoid heavy exercise and direct sun until the rash settles.
• Use light bedding and keep the bedroom cool.

What to avoid

• Thick creams, petroleum jelly and oils on the rash, which can trap sweat
• Harsh soaps and scrubbing
• Tight synthetic clothing
• Hot baths and heating pads

Products

Calamine lotion may soothe itching. Hydrocortisone cream is sometimes advised for a short period for itchy skin, but should be used as directed by a doctor or pharmacist, particularly on children and on the face or skin folds.

For babies

Dress your baby in light cotton, avoid overwrapping, keep skin folds dry and keep the room cool. Do not use talcum powder, home oils or herbal pastes on infants. See a paediatrician if the rash does not clear in a few days or the baby has a fever.

When to see a doctor

Pus, spreading redness, fever, severe itching or a rash lasting over a week. Call 112 or 102 for confusion, fainting or a very high temperature.

Key point

Keep cool, keep dry and let the skin breathe.

Before your appointment

Note when the rash began, where it is and what makes it better or worse, such as heat, clothes, creams or sweating. List any products, medicines, oils or herbal pastes you have used, and whether anyone at home has a similar rash. For a baby, note fever, feeding, and what the baby wears and sleeps in. Take photos of the rash over a few days.