Q. How can I get rid of my heat rash?
Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.
Heat rash, or prickly heat, is an itchy and uncomfortable skin condition caused by exposure to hot weather. It usually manifests itself as a red rash that appears on areas of the body like the neck and chest where sweat cannot evaporate easily. Thankfully, there are several simple steps you can take to get rid of heat rash fast.
First, it is important to cool down your body temperature. Take a cold shower or apply a cold compress directly onto the affected area to reduce inflammation and itching. Make sure air can move around the area so that sweat can evaporate properly; try not to put clothes on top of any irritation when possible as this could agitate further.
Second, keep skin hydrated – drink plenty of water throughout the day to ensure proper hydration and eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables which will provide nourishment for healthy skin in general. Consider taking an oat bath in warm water with 1-2 handfuls of rolled oats; oatmeal contains anti-inflammatory properties which help reduce itchiness while also rehydrating dry skin from sweating – if you have sensitive skin then use hypoallergenic detergents without fragrances since these could irritate your heat rash further instead!
Thirdly, use over-the-counter relief creams such as calamine lotion or hydrocortisone cream (if working with medical advice) applied sparingly over affected area for more localized relief from inflammation and itching symptoms associated with heat rashes – be sure not to apply creams too often though because this may lead to excessive drying out! Additionally, consider adding Vitamin E oil into your everyday skincare routine - Vitamin E oil helps maintain healthy cell membranes in order prevent future damage due its antioxidant properties helping heal irritated patches quickly while preventing future bouts too!
Finally avoid heavy clothing during hot weather conditions which trap sweat close against our bodies leaving us more prone towards irritation - especially tight fitting apparel like jeans/shorts should be swapped in favour for loose fitting garments made up out breathable materials providing better ventilation levels allowing perspiration flow away freely through fabric whilst blocking unwanted outer air transfers!. Heat Rashes will generally clear up within two weeks but following these steps may help improve comfort levels greatly until they do naturally disappear!