How to Treat Heat Rash

Prevention of heat rash is the best treatment for heat rash. Avoid hot environments and take refuge in cooler environments. Air conditioners, oscillating fans, and limiting physical activity in a hot environment can help prevent heat rash.

Home remedies for treating heat rash include washing the affected area with a mild soap and rinsing the area, then gently drying the area. Wear clothing that allows the skin to breathe in a hot environment. Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration in hot environments. Medical care may be necessary if the heat rash does not resolve with home remedies.

10 Heat Rash Home Remedies

Most heat rash resolves without treatment, often within a day after changing to a cooler environment. The best way to prevent heat rash is to avoid sweating by staying in cooler areas, using fans, and limiting physical activity.

The following self-care steps and remedies may help with heat rash.

First aid: The first step in treating heat rash is to wash the affected area with a gentle soap (for example, Dove non-soap cleanser or something similar). Next, rinse the area with water and gently pat dry with a towel. It is recommended to wash several times a day, especially after exercise, prolonged walking, or heat exposure.

Remain in a cool environment and allow for adequate ventilation of the skin.

Take cool showers or baths

Rest in an air-conditioned room at 70 F to 72 F (21 C to 22 C) is therapeutic. If no air conditioning is available at home, safe retreats include indoor shopping malls, grocery stores, movie theaters, hotel lobbies, ice-skating rinks, bowling alleys, etc.

Avoid skin-to-skin contact by placing a clean cotton washcloth or material between skin folds like under the breasts or abdomen.

Apply cool packs over the affected areas (do not leave packs on longer than 20 minutes per hour).

Mild cortisone creams like hydrocortisone (Cortaid) or prescription cortisone creams like triamcinolone (Triesence, Trivaris Intravitreal) may be helpful for resistant rashes or resulting eczema. If it is necessary, apply these creams twice daily. For large areas, you should contact your health care professional.

Oral antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl), can help decrease itching, mostly through the sedation associated with these medications.

Clothing and Heat Rash

Getting naked may keep the body cooler but it does not avoid the problem of sweat buildup especially under the breasts, abdomen fold, between buttock folds, and places where skin overhangs. It may be best to wear light, cotton, absorbent fabrics that separate out skin fold areas. Individuals who do not wear underwear usually notice more retained sweat and therefore more irritation in areas between the buttocks and groin. Short sleeves tops and shorts are often helpful.

Drinking Water

Drink plenty of water for overall hydration.

Water can help maintain cooler body temperatures.

Dehydration may lead to weakness and generalized malaise.