Heat Rashes or Heat Burns: Sunburn, stretch marks and sweaty skin are all things that people tend to experience during the summer months. While caring for your skin from the sun can help you prevent the negative effects of warm weather, some things like heat rash can have their implications.
Whether you’ve personally experienced heat rash or know someone who does, it can be a common problem during the summer that seems to pop up out of nowhere. Heat rash is characterized by fever or blistering of the skin and worsens with sweating. You usually feel a hot rash on your neck, head, chest, legs and elbows.
But what is heat rash, and why does it itch? What makes this happen? We spoke to dermatologists to help answer these burning questions (pun intended) and better understand heat rash so you know what to do when it appears.
What Causes a Heat Rash?
Numerous things can cause heat rash; All are associated with high temperatures and ultraviolet radiation during the summer months. “Heat rash on sun-exposed areas such as the chest or arms can occur when a person is sensitive to the sun, and this reaction can sometimes be associated with immune disorders,” dermatologist Ksenia Kobets told the PS committee.
This happens because sweat is trapped in the sweat ducts and cannot reach the surface of the skin and drain away. “This stress can cause inflammation and red bumps or blisters,” says board-certified dermatologist Marisa Garshick. “This condition is often the result of hot weather and humidity, excessive sweating, or excessive heat.”
Heat rash can also occur if someone has a sensitivity or allergy to SPF chemical ingredients such as avobenzone, oxybenzone, or fragrances. This can “cause a hot, sweaty skin reaction as it penetrates the pores,” says Dr. Kobets. “In other cases, heat rash on the legs that is very red, like cayenne pepper, can be associated with heat and sun. It is called dermatosis pigmentum purpurea, which is usually a benign rash that may go away on its own.” Friton may also play a role.
Heat rashes on the neck typically occur because “the neck is especially vulnerable due to sun exposure and tight clothing or accessories that can control the heat,” says Dr. Garshik.
These parts of your body also have a stagnant blood supply and “can cause a buildup of immune cells,” causing a heat rash reaction, says Dr. – Kobets.
Heat Rash Symptoms
Miliaria typically appears as clusters of red bumps or blisters. But does heat rash cause itching? Unfortunately yes. According to our dermatologists, heat rashes can potentially be itchy, and sensitivity can range from mild to severe. “Discomfort from itching can lead to scratching, which can worsen the condition,” says Dr Garshik. However, you may not experience any itching.
“This usually occurs in areas where sweat is trapped under the skin, such as the back, neck, chest, groin and armpits,” says Dr. – Kobets said. “Other symptoms may include mild swelling, itching, and may also be associated with pain.”
Do Heat Rashes Spread?
When you think of acne, you may imagine it spreading to other areas of your body. Fortunately, heat rashes usually do not spread from one part of the body to another because they are not contagious. However, Dr. Garshick says, “They can cover large areas if the conditions that caused the rash persist, such as excessive sweating or exposure to heat.”
How to Get Rid of Heat Rashes
To get rid of heat rash, you need to stay cool and dry and wear light, loose clothing. This allows your skin to breathe. “Apply conditioner to reduce itching and swelling. Avoid thick creams and ointments, which can clog pores and make the condition worse. Using hydrocortisone cream can soothe the irritation, says Dr. Kobets. “Make sure you stay hydrated and stay in a cool environment to prevent excessive sweating. If heat rashes persist or become infected, see your doctor for further treatment.”
How Long Do Heat Rashes Last?
When it comes to how long heat rash will last, there’s really no head and no rush. “It depends on how quickly the skin cools and dries,” says Dr. – said Garshik. “Most heat rashes go away within a few days to a week. This may take longer if the skin continues to be exposed to heat and sweat.”
