How to Ease Heat Rash Irritation

Heat rash can cause intense itching apart from marring your body as well. Being exposed to sweaty and moist heat for long hours usually results in such rashes all over the body. If you are accustomed to a dry cool climatic condition, you will have to be extra careful indeed.

Causes- The predominant reason for development of heat rash is clogged pores. Pores often get clogged by an excess of sweat and dead skin cell which in turn forms an ideal location for the growth of the bacteria staphylococcal epidermidis. The sweat that is formed henceforth  seeps into the skin causing it to break out in angry red rashes commonly known as heat rashes or prickly heat. While the rashes can appear all over the body, it is frequently noted in areas not exposed normally like in the armpits or the groin. Women with heavy breasts often experience prickly heat formation under the breasts too.

The condition is not serious and can be treated effectively. You will be able to get out of many an embarrassing moments if you take the following steps in order to avoid heat rashes.

Retreating from the Sun- It is a good idea to move away from the sun if you feel the first batch of heat rashes beginning to appear. Sitting in the shade in order to cool off is an ideal way to stop further development of the irritating rashes all over your body. The best way is to stay indoors under the full blast of an air conditioner.

Taking a shower is another way of combating the prickly heat. Adding oatmeal and a few teaspoonfuls of baking soda to the bathwater may help to ease the irritation considerably too. Sipping on cool  fresh fruit juice fortified with vitamins is  recommended if you want to escape from the embarrassing effects of heat rashes. However, drinking copious quantities of ice cold water will serve your purpose equally well if you cannot find fruit juices immediately.

Clothing – It is best to avoid synthetic polymer based clothing in such cases. Stick to loose breathable natural fabrics if you want to be comfortable.

Medicines- Intense itching can be eased by application of  calamine lotion or hydrocortisone cream. These are extremely common over the counter medicines and are often found in a first aid box.