Heat rash is also known as prickly heat or Miliaria. It is an itchy rash appearing on the arms, face, legs, chest, back and thighs. Heat rash is characterized by small, red and raised spots that can cause extreme discomfort and itching. Products such as heat rash cream can effectively resolve a heat rash.
Choosing a heat rash cream
The choice of the heat rash cream to use mainly depends upon the kind of heat rash being treated. Most cases of heat rash occur in the summer months due to excessive sweat formation when the weather is hot and humid. However, heat rashes can also occur in winters due to tight woolen clothing or bundling up in heavy blankets or sheets. In either case, excessive sweat gets trapped under the skin causing irritation and rash formation. Obese people are likely to get heat rash all year round as they are prone to sweating more than people who are slimmer. Babies and young children can get heat rashes from being bundled up too tight mainly on account of their underdeveloped sweat glands.
The choice of heat rash cream depends upon the type of prickly heat as well as the age of the affected individual.
Heat and sweat rashes can also result from a fungal infection. Fungal sweat rashes are caused by Candida fungus, a type of yeast that is naturally present on our skin. In some individuals, especially due to weakened immunity, this fungus grows out of control and leads to a rash in the groin region, under the breasts, on the back of knees etc. Excessively tight clothing made from manmade fibers like Lycra or nylon, sweating after a gym workout or simply warm and humid weather can all upset the balance of Candida on the skin.
Treatment of Candida heat rash is done by hydrocortisone based heat rash cream. This heat rash cream contains hydrocortisone that is an anti-inflammatory substance as well as Clotrimazole which is an anti-fungal agent. Together, these ingredients help fight the following heat rash symptoms:
- Sore and red rash
- Inflamed skin
- Itching skin
- Burning discomfort
- Broken and moist skin
How to use the heat rash cream
It is very important to use the heat rash cream as per the instructions given on the product. Hydrocortisone based heat rash creams must never be used for more than 7 days. In case of heat rashes on babies, one must only use a product that is especially formulated for baby’s gentle skin.
Here are a few steps to follow when using a heat rash cream:
- Avoid heat and humidity as far as possible. Stay in air conditioned areas and avoid wearing tight uncomfortable clothing.
- Bathe with cool water. If needed use a gentle antibacterial soap or antiseptic body wash to reduce the risk of developing miliaria.
- After bathing, pat the skin dry with a soft cloth or towel.
- Apply the heat rash cream all over the affected regions. These mainly include the groin, between and under the breasts, behind knees and elbows. The heat rash cream helps give a cooling sensation and immediate relief from burning, itching and inflammation.
Heat rash is an uncomfortable and distracting sensation which, if left untreated, can spread to other areas of the body. Hence, it is very important to treat the rash with effective heat rash cream that can help soothe the symptoms and prevent recurrence.