Heat rash isnt typically serious but it can be very uncomfortable.
Grace Cary/ Getty Images
1.
Some people may be allergic to sandalwood oil.
Grace Cary/ Getty Images
Aloe Vera
Aloe verais a gel many apply to skin ailments like sunburn.
However, it can also be used for other skin wounds and rashes for similar relief.
Talcum Powder
Talcum powder is made from talc.
Some use it to help keep skin dry and prevent rashes.
However, talcum powder has been linked to some kinds of cancer in humans when it is not asbestos-free.
You may want to limit or avoid using it or choose a powder without talc.
Neem
Neemis a traditional medicinal plant that may help with rashes, including heat rash.
It has the following properties:
Applyneem oildirectly to the skin.
Look for organic oils not sourced from plants exposed to fertilizers and pesticides.
Always use diluted oil and test it on a small skin patch first.
Epsom Salt
Epsom saltsare often used in baths to relieve tension and soothe skin.
Epsom salt baths may also help with heat rash.
Add about 2 cups of Epsom salt to warm water to use in a bath.
Soak for up to 15 minutes.
Cool Baths and Showers
Cooling the skin is a critical step in treating heat rash.
A cool bath or shower can be an excellent first step.
you might bathe for up to 10 minutes, being careful not to get chilled.
Repeat up to three times a day.
Lower the central air temperature or turn on your window air-conditioning unit.
Alternately (or additionally), sitting in front of a fan may provide extra relief.
Stay away from tight, warm, clingy clothes.
Opt instead for light, moisture-wicking clothing.
Loose cotton tops, tunics, dresses, and flowy bottoms are all excellent options.
you’re free to either use ice packs or a cool, wet washcloth.
Ointments
Calamine lotionis a good option for instant itch relief.
you’ve got the option to find it online, in pharmacies, and in drug stores.
Antihistamines
Antihistamineslike Benadryl (diphenhydramine) can help relieve the itch associated with heat rash.
Options for OTC antihistamines include topical creams or tablets.
These are available OTC, and a stronger preparation is available by prescription.
How Long Does a Heat Rash Last?
Most mild cases of heat rash go away in just a day or two.
Whatever you choose, aim to cool and soothe the skin and reduce friction.
When treated early and effectively, heat rash doesn’t last long.
American Academy of Family Physicians.Heat rash.
National Cancer Institute.Colloidal oatmeal.
2020 Oct 1;19(10):s4-s7.
PMID: 33026768
Moy RL, Levenson C.Sandalwood album oil as a botanical therapeutic in dermatology.J Clin Aesthet Dermatol.
2017;10(10):34-39.
2022 Jul;87(1):71-80. doi:10.1111/cod.14126
National Eczema Association.Eczema and bathing.
American Cancer Society.Talcum powder and cancer.
2023;14(5):686-691. doi:10.4103/idoj.idoj_40_23
Seattle Children’s Hospital.Heat rash.
Harvard Health Publishing.Heat rash: how to spot it and what to do.
International Hyperhidrosis Society.Heat rash.
2022;4:83-86. doi:10.25259/JSSTD_77_2021
University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics.Summer rashes.
American Academy of Family Physicians.Topical corticosteroids: choice and system.
