Dermatologist explains all about heat rash and how you can ditch the itch

Difficulty: Summiteer (Level 3)

Summer is the season of sun, sand and – for some – red, itchy bumps.

Also called prickly heat or miliaria, this skin condition happens when sweat glands get blocked because of heat and high humidity. Sweat is unable to get through the pores of the skin, which becomes irritated and develops a rash.

Dr Kingsley Chan, a dermatologist based in Hong Kong, says that heat rashes can be a struggle for many when the weather is hot.

The mildest and most common type of heat rash looks like small, clear spots filled with fluid, and the bumps can break easily. More serious symptoms can include inflamed bumps that are itchy or painful.

“Heat rash usually causes some discomfort but gets better on its own within days. It is definitely not infectious and cannot spread to other people,” Chan said.

He explained that while the spots can appear anywhere on the body, they are usually found on areas with skin folds. These can be the elbows, neck, armpits, and where our clothes constantly rub against the skin.

The dermatologist added that some studies have suggested that heat rash is more common in places that are hot and humid.

Dr Kingsley Chan is a dermatologist based in Hong Kong. Photo: Handout

What to do if you get heat rash

Chan pointed out that it should take a few days for the symptoms of heat rash to disappear. It is best to see a skin specialist if the spots become firm and painful or if they burst and pus oozes out, as these symptoms could point to an infection.

He added: “And of course, if you don’t leave the spots alone or if you squeeze them, there might be a chance of scarring or skin pigmentation when your skin heals.”

There are a few simple ways to prevent heat rash. These include wearing loose clothing, staying in air-conditioned areas and drinking lots of water.

You can also try to make your own cooling pad. Before using essential oil in this remedy, you should do a patch test by applying a few drops of the diluted solution on the inner forearm and waiting one day to see if there is any redness or irritation.

Make your own cooling pad

What you need:

• a soft, thin towel

• water

• peppermint, tea tree, or lavender essential oil

1. Add two to three drops of essential oil to a bowl of water.

2. Soak the towel in the mixture. Wring the towel until it is slightly damp but not dripping.

3. Place the towel in a sealed plastic bag and store it in the freezer for 15 minutes before use.

Use the puzzle below to test your knowledge of the vocabulary words in the story.

Suggested answers

• Stop and think: What are the best ways to prevent heat rash? To prevent heat rash, wear loose clothing and avoid being in the heat or humidity too much, in addition to drinking a lot of water.

• Think about it: Where are you likely to get heat rash on your body, according to the article? Heat rash often occurs where skin folds, including the armpits, elbows and neck. It also occurs often where clothes rub against your skin.

• Answer this: Why does heat rash happen? Heat rash happens when sweat glands get blocked and the sweat cannot leave the pores. This often occurs in hot temperatures and high humidity.