We love that warmer weather seems to finally be here (for the moment at least), but it can bring with it a number of skin irritations, one of which is heat rash. This skin flare-up – also known as prickly heat or miliaria – is common in hot weather, especially in babies and children, and causes uncomfortable redness and itching.
If you've always been stumped by what causes prickly heat, how to soothe it and, even better, how to prevent it in the first place, we're here to help with some expert advice and top product picks to make summer that bit more comfortable.
Heat rash, or pricky heat, can be a nuisance in summer (Getty)What causes heat rash?
"Prickly heat occurs when sweat ducts become blocked, trapping sweat beneath the skin," says Charlotte Vøhtz, organic beauty expert and founder of Green People. "The condition is common in hot and humid weather and can affect anyone."
"Another common cause of blocked sweat glands is waterproof sunscreens," Charlotte adds. "These sunscreens often contain ingredients such as mineral oils and silicone, which can block your pores. Applying these ingredients is similar to wrapping your skin in cling film and can aggravate prickly heat by reducing the amount of sweat that can escape."
What does heat rash look like?
According to the NHS website, symptoms of prickly heat including small, raised spots (which appear red on white skin but may be harder to see on darker skin tones), an itchy, prickly feeling and mild swelling. In more severe cases, the inflamed bumps may fill with pus. These symptoms usually last until the body cools down and the skin can regulate its temperature properly again.
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A red, itchy rash is a symptom of heat rash (NHS)How to prevent heat rash
It's important to keep your body cool in hot weather; wear loose, cotton clothing, take cool showers, invest in one of the best fans and stay hydrated, advises the NHS.
Switching your sun cream to a silicone-free formula like Green People Scent Free Sun Cream SPF30, £31, may also help, says Charlotte. "Many of Green People's natural and organic sun creams are dermatologically tested and clinically proven to be kind to sensitive skin," she says. "They use natural plant waxes to make them water-repellent and refuse to use pore-clogging ingredients, which can aggravate prickly heat."
Don't forget that this formula may not last as well in the water as more resilient formulas, so reapply as soon as you're out of the water or every two hours as a minimum.
For the face, try Nivea Sun UV Face Sensitive SPF 50, currently £6.50, which is fragrance-free and designed for those with skin sensitivities or allergies.
Formulated without silicones (Green People)
An option for the face (Amazon)How to get rid of heat rash quickly
The best way to soothe heat rash quickly is by cooling down the skin; try gently pressing a cold compress or ice pack on the pack for a few minutes.
The NHS website also advises that taking antihistamine tablets or dabbing on a calamine lotion such as this £2.50 Boots formula may help to calm the skin.
Meanwhile Amazon shoppers have been raving about E45 Itch Relief Coolmousse, currently £6.65, with one happy customer writing, “This product is absolutely fantastic! Works exactly as described! It’s a life saver for summer heat rashes and instantly cools, providing relief! It’s now a must-have in my bag this summer! Would definitely recommend it.”
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