What are Prickly Heat Rashes?
Prickly Heat also known as Miliaria (Scientific), Sweat Rash, Heat Rash (Common English), Ghamori (Hindi/Urdu), Ghamole (Marathi), Verkkuru (Tamil), Feizi (Chinese), Sarpullido (Spanish), Brotoeja (Portuguese), Ghamaci (Bengali), Potnitsa (Russian). Prickly heat occurs as a result of sweat duct blockage. Excessive dampness of the skin for long period can also cause prickly heat rashes. Hot and humid weather at tropical places and in summer can contribute sweat rash. The main symptoms of miliaria are itchy rash on the face, red spots on body (papules), and patches of eczema. Prickly heat rashes usually disappears within hours of the sufferer moving into the shade, or his or her acclimatization. Generally Miliaria crystalline, Miliaria rubra, Miliaria profunda and Miliaria pustulosa are different levels of heat rashes.
What Causes Prickly Heat Rashes?
Sweat gland blockage is the main cause. This blockage can be caused by dead skin cells or by bacteria such as Staphylococcus epidermidis. This can cause itching, irritation and small blisters on body. Rashes can occur anywhere on body but upper chest, neck, elbow creases, back, under the breasts and under the scrotum are some common places for heat rashes. Tight cloths can rub against the sensitive body and can also cause prickly heat. Try our simple home remedies to get rid of prickly heat rashes. But if rashes start getting develop into open blisters or pustular lesions consult your doctor right way.
Prickly Heat Rashes Home Remedies
9 Best prickly heat rashes and miliaria natural home remedies for babies and adults. Also there are tips to enjoy sweat free summer.
- Neem Leaves: Neem leaves makes the powerful natural remedy as it has bacteria fighting properties. Grind fresh Neem leaves to make a paste. Apply on rashes and wash once dried completely. Its antiseptic properties will fasten the healing process.
- Sandalwood and Turmeric: Sandalwood and turmeric has anti bacterial properties which is effective on red rashes. Make a paste of sandalwood and turmeric by mixing equal amounts of these herbs with a little cool water. Apply gently to the rash area. Sandalwood will give you a cooling effect where as turmeric is considered as anti bacterial. Also keep your clothes clean. If you sweat easily, then change your clothes more often.
- Aloe Vera: Apply Aloe Vera cream to the itchy rashes. You can also use some pure Aloe Vera gel (with no preservatives added), or if you have access to an aloe plant, lightly rub a piece of the plant on the infected area.
- Fullers Earth: Fullers earth clay with it’s cooling effect makes perfect Indian cure for heat rashes. Mix fullers earth (multani mitti) with rose water to make thick paste. Apply it on rashes and let it dry. Wash with cold water once dried. It will absorb the heat and will lessen the irritation.
- Homemade DIY Herbal Deodorant: Try a homemade herbal deodorant. Take cloves, myrrh, coriander seeds, cassia, lavender flowers, and thyme, in equal amounts and ground into a powder. Use in the bath, or under the arms. This may cause a rash in sensitive people.
- Calamine Lotion: Calamine lotion is effective to relieve itching and irritation. Calamine lotion and hydrocortisone cream can relieve itching and irritation. Avoid oil based products.
- Chickweed: Make cold compress for heat rash with chickweed. Chickweed infusions can be made into cool compresses and applied to the affected area. If possible also apply it’s ointment.
- Cypress Oil: Cypress oil is astringent and refreshing, and can be massaged into the feet for excess perspiration, or combined with lavender oil in a light massage oil and massaged under the arms. A cool bath can be soothing for sufferers of prickly heat, but use mild soap.
- Marigold: Marigold infusion can be drunk to produce a perspiration increase, when necessary.
7 Tips for Keeping Cool and Avoiding Prickly Heat This Summer
Prickly heat is an uncomfortable skin condition that can affect anyone, but is especially common in hot and humid climates. It is caused by sweat glands becoming blocked and leading to an itchy, red rash.
- Wear light clothing which offers proper air circulation.
- Sprinkle baking soda in your shoes to absorb moisture. Your feet will stay drier longer. Like cornstarch, baking soda will absorb sweat and hinder the fungi that thrive in damp conditions.
- Fill an empty box of your favorite scented powder with baking soda, a natural odor eliminator. use the puff to apply the newly scented baking soda to underarms.
- Use air conditioning to cool the house.
- Manage stress. A person’s psychological state affects body sweating. You may have noticed that, when nervous, not only do you sweat more, but you also smell worse than after a carefree run on a tropical beach.
- Avoid activities that induce sweating.
- Under arm antiperspirants contain aluminum salts, which temporarily block sweat gland ducts. Aluminum can alter DNA and the binding of estrogen to breast cells. Test-tube studies indicate possible cancer-causing effects. So be careful while using such products.
FAQs
Q. How do you get rid of prickly heat fast?
- Take cool or lukewarm showers frequently.
- Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing made from natural fabrics such as cotton.
- Avoid excessive sweating by staying in air-conditioned rooms and avoiding activities that cause you to sweat a lot.
- Keep the affected area dry by patting it with a clean, soft towel after showers.
- Apply a prickly heat powder or calamine lotion to the affected area to soothe the skin and prevent further sweating.
- Avoid exposure to direct sunlight and extreme heat.
- Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
Q. Is Aloe Vera good for prickly heat? How to use it?
Yes, aloe vera is a natural remedy for prickly heat. It can help to soothe the skin and reduce inflammation. Additionally, it can help to protect the skin against infection and may help to reduce the spread of prickly heat. To use aloe vera for prickly heat –
- Apply aloe vera gel directly to the affected areas after a shower. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes and then rinse it off.
- Alternatively, you can also add a few drops of tea tree oil to the aloe vera gel before applying it to the affected areas for an added anti-inflammatory and cooling effect.
- You can also make an aloe vera paste by mixing aloe vera gel with a few drops of water. Apply this paste to the affected areas and leave it on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing it off with lukewarm water.
- You can also make a cooling aloe vera spray to help soothe the itching and burning sensations associated with prickly heat. Mix aloe vera gel with a few drops of lavender essential oil and a cup of water in a spray bottle. Shake it well and spray it on the affected areas.
Q. How do I get rid of prickly heat overnight for babies?
To get rid of prickly heat overnight for babies, try using a cool compress or damp cloth to soothe affected areas. If necessary, your baby’s pediatrician may also recommend using a topical cream or lotion to help reduce itching and redness. Additionally, it is important to keep your baby’s skin clean and dry by changing clothes and bedding frequently and avoiding the use of tight-fitting clothing. Finally, make sure your baby is getting plenty of fluids to help prevent dehydration.
Q. How to use turmeric to cure prickly heat?
- Make a paste of turmeric and water and apply it to the affected areas.
- Let the paste dry and then rinse it off with lukewarm water.
- Do this twice a day for at least a week to get relief from prickly heat.
- You can also add a few drops of neem oil to the paste for added relief.
- You can also add a tablespoon of sandalwood powder to the turmeric paste. Apply this to the affected area and leave it on for 30 minutes before washing it off.
- To reduce itching and inflammation, make a paste of turmeric and yogurt and apply it to the affected area. Leave it on for 15 minutes before washing it off.
- You can also make a paste of turmeric and honey and apply it to the affected area. Leave it on for 15 minutes before washing it off.
Q. Is lemon good for prickly heat? Does lemon help prickly heat?
Yes, lemon can be beneficial for prickly heat. Lemon juice has anti-inflammatory and cooling properties, which can help reduce the itching, discomfort, and inflammation associated with prickly heat. Applying lemon juice to the affected area can help provide relief from the symptoms of prickly heat.
- Cut a lemon in half and squeeze the juice into a bowl.
- Dip a cotton ball into the lemon juice and apply it directly to the affected areas.
- Allow it to sit for a few minutes and then rinse it off with cool water.
- Repeat this process several times a day for best results.
- You can also mix equal parts of lemon juice and rose water and apply it to the affected area with a cotton ball.
- Allow it to sit for about 10 minutes before rinsing it off with cool water.
- You can follow this remedy twice daily for relief from prickly heat.
Q. How to prevent heat rash?
- Wear loose, lightweight, and breathable clothing.
- Keep your skin cool and dry.
- Avoid activities that cause excessive sweating.
- Avoid tight clothing and synthetic fabrics.
- Use a mild, fragrance-free soap when showering or bathing.
- Apply a cool compress to the affected area.
- Apply a soothing lotion or cream to the area.
- Try to stay in cool and dry environments.
- Avoid using creams or ointments that contain petroleum or mineral oil.
- Avoid using products that contain alcohol or other irritating ingredients.
Q. Does prickly heat leave marks?
Yes, prickly heat can leave marks. The marks can range from red bumps to dark blotches, depending on the severity of the condition.
Q. What is prickly heat?
Prickly heat, also known as miliaria, is a skin rash caused by sweat ducts becoming blocked and sweat becoming trapped under the skin. It is often characterized by small, red, itchy bumps and can be aggravated by warm climates, excessive sweating, and wearing tight clothing.
Q. Is coconut oil good for prickly heat?
Yes, coconut oil is a good remedy for prickly heat. It has anti-inflammatory and cooling properties that help reduce irritation, redness, and swelling associated with the condition. Additionally, coconut oil is a natural moisturizer that helps keep your skin hydrated and prevents further outbreaks of prickly heat. To use it
- Start by cleaning the affected area with mild soap and water. Pat the area dry.
- Apply a thin layer of coconut oil to the affected area.
- Let the oil sit for 10-15 minutes before rinsing it off with lukewarm water.
- Repeat this process a few times a day to help soothe the prickly heat.
- Take cool showers and baths to help keep your skin cool and reduce the intensity of the heat.
- Wear loose, light clothing to help keep the affected area cool and dry.
Q. How does prickly heat powder cool you off?
Prickly heat powder cools you off by absorbing moisture and sweat. It also helps keep your skin dry, which prevents the prickly heat rash from getting worse. The powder also contains cooling ingredients such as menthol and camphor, which can help soothe the skin and reduce the itching and burning sensation caused by the rash.
Q. Can modified cornstarch be used as prickly heat powder? Or does it need to be native starch?
Modified cornstarch can be used as a prickly heat powder, but it is not as effective as native starch. Native starch is more absorbent and helps wick away sweat and moisture better than modified cornstarch.
Q. Does standing in the rain prevent prickly heat? Do we get relief from prickly heat and rashes by getting wet in the first rain?
Yes, getting wet in the first rain of the monsoon season can help to provide some relief from prickly heat and rashes. The coolness of the rain and the humidity can help to soothe the skin. It is important to make sure that you dry off afterwards and avoid staying out in the rain for too long.
Q. How to use corn starch for prickly heat?
- Start by mixing together equal parts cornstarch and cool water until it forms a paste.
- Apply the paste to the affected area and allow it to dry.
- Rinse the area with cool water and pat dry.
- Repeat this process as often as needed to relieve discomfort from prickly heat.
Q. What foods help prickly heat?
- Coconut water: Coconut water is high in electrolytes, which can help cool and hydrate the skin.
- Oatmeal: Oatmeal is an anti-inflammatory and helps soothe and cool the skin.
- Cucumber: Cucumber is an anti-inflammatory and can help cool and soothe the skin.
- Yogurt: Yogurt contains probiotics, which can help cool the skin and reduce inflammation.
- Aloe Vera: Aloe vera is an anti-inflammatory and helps soothe and cool the skin.
- Chamomile Tea: Chamomile tea is a natural anti-inflammatory and helps soothe and cool the skin.
- Bitter Gourd: Bitter gourd has cooling and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce prickly heat.
Q. Is Sandalwood good for prickly heat? How to use it?
Yes, sandalwood is a great remedy for prickly heat. It can be applied directly to the affected area to soothe the skin and reduce inflammation. You can also make a paste by mixing sandalwood powder with rosewater or water and apply it to the skin.
Q. How do I stop getting prickly heat every time I sweat?
The best way to prevent prickly heat is to keep your skin cool and dry. Wear light and loose-fitting clothing made of natural fibers such as cotton. Avoid wearing synthetic fabrics, which can trap sweat and heat against your skin. When you do sweat, dry off as soon as possible with a clean, dry towel. Avoid using harsh soaps and cleansers, which can dry out and irritate your skin. Taking a cool shower or bath can also help to keep your skin cool and dry. If the prickly heat persists, consider using a topical anti-itch cream or taking an over-the-counter to reduce itching.
Q. Why am I prone to prickly heat and rashes? It gets very bad during the peak of summer.
Prickly heat and rashes can be caused by a variety of things, including excessive sweating, humidity, friction, and even certain skin conditions. If you are experiencing frequent rashes during the summer months, it may be helpful to wear light, loose-fitting clothing to reduce sweat and friction on your skin, and to take cool showers or baths to reduce the humidity. You may also want to consider using an over-the-counter anti-itch cream or powder to soothe your skin. If the problem persists, you should consult a dermatologist for further diagnosis and treatment.
Q. Does onion reduce heat? How to use onions for prickly heat?
Onions are thought to reduce heat in the body by reducing the symptoms of a fever. They can also help cool the body down when eaten raw. Eating onions may help reduce inflammation in the body and the sweating associated with fevers.
- Cut an onion in half and rub it directly onto the affected area. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes and then rinse off with cool water.
- Make a paste by blending onion and water together and apply directly to the affected area. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes and then rinse off with cool water.
- Make a poultice by grating an onion and mixing it with a few drops of water. Place the paste on a cloth and apply it directly to the affected area. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes and then rinse off with cool water.
- Make a compress by soaking a cloth in a mixture of onion juice and water. Place the cloth on the affected area and leave it on for 15-20 minutes. Rinse off with cool water.
Q. How to use yogurt for prickly heat?
- Begin by making a yogurt paste. Mix plain, unflavored yogurt with a little cornstarch until it forms a thick paste.
- Apply the paste directly to the affected area. Leave it on for 10-15 minutes, then rinse off with cool water.
- Repeat this process twice daily until the prickly heat rash has cleared up.
- To soothe irritation and reduce inflammation, add a few drops of lavender essential oil to the yogurt paste.