You can do many things in the comfort of your own home to soothe a heat rash.
Take Cool Baths and Showers
A cool bath or shower can do double-duty:
- It cools down your body.
- A gentle wash can unclog pores that are contributing to the rash.
When you get out, if possible, you should let your skin air-dry rather than rub it down with a towel.
Wear Loose Clothing
When you have a heat rash, be sure to wear clothing that allows irritated skin to heal. It’s important to choose light fabrics and loose-fitting garments that don’t chafe.
For sports, look for fitness clothing that wicks moisture so you can keep sweat from collecting and exacerbating the rash. An alternative to moisture-wicking fabric is cotton, which breathes well and therefore allows damp skin to dry.
Get Out of the Heat
You don’t want to let yourself overheat when you already have a heat rash. Avoiding heat and staying in an air-conditioned environment as much as possible can help. If you don’t have access to A/C, consider fans, especially to keep your bedroom cool overnight.
If you aren’t able to cool down your home, consider going somewhere cooler. That could include the mall, a movie theater, a restaurant, or a friend’s house.
Avoid Thick Personal Care Products
Heavy moisturizers, lotions, and ointments can further clog your pores, which can make your heat rash worse.2 Choose lighter-weight products for the summer months, or skip them altogether while your skin recovers from heat rash.
Apply Cool Compresses
Cold compresses can cool and soothe your skin when you have a heat rash. You can use a wet washcloth or wrap an ice pack in a towel. Just be sure you allow the area to dry thoroughly afterward.
Ice and gel ice packs should never be applied directly to your skin. Use an appropriate cloth barrier to protect your skin.
Take an Anti-Itch Bath
This is easy to do at home using oatmeal, baking soda, orĀ Epsom salt. Any one of those will relieve the itchiness of your heat rash.
Don’t use bubble baths or bath bombs, even if their ingredients sound soothing. They may also contain ingredients that dry or irritate your sensitive skin.