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How to Get Rid of Heat Rash Quickly, According to Doctors

By Beth Ann Mayer,

6 days ago

Sunburn and bug bite prevention take centerstage each summer. We're not here to throw shade at SPF or bug spray, but a lesser-discussed but highly pesky summer skin condition deserves a moment in the sun: Heat rash. Understanding the dos and don'ts of heat rash treatment and prevention.

"Heat rash, or miliaria, is the red bumpy rash that occurs when your skin is irritated from heat and perspiration from blockage of the sweat glands," says Dr. Susan Massick, MD , the associate professor of dermatology and board-certified dermatologist at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. "Heat rash is absolutely related to the environment—if you can avoid triggers, then you can prevent flare-ups."

The word "miliaria" may raise alarm bells, but the good news is that heat rash generally harmless. The bad news is that "harmless" doesn't mean "not annoying," and it may be a cosmetic concern.

"Heat rash can cause discomfort due to inflammation and itching," says Dr. Viktoryia Kazlouskaya, MD, Ph.D . , the CEO of Dermatology Circle PLLC. "Additionally, it may cause alarm for some patients."

Dr. Kazlouska agrees with Dr. Massick—understanding how to soothe and prevent heat rash can help you avoid a summer bummer. Experts shared heat rash treatment, including how to get rid of a rash overnight (seriously).

What Is Heat Rash?

As the name implies, it's a rash that becomes more common during warmer months. "Heat rash, also known as prickly heat or miliaria, is a common skin condition that occurs when sweat ducts become blocked, trapping sweat beneath the skin," says Dr. Alexis Young, MD , a dermatologist with Hackensack University Medical Center. "This causes small, itchy bumps or blisters to appear."

While some conditions, like acne, are more common in certain demographics, age isn't a factor in heat rash, explains Dr. Joshua Feinstein, MD , an emergency room physician with Memorial Hermann. It makes sense—we all sweat to regulate our body temperature. On that note, while it's more common in the summer, you can get heat rash any time of year.

"It can be triggered by anything that causes sweating, but it is typically worse in hot and humid conditions, with strenuous workouts or when something is stopping the sweat from getting out," Dr. Feinstein says.

Dr. Feinstein says common heat rash culprits sweat trapped because the skin is covered in:

Dirt
Lotions
Creams
Ointments
Clothing

What Does Heat Rash Look Like?

You can get many rashes and bumps throughout the year, including poison ivy and bug bites. Heat rash signs vary. "Heat rash can appear in several ways, depending on the severity," Dr. Young says. "The most common form of heat rash appears as small, red bumps that may be itchy or burning. These bumps may also be filled with pus and appear on the neck, chest, back and armpits."

The mildest form of heat rash involves tiny, red and clear blisters filled with fluids.

"These blisters usually appear on the chest, back and neck," Dr. Young says. "The most severe form of heat rash appears as deep, firm bumps that are often flesh-colored or red. These bumps may not be itchy, but they can be painful and typically appear on the upper arms, thighs, and back. In the mildest form, it appears as tiny, clear blisters filled with fluid."

OK, but what is the difference between heat rash and some of those aforementioned seasonal hazards like poison ivy?

The most straightforward answer is: "You can distinguish heat rash from other potential causes of rash by the circumstances and appearance of the rash," Dr. Massick says. In other words: Small, red bumps that pop up after you've spent time in the sun.

There are a few other nuances, too. "Heat rash does not involve nails and mucous membranes as some rashes can," Dr. Kazlouskaya says.

If in doubt, Dr. Kazlouskaya suggests booking an evaluation with a dermatologist.

How To Get Rid Of Heat Rash Quickly (Or Even Overnight)

Wondering how to get rid of heat bumps and other symptoms stat? It's possible and often can be done in the comfort of your own home. Dr. Kazlouskaya recommends:

Cooling and cold compresses : "These reduce sweating and soothe the skin," Dr. Kazlouskaya says.
Moisturizing. Dr. Kazlouskaya explains that moisturizer helps "prevent sweat duct occlusion by keeping the skin soft."
Light exfoliation. Dr. Kazlouskaya says this step also lowers duct occlusion by nixing dead skin cells.
Topical steroid creams. These products lower inflammation.
Topical antibiotic creams. If there is a bacterial infection, these creams can help you heal.
Advanced treatment by a dermatologist. While rare, Dr. Kazlouskaya says this step is "necessary for severe or persistent cases, especially if bacterial infection is involved."

Can you actually get rid of heat rash overnight, though? Maybe. "Heat rash, especially its superficial form, may disappear overnight," Dr. Kazlouskaya says. "Cooling measures and cold compresses can help speed up this process. Deeper forms of miliaria may persist for a few days and even weeks."

How To Prevent Heat Rash

Knowing how to get rid of heat bumps is vital, as heat rash can happen to anyone. Plan A is still to prevent heat rash in the first place. Dr. Kazlouskaya's top tips to avoid heat rash include:

Reducing heat exposure. Prioritize spending time in cooler environments to reduce your odds of sweating.
Use air conditioning. The AC in your home and vehicle will help your skin stay cool and dry.
Wear lightweight, loose-fitting skin. Nixing body-con outfits and skin-tight biker shorts give the skin room to breathe and minimize friction and sweating.
Stay hydrated. Sweat helps your body regulate temperature, as does sipping fluids like water. Dr. Kazlouskaya explains that hydration also reduces excessive sweating.
Take cool showers. Like drinking water, cool showers (and baths) keep body temperature down and are soothing.
Avoid heavy lotions and creams. " These can block sweat ducts and exacerbate the condition," Dr. Kazlouskaya says.

How Long Does Heat Rash Last?

It depends on the severity. "Mild cases of heat rash usually clear up within a few days," Dr. Young says. "With proper care, such as staying cool, wearing loose clothing and avoiding sweating, the rash may disappear within 24 to 48 hours." More severe heat rash cases can take more time—a week or longer.

"This is especially true if the rash becomes infected or you continue to sweat heavily," Dr. Young says.

Sometimes, you may need to seek medical attention. "You should see a doctor, in particular a board-certified dermatologist, if your rash starts to look infected, particularly if you’ve been scratching," Dr. Massick says.

Dr. Young added a few more red flags. "I also suggest calling your health care provider if the rash is accompanied by fever, chills or other symptoms of infection or if the rash is located on your face or genitals," Dr. Young says.

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Sources

Dr. Susan Massick, MD, the associate professor of dermatology and board-certified dermatologist at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center
Dr. Alexis Young, MD , a dermatologist with Hackensack University Medical Center
Dr. Viktoryia Kazlouskaya, MD, Ph.D. , the CEO of Dermatology Circle PLLC
Dr. Joshua Feinstein, MD , an emergency room physician with Memorial Hermann