This summer has brought unbearable heat to millions in the United States, and many are experiencing heat waves, which are a combination of unusually high temperatures and high humidity. Unfortunately, this type of weather can cause heat rashes, a common condition that arises during the hotter months.
When you or a loved one develops a heat rash, it’s important to tend to it immediately to prevent further complications. Having the right supplies at home can help you treat this heat-related condition.
Shop this article: Medcosa Adult Rash Cream, Humco Calamine Lotion and Chamuel Tea Tree Oil Balm
According to the Mayo Clinic, a heat rash develops when sweat becomes trapped in the skin. This condition primarily affects babies, but adults can also get heat rashes in hot, humid weather conditions.
Symptoms of heat rash can include the following:
For adults, these symptoms typically appear where your skin folds, such as the armpits, or where clothes rub against your skin. In babies, heat rashes are found on their neck, chest and shoulders. Heat rash may also appear on the armpits, elbow creases and groin.
There are four types of heat rash:
According to the Mayo Clinic, there are a few risk factors for developing heat rashes, such as:
Here are tips for treating and managing a heat rash, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
If your heat rash worsens and causes symptoms such as intense itching and infection or lasts longer than a week, seek medical attention.
Even in a heat wave, there are ways to limit your risk of developing a heat rash.
Below are some tips for preventing heat rashes:
This cream relieves red, raw and itchy skin from heat rashes. It can be applied on almost every body part for relief. It acts as a barrier to retain natural moisture and keep out unwanted wetness that worsens heat rashes.
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CeraVe Hydrocortisone Anti-Itch Cream
Relieve itchiness from a heat rash with hydrocortisone cream. This cream contains 1% of maximum strength hydrocortisone and essential ceramides and is fragrance-free.
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Gold Bond Friction Defense Stick
This friction stick can help prevent heat rashes. It can reduce friction and moisture and soothe the skin. It has a non-greasy, unscented formula and is safe for sensitive skin.
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Keep extra moisture away from your heat rash with zinc oxide ointment. This ointment seals out wetness to help your rash heal. It contains 20% zinc oxide as a skin protectant.
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Get full coverage and protection with this rash cream. It has a unique formula that helps neutralize and block irritants. It contains vitamin E and zinc oxide and is paraben-free.
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Calamine lotion can relieve itching from heat rashes. This anti-itch medication provides a cooling sensation on the skin. It also stops wounds from oozing or weeping.
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Tylenol Extra Strength Acetaminophen Rapid Release Gels
Pain and fever are symptoms of heat rashes, so having pain medication on hand can provide relief. These 100-count gel capsules contain 500 milligrams of acetaminophen for extra-strength pain relief. It also acts as a fever reducer. Children ages 12 and older can use it.
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Domeboro Medicated Rash Relief Soak
This medicated soak dries out oozing rashes and relieves itching. It contains 12 powder packs that you’ll place in a bath to soothe your heat rash.
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This balm contains 100% all-natural ingredients to relieve heat rash symptoms. It contains ingredients such as tea tree oil, green tea, peppermint oil, lavender oil, olive oil and lemon oil. It's dermatologist-tested and pediatrician-approved.
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Protect your heat from additional wetness and speed up healing with this ointment. It contains calamine, chlorothymol, glycerin, phenol, sodium bicarbonate and thymol. Cleanse the area before applying the ointment.
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Taneia Surles writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.