Last updated on December 1st, 2023 at 03:44 pm
It’s hot outside. Your toddlers are cranky, and suddenly they develop a red or pinkish rash covering their skin. Have no fear! Treating heat rash is simple for the ones you hold dear. And since the sizzling summer heat is here to stay, it’s time to keep that pesky ‘heat rash’ at bay! So, before you dash off to the doctor or pharmacy, here are a few tips on how to deal, and help your multiples heal.
What is Heat Rash and What Causes It?
Most commonly known as ‘prickly’ heat, this is a skin condition associated with slightly raised, red bumps that develop on the skin, in areas primarily covered by clothing. Prevalent in babies and toddlers, heat rash generally occurs when a child is overheated, (due to being dressed too warmly or due to exposure to extreme humidity), and moisture gets trapped in their small pores/sweat ducts, which may cause both discomfort and itching.
Treating ‘Heat Rash’
Treating heat rash doesn’t have to be tricky. Should you notice your toddlers becoming uncomfortable or itchy, there are several things you can do to soothe them. Since heat rash originates from exposure to extreme temperatures, the first thing you should do is move your children into a cooler area. Whether it’s outside in the shade, or in an air-conditioned room, keeping cool is key.
Next, try loosing or removing any tight or excessive clothing. Instead try having your toddlers wear loose or cotton clothing that will prevent any moisture from being trapped from within.
If your children’s skin is still very moist to the touch, try letting it air dry, and if you must, use cotton towels to absorb sweat.
In severe cases of heat rash, there are still several things you can do to help your little ones through. Apply a cool, wet washcloth to the affected areas of the rash. Or try a lukewarm bath with either Aveeno Oatmeal Bath or baking soda in it. Afterward, use Gold Bond Baby Powder to keep the area moisture free.
For extremely irritated skin, use calamine lotion or hydrocortisone cream with your doctor’s approval. However, you should never treat heat rash with any ointments, moisturizers, or oil-based products.
To prevent further infection, trim your toddlers’ fingernails to avoid scratching the affected area and keep them hydrated.
Additional Facts about ‘Heat Rash’
While there are many misconceptions associated with ‘heat rash,’ one of the most common is confusing this condition for impetigo, eczema, folliculitis, and poison ivy. Unlike some of these other skin infections, heat rash is potentially harmless.
However harmless, another form of heat rash is also known as Miliaria Crystallina. Similar
to ‘prickly’ heat, this form of heat rash occurs when sweat ducts become blocked and rupture, without inflammation, which result in the appearance of small, clear vesicles on the skin without any additional symptoms.
Apply the same treatments as you would with any form of heat rash, and hopefully, you will beat the heat this summer with assured success!
