Baby Heat Rash

In order to treat your baby's heat rash, you need to understand what causes heat rash.

Heat rash is an eruption of little bumps on the skin that can show up when your baby overheats. Babies are most susceptible to heat rash. Most babies get a heat rash during the summer months. You will probably notice is on their face or neck first.



Causes of heat rash

Heat rash often occurs when the sweat glands are very active, so it's easier for them to become clogged with sweat, causing the rash. But done worry heat rash is not a serious condition.

Heat rash or prickly heat is caused by the blockage of the pores that lead to the sweat glands. It is most common in very young children but can occur at any age, particularly in hot and humid weather. An infant does not sweat. The sweat is held within the skin and forms little red bumps or occasionally small blisters.

Hot, humid weather is prime time for heat rash, but you might see it in winter, too, if your baby is wearing too many layers of clothing or is running a fever. Sometimes a baby will get heat rash after a cough ointment is rubbed on his chest.


How can you treat baby heat rash?

Heat rash or prickly heat is best treated by providing a cooler and less humid environment for the child.

Start by cooling your baby off. Loosen or remove his clothing, and move him into an airy room or a shady spot.

You might place him on a cotton towel, which can help absorb his sweat. Apply cool, wet washcloths to the areas affected by the rash. A lukewarm bath with a little baking soda — 2 teaspoons per gallon — can also help.

If it's hot at night, use an air conditioner or a fan in your baby's room. Direct the fan near your baby but not directly on him. Or place it far enough away so that only a gentle breeze reaches him. You want your baby to be comfortable, not chilled.

Powders are unlikely to help treat heat rash and should be stored out of reach of the infant to prevent accidental inhalation. Avoid ointments and creams because they tend to keep the skin warmer and block the pores.



Is heat rash painful for my baby?

No, it isn't usually painful, but it can be itchy. Some of the bumps may be tender to the touch.





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