Summer heat rashes: What makes it worse and how to prevent them

If your skin breaks out in red, itchy patches during the summer, especially after wearing tight or synthetic clothes, you're not alone. It’s likely heat rash—something I used to deal with every year. Turns out, fabrics like polyester trap heat and sweat, making it worse. Taking care of your skin during warmer months or in humid weather is all about consistency and awareness. But first, let’s understand what causes heat rashes in summer:

What’s a heat rash?

According to Dolly Shah, clinical cosmetologist and skincare creator, “Heat rashes happen when sweat gets trapped in your pores, causing irritation. They show up as small red bumps that itch or sting, especially in hot, humid weather. This skin ailment, which is often referred to as miliaria or prickly heat, is brought on by clogged sweat ducts that trap perspiration beneath the skin. Redness, itching, and tiny pimples on the skin may result from this trapped perspiration. The rash, which can develop on the face, neck, chest, or back, is frequently most prevalent in hot, muggy conditions.”

What makes it worse?

According to Nandhithaa Gopinathan, Skincare expert and creator, “Sweat and trapped moisture on skin create the ideal environment for bacteria and fungi. A key step in avoiding common issues like sweat dermatitis, fungal infections, or allergies is keeping your skin cool and dry. Besides sweat and heat, the clothes you wear matter. Tight or non-breathable fabrics like nylon or polyester prevent sweat from drying, increasing your chances of rashes.”



How to prevent it:

Wear loose, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen

Wearing light, breathable fabrics and changing out of damp clothes promptly helps. Also, washing clothes thoroughly after each use removes sweat, dirt, and allergens that can irritate your skin.

Stay in the shade or carry an umbrella

Avoid being out in peak sun hours. If this is unavoidable, try to stay in the shade or pull out an umbrella or sport a hat to prevent direct heat and sunlight.

Bath and clean every day

A simple daily bath does more than refresh—it removes sweat, dust, and irritants, reducing the risk of infections and flare-ups. If you’re allergy-prone, limit exposure to triggers like pollen or dust, and avoid scratching itchy areas to prevent inflammation or skin damage.

Skin routine to help:

• Use products with soothing, non-clogging ingredients:
• Panthenol, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, zinc oxide
• Fungal infections need antifungal creams or medications.
• For treatment, antihistamines can help manage allergic reactions—always under medical guidance.
• Cleanse gently, hydrate well, and don’t skip sunscreen
• Keep skin moisturized to prevent dryness and irritation.
• Lastly, eat a water-rich, anti-inflammatory diet to support your skin from within.

Healthy skin comes from a mix of smart habits, proper care, and balanced nutrition. A little care goes a long way in keeping heat rashes away!

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