While summer has many perks to it, it has a few downfalls too. One of them is the sticky heat. Not only is it uncomfortable to bear, it also leads to a number of skin problems including tanning, sun burn and most commonly, prickly heat. At some point or another, most individuals have suffered from the dreadful red bumps when summer time arrives. But why does it happen and how do we fix it? We've got the answers. Before the humidity hits and temperatures rise, find out more about prickly heat and how you can keep it in check this season.
What is it?
Prickly heat is a skin condition that is defined by small red bumps that appear in patches across various parts of the body. It is also known by a few names like heat rash, sweat rash and its diagnostic name, miliaria rubaria. Prickly heat is by no means a serious condition and can be easily treated at home. However, it can be extremely uncomfortable in addition to the heat so if no signs of improvement show after a few weeks, please visit a medical professional.
Why does it occur?
Many wonder why prickly heat occurs in the first place. The answer is simple, really. According to Healthline, prickly heat can strike at any time in the year but is most common during hot, humid months. One's body produces sweat to cool the body down. When sweat is produced in excess or the glands get blocked by being trapped on the body, between layers of skin or under restrictive clothes, it leads to the bumpy rash.
How do you treat it?
The first step to treating prickly heat is identifying what caused it in the first place. The rash is often seen in areas when skin folds and blocks the glands. Wearing synthetic fabrics that don't absorb sweat and lead it to accumulate also causes prickly heat.
A simple way to start off is by washing your body and the affected area twice a day with cold water and drying it completely with a cotton towel. Wear breathable fabrics like cotton and linen, not just for style but also for your sweat to be absorbed rather than accumulated. Loose, relaxed fits are always a good idea as opposed to tight, fitted clothes in summer.
Simple home remedies like applying fresh aloe vera pulp, cucumber or watermelon flesh or even ice cubes to the affected area can cool it down greatly. Ensure you keep it clean and dry once you do so.
Even simpler is over-the-counter remedies like calamine lotion or prickly heat powder with ingredients like menthol. These products will refresh the skin and treat the area. Just make sure you reapply a few times a day.
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That's all you need to take on the summer without the fear of prickly heat.
