Heat rash, medically known as miliaria is a skin disease in which a person suffers from small red bumps or rashes that are extremely itchy and have a pricking sensation. Heat rash or prickly heat occurs when the sweat glands get clogged by the dead skin cells and the trapped sweat cause irritation in the skin.
These then form tiny blisters and cause discomfort. Although, heat rashes can occur anywhere, the most common areas are the face, neck, chest, waistline and back. It affects mostly children and infants, but sometimes adults who are overweight or who engage in activities that provoke sweating, suffers it too.
Heat rashes usually last for a few days or weeks and heal by themselves. But one can definitely quicken the process of healing by taking a few simple measures. Here are a few simple home remedies for treating heat rash.
Natural Cures For Heat Rash
Cold Compress Or Ice
Applying cold compress or ice on the heat rash will help in reducing the inflammation and also give it a cooling effect. Heat rashes can be extremely itchy and the prickly sensation makes it even worse. Therefore, applying a clean cotton cloth soaked in ice water will help a lot. Do this several times a day, in regular intervals. You will feel instant relief from this.
Oatmeal
Oatmeal is a well-known remedy for curing heat rashes. It soothes the skin, makes it soft and relives from itchiness. The best way to use oatmeal is by putting it in your bath water.
Grind a few tablespoon of oatmeal and mix it in a bucket of water. Take a bath with this water. Another way of doing this is by putting a cup of oatmeal in a stocking and tying it up to make a pouch. Use this to gently rub on the affected area. Do not rub it too hard and always remember to take bath with cold water as it helps in soothing the skin.
Aloe Vera
Time and again we have stressed on the fact that aloe vera is one plant that is packed with several beneficial properties that have cured a number of skin diseases. Heat rash is no different. Applying aloe vera gel or pulp will reduce the swelling and itchiness drastically. Regular use of it will cure your heat rash in no time. Aloe vera has cooling effects along with anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. Apply fresh aloe vera by slicing a leaf into half and scooping out the pulp. Dab it directly on the affected area. Do not rub it in or agitate the area. If you are using aloe vera gel, make sure to use good quality, pure aloe vera gel.
Also Read
How To Treat Heat Rash Naturally
Home Remedies For Rashes
Home Remedies For Skin Allergies
Home Remedies For Skin Rashes
Herbal Remedies For Rashes
Neem
Neem is an herb that has been used in soaps and medicines since ages. It is packed with anti-bacterial and antiseptic properties. In fact, in most traditional homes, neem leaves are used while taking baths every day.
Just adding a few fresh leaves in the bathing water is enough to keep skin diseases at bay. For prickly heat or heat rashes, make a paste of neem leaves and apply it directly on the affected area. Leave for an hour or so. If possible leave it overnight. You will notice the heat rash healing quickly. Do this every day for best results.
Baking Powder
Baking powder is a miracle product. It has endless uses, not only in the kitchen but also for treating skin problems. It is excellent for curing skin irritations like heat rash as it has anti-bacterial properties. Fill the tub with slightly lukewarm water and add half a cup of baking soda. Soak in this water for 20-30 minutes. Do not wash off. Another way of doing this is by simply adding about 2-3 tablespoons of baking soda in slightly warm water and taking a bath with it. Pat dry with a clean towel. Do this at least two times a day to get best results.
These were the most effective natural cures for treating heat rashes. If the rashes continue for more than a few weeks it is advisable to consult a doctor.
Caution: Please use Home Remedies after Proper Research and Guidance. You accept that you are following any advice at your own risk and will properly research or consult healthcare professional.