The rashes usually lighten and disappear within a few days. However, they can be discomforting for the newborn. Topical applications may relieve the sensation to some extent. Additionally, you can always try out some safe remedies to ease the discomfort and promote healing. In this article, you will know more about heat rashes and natural remedies to treat them. Read on. The clogging of pores is one of the main causes of heat rash. Friction on the skin’s surface can also trigger heat rashes. Babies often develop such rashes on their neck. However, heat rash can also develop in other skin folds, such as the thighs, armpits, and elbows. There are different types of heat rash that not only look different but also range in their severity and symptoms. [ Read: How To Get Rid Of A Skin Rash ]
Types And Symptoms Of Heat Rash In Babies
There are three types of heat rash. They include:
Miliaria crystallina: This is the most common and mildest kind of heat rash. This type is characterized by clear or white bumps on the skin that are filled with fluid. Such bumps often burst but do not pain or itch. This type of heat rash is much more common in babies than in adults. Miliaria rubra: This type of heat rash is also often referred to as prickly heat. It is more common in adults although children may also develop it. Miliaria rubra causes more discomfort as compared to miliaria crystallina as it often occurs deeper in the outer layer of the skin. The symptoms exhibited by this type of heat rash include: An itchy or prickly sensation in the affected area Red bumps on the skin Lack of sweating in the areas of the rash Inflamed and sore skin
In some instances, these bumps may also progress and become filled with pus. The doctors then refer to this rash as miliaria pustulosa.
Miliaria profunda: This is the least common type of heat rash. It has high chances of recurrence and may take several weeks to heal. Miliaria profunda usually occurs in the dermis, which lies deeper in the skin. It typically occurs in adults and surfaces after a period of physical activity. This type of heat rash is characterized by large and tough, skin-colored boils. Since it prevents sweat from leaving the skin, it can also trigger symptoms of nausea and dizziness in the affected individuals.
Are you wondered what contributes to the development of such rashes in babies? Let’s find out.
What Causes Heat Rash In Babies?
As already mentioned, heat rash is a result of clogged skin pores that cannot expel sweat. Many factors can contribute to this. They include:
A hot and humid climate Wearing clothing that traps heat Use of thick lotions and creams Overheating of the body due to multiple layers of clothing
Since babies have underdeveloped skin pores, they are more likely to develop a heat rash. While heat rash usually eases away on its own, a few natural remedies can help speed up its healing without any side effects.
How To Treat Heat Rash In Babies Naturally
1. Cold Compress
A cold compress or ice pack You can do this 2-3 times a day. A cold compress can help in cooling and soothing the affected area. It relieves the symptoms of inflammation while also healing the rash faster.
2. Essential Oils
a. Tea Tree Oil
1 drop of tea tree oil 2-3 teaspoons of coconut oil
You can do this once daily until you notice an improvement in the symptoms. Tea tree oil exhibits antiseptic and anti-inflammatory activities (1). It can help in soothing the redness and discomfort associated with heat rash. Do not use tea tree oil on babies younger than 6 months. Also, never use this oil undiluted.
b. Chamomile Oil
1 drop of chamomile oil 2-3 teaspoons of coconut oil
You can do this once daily for best results. Like tea tree oil, chamomile oil also possesses anti-inflammatory properties (2). These properties can help to provide relief by soothing the symptoms associated with heat rash. Do not use this oil undiluted and on children below 6 months of age.
3. Cucumber
Sliced cucumber You can do this 2-3 times daily. Cucumber contains flavonoids and tannins that exhibit analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties (3). These properties may help in calming heat rash in babies.
4. Oatmeal
1 cup of powdered oatmeal Water
You can do this once daily. The anti-inflammatory nature of oatmeal plays a significant role in treating many skin disorders (4). It can also help soothe the heat rash and speed up its healing.
5. Fuller’s Earth
½ tablespoon of Fuller’s earth Water (as required)
You may do this once every 2 or 3 days. While there are no studies to back this claim, anecdotal evidence suggests that Fuller’s earth can help soothe heat rash in babies as well as adults.
6. Aloe Vera
Freshly extracted aloe vera gel You may do this once daily for best results. Aloe vera gel extracts exhibit anti-inflammatory activities that can help soothe the heat rash and improve its symptoms (5). In addition to these remedies, here are some useful tips that can help prevent the recurrence of heat rashes in your baby.
How To Prevent Heat Rash In Babies
Protect your baby and keep them away from the scorching sun. Keep your baby indoors and in air-conditioned rooms, especially during summers. Dress your little one in breathable and loose clothing, especially in summers. Wash areas like your baby’s neck, armpits, and groin with cool water. Pat these areas dry after washing. Check the temperature of your child’s skin every now and then. Apply a cold compress or give them a quick bath if you notice an increase in the temperature. Avoid using thick lotions and creams on your little one. Use a mild soap that doesn’t leave your child’s skin too dry.
When should I worry about baby heat rash? If your baby’s rash lasts for more than three days or is paired with an infection, fever, or swelling, you should consult a doctor immediately. What can be mistaken for heat rash? In children, eczema is commonly mistaken for heat rash due to their similar signs and symptoms. Does breast milk help heat rash? Breast milk may help soothe skin irritation associated with heat rashes. Is baby powder good for heat rash? It is not recommended to use baby powder if your child has heat rash as it can dry out the skin. Is Vaseline good for heat rash? Yes. Vaseline can moisturize the skin and soothe the irritation caused by heat rashes.
