Heat Rash in Children: Care Instructions

Heat rash (also called prickly heat rash) is a rash of red or pink dots. The skin around the dots may look red. In darker skin it may look purplish. The rash is most often found on body areas covered by clothing. The rash can form when the sweat ducts become blocked, trapping sweat under the skin. This often leads to discomfort and itching.

Heat rash is most common in babies and young children. It can happen when children are dressed too warmly, especially in very hot weather. Dress your child as you would dress yourself for comfort.

Heat rash often appears on the neck or trunk but can be in other areas. The rash can be irritated by clothing or scratching. In rare cases, the skin can get infected.

Most heat rashes heal on their own.

• Start by removing or loosening your child's clothing. Move your child to a cool, shady spot.
• Let the skin air-dry instead of using towels.
• Avoid ointments or other lotions. They can irritate the skin.

• Dress your child in as few clothes as possible during hot weather.
• Keep your child's skin cool and dry.
• Keep your child's sleeping area cool.