Prickly Heat
Prickly heat is a type of heat rash characterized by tiny bumps or even water blisters.
Causes
• Brought about by clogging of sweat glands, resulting into tiny bumps.
• The forehead (under caps or visors), body folds, the upper back and chest, and the arms are the most common locations.
• Most common when it is hot and humid.
Signs
• ‘Prickly’ sensation.
• The rash can look quite similar to one caused by infected hair follicles (folliculitis), there are no hair follicles in prickly heat bumps.
Prevention
• Take a bath everyday.
• Limit exposure to the sun.
• Always dries up sweat from the skin.
• Wear light, loose clothing.
Treatment
• Cleanse the skin gently.
• Apply corn starch or baking soda powder.
• If there is excessive itching or if the rash is infected, consult a physician.