What Is Prickly Heat?

Also known as heat rash, prickly heat often occurs during hot weather, most especially in areas of high humidity. These tiny bumps on the skin’s surface appear when sweat gets trapped under the skin due to dead skin cells blocking sweat ducts or pores. Usually, it appears on the shoulders, back, chest, and neck. Prickly heat causes a stinging, itching sensation.

Is Prickly Heat Bad For Your Child?

Babies and small kids are more prone to prickly heat because their sweat glands are still developing. They become uncomfortable while it lasts. Though it usually clears up on its own, once kids scratch it too much, they can break the skin as well as cause an infection thus making them need to see a doctor. For newborn, any rash requires immediate attention from a doctor.

Listed below are some of the effective home remedies for prickly heat.

Avoid The Sun

It is recommended during summer to stay indoors between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM, however, it is best to avoid even the hours outside this window if your child has prickly heat.

Air The Affected Skin

Areas on the skin that are covered by clothing are usually found to have a worse prickly heat. It always affects the upper body of the kids, that’s why let them wander around without shirt until the rashes disappear.

Use Cool Water

During summer, make sure to bathe your child in water that is cool, but not cold. The body cools faster and the rashes subside when bathing multiple times a day.

Apply Ice Cubes

For instant relief, make an “ice pouch” (an ice cube placed in a cloth) and gently press on the affected areas to cool it down and provide relief on the stinging feeling.

Stay In An Air-Conditioned Room

A good option to provide relief for prickly heat is by staying in an air-conditioned room. Let your child wear a shirt if he is likely to catch a cold.

Dry Your Skin Well After A Bath

It is important to dry skin properly with a soft towel after a bath. Avoid scrubbing vigorously. Just gently pat dry the affected areas.

Wear Natural, Breathable Fabrics

Dress your child appropriately and opt for fabrics like linen or cotton. Use soft cotton fabric for babies.

Grind Neem Leaves

Neem leaves are known to treat a wide variety of skin conditions – just like prickly heat. Grind neem leaves to a paste and apply on the affected skin for 5 minutes and then wipe it off.

Make Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe Vera is perfect for prickly heat due to its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. Apply the aloe vera gel on the affected area for 20 minutes and then, wipe it off with a soft towel.

Use Cucumbers

Aside from being great for summer, cucumbers have cooling effects on the skin as well. You can place thin slices or grind cucumbers on the skin to cool it.

Generally, you must avoid oil-based lotions and creams during summer. Stop carrying your baby all day long as your body heat can aggravate his prickly heat. Lastly, make sure that your kids are properly hydrated and that they eat nutritious and healthy foods during summer. By following these simple tactics you’ll be able to get rid of your child’s prickly heat and make him happy.