Should I Worry About My Baby’s Heat Rash?

When you notice a heat rash in your baby, your alarm bells will start ringing. However, your baby’s heat rash is just a mild, temporary skin condition and you don’t have to be too worried about it.

Infant thermal rash is common in hot weather, humid climates, and often affects newborn babies, especially those under 1 year of age. Because sweat cannot escape, rashes or small sores form that mix easily with other skin conditions.

So should I be worried about a thermal rash?

While it’s good to do certain things to keep your baby feeling comfortable, it’s good to remember that  it’s not a serious illness, and it doesn’t lead to any other illnesses.

Baby Rash – What Causes It?

A thermal rash is a skin reaction caused by a malfunction of the baby’s sweat ducts. It prevents sweat from leaving the body through the baby’s skin and leads to the formation of small red or white pimples or ulcers.

It usually occurs in areas that tend to become sweaty : on the neck, chest, back, and so on. However, it can be observed in any area. Due to its appearance, some people assume it is due to poor hygiene.

Unlike other rashes, heat rash does not result in fever and tends to go away on its own without any treatment. It is also not contagious and usually leaves no marks or scars.

Risk factors

Babies just a few weeks old are more prone to heat rash, especially if they live in a hot and humid climate. It is also more common in babies with eczema or dry skin.

In general, risk factors include:

• Moderate or high fever
• Excess heat
• Skin bacterium (Staphylococcus)
• Use of powders and creams that clog pores

Symptoms of thermal rash in infants

The main symptom of a thermal rash is rash. The rash looks like small sores and it creates a rough feeling on the skin when you massage it.

It is most often seen in areas that contain more sweat pores, such as:

• On the skin folds
• On the forehead, eyelids and cheeks
• On his back
• In the crotch and thighs
• In the arms and below them

Since a thermal rash is not an inflammation, it does not result in a fever. But because it can be itchy, the baby may feel restless or demanding.

To rule out other problems, visit a pediatrician; they are able to determine by a rapid physical test what it is.

Prevent and treat your baby’s heat rash

The best way to prevent babies from getting a heat rash is to prevent them from sweating too much. Unfortunately, it can be difficult during the summer. So you may want to know how to keep your baby cool when it’s hot outside.

Here are some tips:

• Check your baby’s diaper often and change it as soon as you notice it is wet to keep heat and moisture out of the diaper for a long time.
• Cool the baby in a lukewarm bath, but do not use irritating soap.
• When you dry your baby, do not rub him too much with a towel or the irritation may get worse. Pat him dry.
• Dress your baby in light clothing made of breathable fabric or cotton.

• Keep your baby out of the sun and be careful when going out.
• Feel the baby’s skin several times a day to check for heat or sweating.
• Make a solution of water and baking soda and moisten it with either gauze or a soft cloth. Apply it to the damaged area.
• Do not wrap your baby in clothing, especially if it is warm outside.

How is a baby’s heat rash treated?

If your baby seems uncomfortable because of this or if he or she suffers from heat rash frequently, your doctor may recommend the use of cortisone cream. Other natural solutions include a chamomile bath or aloe vera.

In summary

Thermal rash is a mild illness and is not dangerous to the baby. But since its symptoms can be distracting, it’s good to know how to alleviate the discomfort.