Prickly Heat: What is it and How to Prevent it?

As the summer months approach, those of us with sensitive skin often dread the onset of unsightly hives and irritating rashes such as prickly heat and eczema. Understanding what prickly heat is and how to prevent it can make a significant difference in enjoying a comfortable, rash-free summer.

What is Prickly Heat?

Prickly heat, also known as heat rash or miliaria, occurs when sweat ducts become blocked, trapping sweat beneath the skin. This results in tiny, itchy red bumps or blisters, often accompanied by a prickling or stinging sensation. The condition is common in hot and humid weather and can affect anyone.

This uncomfortable condition is caused by sweat glands in the skin becoming blocked. This stops the sweat from escaping the body. Instead, it leaks into nearby skin, causing redness and rashes. Another common cause of blocked sweat glands is waterproof sunscreens. These sunscreens often contain ingredients such as mineral oils and silicone, which can block your pores. Applying these ingredients is similar to wrapping your skin in cling film and can aggravate prickly heat by reducing the amount of sweat that can escape.

Prevention Tips

1. Choose the Right Sunscreen

Did you know that simply switching to a non-waterproof, silicone-free sunscreen could reduce the irritating effects of prickly heat? Brands like Green People offer a range of sun creams ideal for preventing prickly heat and protecting sensitive skin. Their natural and organic sun creams are dermatologically tested and clinically proven to be kind to sensitive skin. They use natural plant waxes to make them water-repellent and refuse to use pore-clogging ingredients.

2. Wear Breathable Clothing

Opt for loose, lightweight, and breathable fabrics such as cotton and linen. These materials allow your skin to breathe and help reduce sweat buildup.

3. Stay Cool and Hydrated

Keep your body cool by staying in the shade, using fans, or air conditioning. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help regulate your body temperature and prevent excessive sweating.

4. Take Cool Showers

Cool showers can help reduce skin temperature and prevent sweat ducts from becoming blocked. Avoid hot showers as they can worsen the condition.

5. Avoid Heavy Exercise in Hot Weather

Try to schedule physical activities during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening. Overexertion in high temperatures can lead to excessive sweating and increase the risk of prickly heat.

6. Use Lightweight Bedding

During hot nights, use lightweight and breathable bedding materials to help prevent overheating and sweating while you sleep.

Managing Prickly Heat

If you do develop prickly heat, here are some tips to manage and soothe the symptoms:

1. Cool Compresses

Apply a cool, damp cloth to the affected areas to help reduce itching and irritation.

2. Calamine Lotion

Calamine lotion can provide relief from itching and help soothe the skin.

3. Oatmeal Baths

Taking a bath with colloidal oatmeal can help calm inflamed skin and relieve itchiness.

4. Avoid Further Irritation

Refrain from using heavy creams or lotions that can block pores. Instead, use lightweight, non-comedogenic products.

5. Keep the Skin Dry

Gently pat the skin dry after bathing and avoid vigorous rubbing, which can further irritate the skin.

6. Consult a Healthcare Professional

If the rash persists or becomes severely uncomfortable, consult a healthcare professional for advice and potential treatments.

Understanding prickly heat and taking proactive steps to prevent it can make your summer much more enjoyable. By choosing the right skincare products, wearing breathable clothing, and staying cool, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing this irritating condition. If you do experience prickly heat, following the management tips can help soothe your skin and get you back to enjoying the warm weather comfortably.

Recommended Products:

• Scent Free Sun Cream SPF30 – £21.00 (100ml) / £31.00 (200ml)
  
• Scent Free Facial Sun Cream SPF30 – £27.50 (50ml)
  
• Organic Children Sun Cream SPF30 – £29.00 (150ml)

By choosing the right products and being mindful of ingredients, you can enjoy the summer sun without the discomfort of prickly heat.

Available from www.greenpeople.co.uk