Heat rash

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Treatments and drugs

By Mayo Clinic staff

The best treatment for any form of heat rash is to reduce sweating by staying in air-conditioned buildings or, when that's not possible, using fans to circulate the air, wearing lightweight clothing made of fabrics that "breathe" and limiting physical activity. Once skin is cool, heat rash tends to clear quickly.

Mild heat rash doesn't require any other treatment, but more severe forms may need topical therapies to relieve discomfort and prevent complications. Topical treatments may include:

  • Calamine lotion to soothe itching
  • Anhydrous lanolin, which may help prevent duct blockage and stop new lesions from forming
  • Topical steroids in the most serious cases

Some anecdotal evidence supports the use of oral vitamin C supplements to help relieve heat rash.

DS01058

Jan. 18, 2008

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