Sweat rashes: what are the most effective treatments?

How to get rid of heat rash bumps?

Generally benign and harmless, heat rash—also called miliaria—can nonetheless be bothersome due to the itching it causes and its unsightly appearance. What strategies can you adopt to eliminate it quickly? In this article, discover all our advice for getting rid of heat rash.

Published on May 31, 2022, updated on August 6, 2025, by Maylis, Chemical Engineer — 7 min of reading

Sweat rash: what is it?

The heat rash, sometimes called sweat rash, refers to a common benign skin condition. Noncontagious, it appears following theobstruction of the sweat ducts, the tiny channels through which sweat is normally released onto the skin’s surface. When these ducts become obstructed—due to intense heat, high humidity, or repeated friction—sweat cannot flow properly and accumulates beneath the epidermis. This results in small, translucent vesicles resembling water droplets, or red papules. This phenomenon is also promoted by the presence of bacteria such asStaphylococcus epidermidis, which secrete substances that can further clog the pores.

Heat rash can occur on any area of the body but most often affects regions where perspiration is abundant or poorly evacuated, such as the forehead, neck, back, torso, hands, feet, and skin folds like the armpits or groin. The infants are particularly vulnerable to heat rash due to the immaturity of their sweat glands.

Heat rash lesions generally resolve spontaneously within 24 to 48 hours.

What effective tips are there for eliminating heat rash bumps?

Although heat rash lesions typically resolve on their own, it is possible to accelerate their resolution and relieve the accompanying itching.

Treatments for sweat-related pimples primarily involve simple measures designed to limit occlusion, reduce body heat, and soothe skin inflammation.

Tip #1: Prioritize reducing heat and humidity.

The primary strategy for combating heat rash is to eliminate triggering factors : heat, humidity, friction, and skin occlusion. To that end, it is recommended to wear loose, lightweight cotton clothing, remain in a cool, well-ventilated environment—using an air conditioner or even just a fan—take cool or lukewarm showers, and limit strenuous physical activity during hot weather. These measures not only help prevent the emergence of new heat rash but also facilitate the natural elimination of sweat trapped beneath the skin.

Tip #2: Apply aloe vera.

Aloe vera is a natural ingredient recognized for its soothing, anti-inflammatory, and moisturizing properties. Frequently used for sunburn relief, aloe vera can also be an effective remedy for heat rash in both adults and children. A study conducted in 2024 with 32 infants aged 0 to 12 months presenting with heat rash evaluated the effects of topically applied aloe vera gel. The infants were divided into two groups: one group received the aloe vera application, while the other received no specific treatment. The results demonstrated a significant improvement in symptoms in the treated group after just a few days: 68.8% of the infants showed a clear reduction in itching, unlike those in the control group. Statistical analysis also confirmed that aloe vera promoted faster lesion healing without any side effects.

Aloe vera gel thus appears to be a promising treatment for heat rash in adults as well as infants.

Tip #3: Use a soothing cream.

One often wonders what to apply to heat rash. Several types of over-the-counter products are available in pharmacies to soothe heat rash, such as lotions, powders, gels, or creams that combine various active ingredients. Some contain cleansing agents, which help unclog pores and promote sweat excretion. Others contain antimicrobials, such as zinc, capable of limiting the proliferation of bacteria such as Staphylococcus epidermidis, sometimes implicated in the blockage of sweat ducts. The products may also include soothing and antipruritic agents such as menthol, chamomile, or aloe vera to alleviate itching. In certain cases, anti-inflammatory agents, notably hydrocortisone, are added, even though these actives are more commonly found in medications. Finally, absorbent powders made from talc or starch can be used to limit moisture in skin folds.

Note : In cases of severe itching, especially in adults, certain oral antihistamines may be used occasionally. Although they do not directly address the underlying cause of heat rash, they can help relieve discomfort by modulating the body’s histamine response. Their use should, however, remain exceptional and be undertaken under medical supervision.

Certain natural substances can also be applied topically as pastes or compresses to soothe skin irritations, although their effectiveness against heat rash has not yet been demonstrated in clinical trials. However, their anti-inflammatory properties are well documented in the scientific literature.

Natural ingredient	Mechanism of action
Turmeric	Inhibits the production of prostaglandins and blocks the synthesis of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1α, IL-6, and TNF-α.
Oats	Reduces the expression of several pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1, IL-6, IL-10, IL-12, TNF-α) and inhibits the COX enzyme involved in the inflammatory cascade.
Clay	Forms a semi-permeable barrier capable of adsorbing certain pro-inflammatory cytokines (notably TNF-α and IL-1β), reducing their availability in the inflamed area.
Honey	Its phenolic compounds and flavonoids inhibit the activity of COX-2 and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), two enzymes involved in the inflammatory response.
Sodium bicarbonate	Although its anti-inflammatory properties are less well characterized, its alkalizing effect could help soothe irritations by neutralizing local acidity.

Mechanisms of action of certain natural ingredients used to soothe skin irritations and heat rash.

In cases of fever, purulent lesions, or if heat rash lesions persist for more than a few days despite appropriate care, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional.

This is particularly true for infants, who are highly susceptible to heat rash since their bodies are not yet able to properly regulate their temperature. If you have the slightest doubt, it is best to consult a pediatrician promptly or ask your pharmacist for advice. This will help reassure you and ensure that it is not another skin condition.