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When to Worry About Heat Rash

June 12, 2025

From backyard BBQs to sweaty workouts, warm weather can do a number on your skin. Enter: heat rash.

We asked Syed Hussain, MD, medical director at Hartford HealthCare Urgent Care, to explain what it is, how to treat it and when it’s time to see a doctor.

Here’s how to tell it’s a heat rash.

Does your skin seem to break out every time the weather warms up?

“If your skin gets tiny red bumps that feel like needles or pins, especially in hot weather, it’s likely a heat rash,” says Dr. Hussain.

Also known as “prickly heat,” this is caused by blocked sweat glands and an inflammatory reaction under the skin.

The result? Small, raised spots, usually 2 to 4 millimeters wide and sometimes filled with fluid, that can be itchy or sting.

> Related: Your Summertime Guide to Preventing and Detecting Skin Cancer

Can I treat heat rash at home?

Most of the time, yes.

“The key is to keep your skin cool and dry,” Dr. Hussain says. That means wearing loose cotton clothing, using lightweight bedding, taking cool showers or baths and staying well-hydrated.

“If the rash doesn’t improve or gets worse, you can try an over-the-counter antihistamine or hydrocortisone cream,” he adds. “And if that doesn’t help, your local urgent care is your next best bet.”

In addition to keeping cool, Dr. Hussain recommends drinking plenty of fluids and avoiding tight or dark clothing that traps heat.

“Hydration is really important. And lighter fabrics and colors will help your skin breathe and stay calm.”

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Keep the heat rash away this summer.

Staying one step ahead of heat rash is easier than you think — and it all starts with keeping cool.

“If you know you’ll be in the heat, dress in breathable clothes and take breaks to cool off,” Dr. Hussain says. “Prevention is always easier than treatment.”