Prickly heat, as its name suggests, is a very itchy red skin rash, causing a prickling or burning feeling and occurs in people who are particularly sensitive to the sun. It is a common condition and may occur when you sweat a lot in hot or humid weather.
Dead skin cells and bacteria block the sweat glands and the skin becomes inflamed with a spotty rash that may blister. The rash develops most commonly on the backs of the knees, the waist, under the arms, under the breasts, on the inner thighs and anywhere where there is friction between the skin and clothing.
Babies and children are particularly prone to prickly heat because of their immature sweat glands, and the rash is most commonly found in the nappy area, on the neck or in the folds of the skin. Those who are overweight or sweat easily are also more likely to develop prickly heat.
If you develop prickly heat, you could try SOS cream which will help sooth the itching. If the rash is very itchy, try taking Aller-C which acts like an antihistamine and can help to stop the itching, and Serrapeptase for any inflammation.
To help prevent developing prickly heat avoid going out in the sun, but if you are outside try and keep in the shade and wear a natural sun screen if you cannot avoid the sun.
Wear loose cotton clothing to encourage evaporation of sweat and prevent further skin irritation and always wear a hat.
Keep as cool as possible, with air conditioning or a fan and take regular cool showers because this will help the sweat evaporate from the skin.