How to Treat a Heat Rash on the Face in Babies & Adults

A heat rash, otherwise known as prickly heat or miliaria, occurs when sweat gets trapped in the skin, causing inflammation. It can develop anywhere on the body, but on the face, it typically develops due to blocked sweat glands from wearing a face covering, such as a mask.

A heat rash is often painful and occurs in humid or hot weather. Anyone of any age can be affected by heat rash.

This article discusses what a heat rash looks like, its symptoms, and how to find relief.

What Does a Heat Rash on the Face Look Like?

A heat rash will look similar regardless of the area of the body in which it develops. When it’s on the face, it will likely be discolored and have raised spots that may or may not be filled with fluid.

In people with light skin, the rash will appear red. In those with darker skin tones, the spots may appear white or gray, and the rash will be less visible.

There are three types of heat rashes, each categorized by severity based on how deep in the skin the trapped sweat is. They include:  

Miliaria Crystallina

Miliaria crystallina is a mild form of heat rash that occurs when the sweat ducts nearest the skin’s surface are obstructed or blocked.

It presents as 1–2 millimeters (mm) superficial clear blisters that are easily broken and could look like beads of sweat. Once broken, they develop into a scale-like patch on the skin. These typically develop on the head, neck, and upper torso.

Miliaria Ruba

Miliaria ruba is the most common heat rash and often develops in people who have recently moved to tropical climates. It appears as discoloration with 2 to 4 mm itchy papules (bumps). These often develop on the torso, neck, scalp, and skinfolds.

Miliaria Profunda

Miliaria profunda is the rarest and most severe type and is typically only found in adult males. It develops as 1–3 mm diameter elevated papules without other symptoms. They are typically the same color as the skin and develop on the torso, arms, and legs.

How Long Does a Heat Rash Last?

 Once you begin treating a heat rash, it typically takes one to two days to go away.

In severe cases, the rash could last a week or longer.

How to Find Relief From a Heat Rash on the Face

You can find relief from a heat rash on the face in various ways. They revolve around cooling down and preventing irritation.

Babies

If your baby has a heat rash on their face, you can help reduce irritation and discomfort by:

• Cooling off the skin using a cool and wet washcloth for up to 10 minutes before letting the skin air dry
• Dressing them in as little layers as possible
• Lowering the temperature within the home to provide a cool environment
• Using a fan for sleeping
• Using baby-approved over-the-counter creams for itching or calamine lotion

Adults

Adults can find relief from a heat rash by:

• Using a fan or air conditioner and staying in cool areas while the rash heals
• Taking a cool shower and completely drying off the skin afterwards
• Applying a cool compress to the area of the face that’s affected by the rash
• Avoiding wearing tight-fitting clothes made of synthetic materials that trap heat
• Using over-the-counter anti-itch creams or calamine lotion to curb itchiness while the rash heals

Other Heat Rash Symptoms

Aside from the rash and itchiness, other symptoms may be present if you have a heat rash on the face. They can include:

How to Prevent a Heat Rash

There are ways to prevent heat rash from developing in the future. They are typically the same for adults and children and can include:

• Dressing yourself or your child or infant in as few clothes as possible in hot weather
• Choosing light, loose-fitting clothing made of cotton or other breathable materials
• Keeping the skin cool and dry at all times
• Staying in cool and well-ventilated areas as much as possible 

When to Contact a Healthcare Provider

A heat rash can generally be treated at home and isn’t always a cause for concern. In some cases, however, seeing a healthcare provider is crucial, as is the case if you suspect an infection has developed. You should see a healthcare provider for a heat rash if:

• It doesn’t go away or improve after a week of at-home treatments.
• It becomes more and more painful.
• The itchiness intensifies over time.
• You’re generally worried about your baby’s heat rash, even in the absence of typical signs of infection.