My baby's back had these rough, dry, tiny bumpy, reddish, sandpaper-y skin during winter and I initially didn't realize it was heat rash. I though this condition only happens in summer.
Heat rash, also called Prickly heat or Miliaria, commonly occurs in hot, humid conditions. Often associated with summer, wearing too many layers in winter could lead to heat rash too. It is very common among infants. People who are active, fat people, sweaty people, newborns in incubators, and bedridden patients with fever are also prone to heat rash.
In a nutshell, heat rash is a condition where skin sting or feel prickly due to overheating. It begins with excessive perspiration, and the ducts from the skin's sweat glands get blocked. This causes the sweat to leak into the surrounding tissue, causing irritation and redness. It usually occurs on covered parts of the body or on skin folds; such as the back, abdomen, neck, upper chest, groin or armpits. Once skin is cooled, it usually gets better.
HEAT RASH RELIEF
For quick relief, keep skin cool and dry. Then massage Bebebugs on the area. It quickly calms itch and redness, and soften skin. If skin feels very rough and dry, it's best to layer Bebebalm over Bebebugs for faster relief. Reapply whenever necessary. Heat rash will be gone in no time. Proper skin management with Bebebalm or Bebebugs on skin also prevents or lessens the occurence of prickly heat.
HEAT RASH PREVENTION
To prevent heat rash, avoid situations that lead to excessive perspiration.
Keep skin cool and dry it thoroughly.
Drink plenty of water to keep the body cool and hydrated.
If the weather is hot or humid, cool down with cool showers, air conditioner or fan.
Wear loose fitting clothes.
In winter, don't overlayer with clothes; or lower the thermostat to keep you or baby from overheating.
Once skin is cool and dry, air dry if possible.
Avoid strenuous exercise when it gets too warm.
SEE A DOCTOR IF
The rash is severe or painful or does not go away on its own within a few days.
You develop an infection in an area where you recently had heat rash.
You have a fever or any other signs of illness.
The rash is bright red or has streaks.
The rash starts after you have been taking an antibiotic or new medication.