Ease the Wildfire Rash

Have you ever felt a prickly sensation after a brisk run or a bike ride? This sensation of “prickly heat” is a heat rash, and your Knoxville Dermatology team knows just how to ease those symptoms.

Also known as summer rash or wildfire rash, heat rash happens when your sweat gets pushed or leaks into the deeper layers of your epidermis. This causes small red bumps and the itchy, prickly feeling. Once you feel that, remove a few layers or loosen your clothing to let your skin breath. Sometimes wearing clothing that’s too thick or too tight can cause your skin to block the sweat glands.

It’s also important to allow your body to cool down. Find a shady spot to rest while you drink some water, but do not towel dry your skin because this may cause further irritation. If your heat rash is particularly prickly, calamine lotion or aloe vera ointments help alleviate the symptoms. You should always consult a doctor before applying any other ointment to your skin. Rash irritation can be easily addressed, and these tips will help bring comfort so you can get back outside and enjoy the summer.

If you have any questions about heat rash or about changes in your skin, please call us today at 865-690-9467. Skin health is an important part of total body wellness. Schedule an appointment with one of our board certified physicians to get your skin the care it needs so it can reach its fullest, healthiest potential.