Infants develop heat rash, also known as "prickly heat," when the sweat glands are blocked. This normally happens during humid or hot weather, making the baby uncomfortable. Babies have smaller skin pores than adults, which makes it harder for the pores to release the sweat. As this happens, little red bumps -- and possibly small blisters -- form on the skin. The baby's skin begins to itch and burn, making the baby irritable and uncomfortable.
Step 1
Dress your baby in light-weight cotton clothing. The feel of the cloth should not be abrasive, because this will irritate the rash on her skin. Cotton absorbs moisture, such as her sweat.
Step 2
Place a small, oscillating fan in the baby's room. Place it far enough away from his crib that he gets only a gentle breeze that helps cool him down.
Step 3
Wet clean washcloths, wring them out and put them on the areas of skin affected by the heat rash.
Step 4
Put lukewarm water into the baby's tub and add 2 tsp. baking soda per gallon. Put the baby in the baking soda bath and pour water over the areas of her body affected by the rash.
Step 5
Allow the baby's skin to air-dry instead of rubbing him dry with a towel.
Step 6
Sprinkle a small dusting of cornstarch on the creases of your baby's skin. This may help prevent heat rash from forming.
Tips and Warnings
- If your baby has heat rash breakouts in her diaper area, avoid putting plastic pants or diaper liners on her. These hold in moisture from sweat and urine, making the rash worse. Trim the baby's fingernails so she doesn't scratch herself.
- Do not use talcum powder on your baby's skin. Talcum is dangerous for the baby to breathe.
Things You'll Need
- Light-weight cotton clothes
- Fan
- Cool, wet washcloths
- Baking soda bath
- Cornstarch
