How to avoid and treat heat rash and sun poisoning, according to skin care experts - NBC News

What the report says

NBC News’ Select section published a consumer health guide on recognizing, preventing and managing heat rash and severe sun-related illness, drawing on interviews with dermatologists and including product recommendations. The article emphasizes that sunscreen remains important, but that people spending time outdoors should also watch for conditions beyond ordinary sunburn, including heat rash and what is commonly called sun poisoning.

According to the dermatologists cited by NBC, heat rash, medically known as miliaria, occurs when sweat ducts get blocked and sweat becomes trapped beneath the skin. Caren Campbell, a board-certified dermatologist in San Francisco, described it as small red bumps or clear blisters that can feel itchy or prickly, often appearing on the neck, chest, arms or skin folds. NBC reported that heat rash is driven by heat, humidity, sweating and tight clothing, and can happen even without direct sun exposure.

The guide says prevention centers on staying cool and dry, wearing breathable or moisture-wicking clothing, avoiding heavy creams that may block sweat ducts, and limiting prolonged heat exposure. For symptoms, NBC cited expert advice that gentle cleansing and topical hydrocortisone may help with irritation or itching. Jennifer Mancuso, a pediatric dermatologist at the University of Michigan, noted that infants and toddlers can be prone to heat rash and may benefit from cool, breathable clothing and fragrance-free, sensitive-skin moisturizers when appropriate.

NBC also explained that “sun poisoning” is not a formal medical diagnosis but is generally used for a severe sunburn accompanied by symptoms such as fever, chills, blistering, nausea, dizziness or dehydration. The article recommends SPF 30 or higher, reapplication every two hours, avoiding the strongest midday sun, hydration, cool compresses and pain relief for typical burns. It advises seeking medical care when severe symptoms appear, especially because heat exhaustion or heat stroke can occur alongside sun injury.