The news is full of it; we've all surely read it: July 2024 has gone down in German history as the hottest month since weather records began. Temperatures well above 30 degrees Celsius on far too many days, accompanied by oppressive humidity. The consequence – and the reason why we absolutely wanted to address this topic on the 48grams blog – is a significant increase in complaints of heat rash, especially on the face. A sustained cooling isn't expected until mid- to late September, so this problem remains highly relevant. 48grams is publishing tips here on how to prevent heat-related facial rashes from developing in the first place, or how to treat them if necessary.
Causes of heat rash
Miliaria, the medical term for heat rash, is not a sun allergy. Many people mistakenly believe this! The rash is not caused by a reaction of the skin to UV radiation! Miliaria develops due to a blockage of the sweat glands – because the sweat cannot evaporate properly and accumulates in the glands. This is also why the effects are clearly visible on the face. The skin there is particularly thin and more sensitive.
When the body suffers from the temperatures
We Northern Europeans are simply not used to the ever-increasing heat records; unlike the inhabitants of Spain, Italy, or Greece, our way of life isn't geared towards it. No siesta, few cooling courtyards, hardly any private air conditioning. The result: We sweat and sweat… in temperatures exceeding 30 degrees Celsius. Since all that sweat – as just mentioned – clogs the glands, small, itchy blisters appear on the skin. This can affect the entire body – especially since we also tend to wear tight-fitting clothing. On the face, however, cosmetic products further contribute to clogged pores. Therefore, the rash has an even greater chance of developing there.
Symptoms and variants
Yes, now it's going to get a bit unpleasant. But if you don't recognize the problem, you can't do anything about it! So: Pay attention! There are four different forms of heat rash, which are distinguished according to their severity:
1) Miliaria crystallina:
This is a mild form. It occurs when only the superficial sweat glands are blocked. The clear blisters (usually filled with milky fluid) are often only temporary; they burst easily.
2) Miliaria rubra:
This variant is more problematic, as red, itchy blisters form. This is the (also visually unappealing) result when the rash becomes slightly inflamed. Here, the blockage is deeper in the skin – and a bacterial infection has exacerbated it.
3) Miliaria pustulosa:
This variant is considered a severe form of miliaria rubra. In this bacterial infection, pus even forms in the middle layers of the skin, resulting from severe inflammation. It is essential to consult a doctor.
4) Miliaria profunda:
Fortunately, these are rarer because they are significantly more serious. Painful, nodular thickenings develop deep within the skin, in the dermis. These absolutely require medical treatment.
Prevention of heat rash
Let's start at the beginning: What can you do to prevent heat rash on your face? Even though it's often difficult, the most important measure is to keep your skin as cool and dry as possible.In other words: avoid direct sunlight, ideally always carry a small (battery-powered) fan in your handbag, and refrain from outdoor sports. Regularly cooling your face, for example by applying cool, damp cloths or spraying it with thermal water, is always helpful. All skincare products should be non-comedogenic (i.e., non-clogging), and ideally, cosmetics shouldn't be applied to the skin at all. This allows the tissue to "breathe" as much as possible.
Treatment of heat rash
Of course, despite all precautions, the worst-case scenario will still occur: heat rash is insidious. Then, quick action is required. The most important thing is to relieve symptoms and promote healing. If the skin is sufficiently cooled and dried, the rash often disappears on its own. Avoiding heat is, of course, essential. Additionally, cooling gels or... Use masks that contain aloe vera. This will relieve any itching and reduce inflammation.
Home remedies for heat rash
We did some research and asked around: There are indeed a number of home remedies that can combat (mild forms of) heat rash. They are readily available and easy to use:
1. Baking powder:
The baking soda must be mixed with a little liquid and applied to the skin. It has anti-inflammatory properties and regulates the skin's pH level.
2. Olive oil:
This natural oil is rich in fatty acids and antioxidants. It nourishes the skin and soothes itching at the same time.
3. Aloe Vera:
The soothing and moisturizing properties of aloe vera make it an ideal remedy for heat rash. Mallorca aloe, in particular, reduces redness and provides a pleasant cooling sensation to the skin.
4. Chamomile tea:
Chamomile has strong anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore, a facial bath with cold chamomile tea will inhibit inflammation and soothe the skin.
When does a doctor need to help?
We've already mentioned the different forms of miliaria. It should also be clear that there are aggressive versions that absolutely require medical attention. If the blisters become inflamed, painful, or show no improvement after several days, a visit to a dermatologist is essential. The doctor will prescribe creams or lotions containing cortisone or antibiotics. This will alleviate the inflammation and promote timely healing.
