The great Indian summer is here and that means the scorching heat is here to stay! And prickly heat is the most common skin condition we see in children and adults. Also known as Miliaria in medical terms, prickly heat is often characterized by tiny round red bumps with tingling and prickly sensations. Prickly heat causes no long-term damage but can burn, itch and make your child uncomfortable. The hot and humid climate is the main cause of prickly heat as it leads to excessive sweating that blocks the sweat gland and when they burst open it causes itching and irritation.
How do we get rid of prickly heat?
Prickly heat often goes away as the weather conditions improve, but it is imperative that you keep your body cool by taking cold showers, wearing loose cotton clothes and keeping yourself well hydrated.
There are tons of over-the-counter products available in the market that may give you temporary relief. But, prickly heat can be won over by these simple home remedies our grandmoms have suggested and practised.
Ice Cubes
Image Source: www.sciencing.com
The essential thing in summer to steer clear of prickly heat is cold compress that works wonders in treating it effectively. Wrap a few ice cubes in a napkin and dab the affected area with it. Repeat 3-4 times a day for a week to see visible results.
Aloe Vera Gel
Image Source: www.india.com
Aloe vera gel is a go-to solution for skin care, because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help relieve prickly heat. Scoop out aloe vera gel directly from the plant or buy any packaged aloe vera gel (available in all leading brands). Gently apply it to the affected area twice a day for a week to sooth the irritated skin.
Scroll down to see the rest of the list and how they help you to stay cool this summer.
Sandalwood Paste
Image Source: www.thehealthsite.com
Sandalwood paste has got a great cooling effect on the skin. Mix together the sandalwood powder and rose water to make a smooth paste. Apply this paste on the affected area and leave it on until it dries. Rinse it off with cold water. Repeat this remedy twice a day for a week.
Neem Leaves
Image Source: www.healthyinstanttips.com
This is another age-old recipe that we have witnessed as kids when we grew up. Crush the neem leaves with some water to make a coarse paste. Apply this paste to the affected area and leave it for 10 minutes and rinse it off with cold water.
Fuller’s Earth or Multani Mitti
Image Source: www.indiafashionblogger.com
Medicinal properties of fuller’s earth are widely known in treating many skin problems. Mix Multani mitti with rose water to make a thick paste. Allow it to dry and rinse it off with cold water. Repeat this treatment once daily for a week.
Oatmeal Bath
Image Source: www.theholisticingredient.com
Oatmeal bath is also found to be effective in treating prickly heat. Mix finely ground oatmeal and cold milk to make a thin paste. Apply this paste over the affected area. Gently exfoliate the area with your hands. This soothes the skin and gives it a relief from the itching.
Baking Soda
Image Source: www.doctoroz.com
Mix baking soda and water to make a thick paste. Apply this paste all over the affected area and leave it on for 10 minutes. Gently wipe the paste with a wet cloth. Baking soda helps relieve itching and inflammation by gently exfoliating the skin and removing dirt and impurities.
Cucumber Slices
Image Source: 885thejewel.com
Applying cucumber slice on the affected area instantly is known to soothe the skin and give instant relief. Cut the cucumber into thin slices and refrigerate them for 10 minutes. Remove and place it on the affected area. Repeat this process once daily for visible results.
Is there any other home remedy that you have tried and has worked well for you and the kids to keep prickly heat at bay? Do share it with us in the comments below. We would love to hear from you!
Janani S Koushik
Mansi Zaveri
KSP Promotions
Rushita Sheth
