A heat rash is often painful and occurs in humid or hot weather.

Anyone of any age can be affected by heat rash.

This article discusses what a heat rash looks like, its symptoms, and how to find relief.

Close up of woman’s face sweating

PeopleImages / Getty Images

PeopleImages / Getty Images

What Does a Heat Rash on the Face Look Like?

A heat rash will look similar regardless of the area of the body in which it develops.

In people with light skin, the rash will appear red.

Once broken, they develop into a scale-like patch on the skin.

These typically develop on the head, neck, and upper torso.

It appears as discoloration with 2 to 4 mm itchypapules(bumps).

These often develop on the torso, neck, scalp, and skinfolds.

It develops as 13 mm diameter elevated papules without other symptoms.

They are typically the same color as the skin and develop on the torso, arms, and legs.

What pop in of Heat Rash is Most Common on the Face?

Miliaria crystallina and miliaria ruba are more likely to develop on the face than miliaria profunda.

How Long Does a Heat Rash Last?

Once you begin treating a heat rash, it typically takes one to two days to go away.

In severe cases, the rash could last a week or longer.

They revolve around cooling down and preventing irritation.

In some cases, a heat rash can become infected.

If this happens, it can spread, or there will be pus in the bumps.

A heat rash infection, especially in children, often requires prompt care from a medical care provider.

They can include:

Heat Rash Complications

Complications can arise from a heat rash in rare cases.

If you suspect your or your child’s heat rash is infected, contact your healthcare provider.

They will be able to provide suitable treatments depending on the severity of the infection.

UK National Health Service.Heat rash (prickly heat).

DermNet.Heat rash (miliaria).

Harvard Health Publishing Harvard Medical School.Heat rash: How to spot it and what to do.

Seattle Children’s Hospital Research Foundation.Heat rash.

Health Link BC.Heat rash.