Do I need to use prickly heat powder if I have prickly heat?

Not necessarily

The main function of prickly heat powder is to absorb moisture and reduce skin friction, thereby alleviating the symptoms of prickly heat to a certain extent. However, we do not need to use it routinely.

Since prickly heat is caused by the inability of sweat to evaporate and be discharged normally in a high temperature and airtight environment, which in turn causes the sweat gland ducts to become blocked, if prickly heat powder is used, although it can temporarily absorb sweat, it may also block the openings of the sweat gland ducts and aggravate the condition.

In fact, more reasonable care and prevention measures should be taken to treat prickly heat, including:

Keep your skin dry: wear loose, breathable clothing, keep the environment ventilated, and avoid excessive sweating;

Clean the skin: Wash the skin with warm water and pat dry to keep the skin clean;

Avoid scratching: Heat rash may cause itching, so keep your hands to yourself, as scratching the skin will increase the risk of infection.

Use topical products as needed: If itching and discomfort are more obvious, calamine lotion can be used as needed, which is safer;

Improve environmental conditions: Try to avoid staying in a hot, humid environment for a long time. Use air conditioning or fans as needed.

In short, prickly heat powder may be used as an auxiliary measure, but it is not a mainstream treatment measure. What is more important is to adopt correct prevention and care methods to fundamentally reduce the occurrence of prickly heat.

Author: Tang Jiaoqing, MD, attending physician of dermatology

Review | Feng Jun, deputy chief physician of the Dermatology Department of Sinopharm Tongmei General Hospital