prickly heat

Antihistamines?

I took one every day of my holiday

Ask your pharmacist for Chlorphenamine.

I had this a couple of weeks ago, thought it was a reaction to a new IV drug treatment which can cause hives but evidently it was just heat rash. The tablets were inexpensive and worked quickly but did make me a little drowsy.

Eurax cream, which is crotamiton, relives the itching and is a fall back if you need to drive or operate machinery so can't take anything that would makes you drowsy.

Obviously, check for any contraindications with any other meds you take.

You can buy some 1% hydrocortisone cream which will help. Boots sell it by the name of Dermacare.

You're best to use a plain moisturiser first, then apply the hydrocortisone cream very sparingly. (The leaflet in the box will explain how much).

This was advice from a dermatologist years ago, it creates a pathway so the hydrocortisone is better absorbed rather than sitting on the skin surface.

You can use it for up to 7 days then take a break for four days.

Thank You for your replies

Make sure to wash with warm water not cold and if poss use a flannel or similar for gentle exfoliation.
Pat dry carefully and apply cooling gel.
That's what I'd do.
Good luck.

Heat rash can be annoying because it's not always about direct sun exposure. Sometimes, it is usually caused by sweat getting trapped in the skin, especially in hot, humid weather that we're facing. Even when you do everything right, you can still get a rash if your body isn't used to the climate.

I think if you keep the area as cool and dry as possible, or wear loose, breathable clothing, and avoid anything that might further irritate the skin, it should settle. If it's not improving after a few days, or it's getting worse, you should see a healthcare professional, cause several different skin conditions can look similar.

Hopefully it's just heat rash and clears up quickly. Spain is wonderful... except when it decides to leave you with an unwanted souvenir!