Sweat rash

Sweat rashes are a very common condition and can occur at any time. The natural yeast on your skin is called candida and causes irritation when your skin’s natural balance is altered. This can happen when sweat from your glandsOpens in a new window doesn’t evaporate from your skin completely.

When this happens, your skin can become itchy and irritable, with a red rash, a burning sensation, or broken skin. Prickly heat, exercise, excessive sweating, changes in skin or body care products, synthetic fabrics and tight clothes can all aggravate an unpleasant sweat rash.

Some people have sensitive skin that reacts to the synthetic fragrances or perfume in some products. Or they may be allergic to other ingredients like alcohol and aluminium salts, which may result in a sweat rash.

Sweat rash tends to happen in places where skin chafes, such as the armpits, the backs of the knees, between the legs, the groin, and between and under the breasts. It can also happen where clothes rub against places where sweat is.

Most types of sweat rash will clear up naturally. However, if you are sensitive to perfume or fragrance, or have a history of eczema, then it is a good idea to try a fragrance-free antiperspirant or deodorant to stop sweatingOpens in a new window. You could also try using an emollient or moisturiser alongside your antiperspirant or deodorant.

Making a few changes to your routine can also help. Read these tips to learn how to prevent sweat rashes:

• When exercising, wear loose-fitting clothes and choose fabrics that draw sweat away from your skin, like cotton and linen.
• In hot weather, if your skin gets irritable, it is important to stay hydrated and take cooler showers and baths.
• If a new skincare product starts to irritate your skin, stop using it.
• If a sweat rash develops, wear lightweight clothing made from natural fabrics like cotton and avoid synthetic fibres.

Antiperspirants containing aluminium salts can stop your sweat, which can help prevent sweat rash, but they can also irritate your skin. If this happens, you may want to use an emollient cream or moisturiser with your antiperspirant, or consider natural, sensitive skin or aluminium-free products – available for men or women.
If you’re worried about a rash, always speak to your doctor or healthcare professional.

Alternatively, you can make use of a protective antiperspirant deodorant that will offer you 48-hour protection and will also assist in the control of excessive sweating and odour.

FAQs

Sweat rashes are generally not serious and resolve on their own. However, if left untreated, they can potentially lead to secondary bacterial or fungal infections. If the rash is persistent, severe, or accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, it's important to seek medical advice.

Sweat rashes are typically associated with hot, humid conditions and physical activity. They often appear as small, itchy red bumps and usually occur in areas where the skin rubs together. However, many skin conditions can look similar, and if you're unsure, it's best to consult a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis.

While there's no direct evidence that diet can cause sweat rash, eating certain foods might make you sweat more, which could potentially exacerbate the condition. Spicy foods, alcohol, and caffeine, for example, can stimulate the sweat glands.

Individuals who live in hot, humid climates, those who exercise intensely, and those who are overweight or obese may be more prone to developing sweat rash, as these factors can lead to increased sweating. Additionally, individuals with certain medical conditions or who are taking specific medications that cause excessive sweating may also be more likely to develop sweat rash.