Dr Tony Bewley on heat rash
'Prickly heat [or Polymorphic Light Eruption] tends to be made worse by a part of the sun's rays called UVA. UVA can get through glass and clouds, so you can get a sun-related rash even on cloudy days. Try using a high-factor sun block with an SPF over 25, but together with a UVA block. The UVA block has a different numbering system, and "posh" is not always best.
Five-star sun block is the one to go for. Better than that, sit in the shade or wear a nice wide-brimmed hat and lots of trendy clothes. I'm all for people having a lovely time in the sunshine. We just need to protect our skin.'
Dr Tony Bewley, Consultant Dermatologist at Barts Hospital, London
More help and advice
- More facts and help on skin conditions
- Get the facts about prickly heat/heat rash
- What you need in your medicine cabinet
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Joanna, 7 months [Offensive? Unsuitable? Report this comment.]
After I'd read prickly heat was caused by blocked pores, I started exfoliating much more regularly, and it's really helped. If I feel it starting when I'm exercising and getting hot, I just make sure I give myself a thorough scrub in the shower after.