Prickly Heat, Sweat Rash and Monsoon Skin Care in India
Prickly heat comes from blocked sweat ducts and settles when skin is kept cool and dry. In the monsoon, damp skin folds also invite fungal rashes.
Condition guide
Prickly heat (miliaria)
Also known as Ghamoriyan, Ghamori, Heat rash, Miliaria, Sweat rash.
In short
Prickly heat, or miliaria, happens when sweat ducts get blocked and sweat leaks into the skin, causing tiny itchy or prickly bumps. It is very common in Indian summers and the humid monsoon, especially in babies and people who sweat a lot, and it usually settles within days once the skin is kept cool and dry. Sweat and dampness can also cause fold rashes and fungal infections, which look similar but need different treatment.
Typical signs
- Clusters of tiny red bumps that sting, itch or prickle
- Tiny clear, fluid filled spots like water droplets, common in newborns
- Bumps on the neck, chest, back, skin folds or areas covered by tight clothing
- A rash that is worse in heat and humidity and settles in cool conditions
When to see a dermatologist
- The rash does not improve after a few days of cooling and keeping the skin dry
- You see pus, increasing pain or swelling, or have a fever
- You have itchy rings or patches that keep spreading or returning
- You have used steroid or mixed creams and the rash has become worse or widespread
- A baby or child has a rash with fever or seems unwell
Signs vary from person to person and several skin conditions look alike. Only an examination can confirm a diagnosis.
Read the guides
Full, referenced articles on prickly heat (miliaria) written for Indian skin, with answers to common questions.
Sunscreen Myths in India: Dark Skin, Indoors and Vitamin D
Brown skin still needs sunscreen, UVA passes through windows, clouds let most UV through, and real life sunscreen use has not been shown to cause low vitamin D.
Worried about prickly heat (miliaria)?
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This page is a short summary for general education and does not replace a consultation with a qualified dermatologist. Do not start, stop or change any medicine based on this page. Read the full medical disclaimer.