Home Remedy for Heat Bumps

In summer, the temperature rises, and simple activities like running, jogging, and some sports can lead to heat rashes and heat bumps on your back, chest, under the arms, and the legs---typically the upper thighs. These can look like bug bites, but it's merely your skin's reaction to heat and chafing, and a home remedy for heat bumps can deal with it.

Cool it Off

A simple ice pack can often do the trick as a home remedy for heat bumps. Put a few cubes in a plastic bag, seal it to prevent leakage, and then wrap a cloth around it. Place it on the heat bumps for between 5 to 10 minutes and then remove. Repeat it at four to six hour intervals until the redness fades. You can also cool off by just using a plain old cold shower or bath. Afterward, rather than using a towel to get dry, allow yourself to air dry, this will cut down on irritation to your skin.

Use Some Powders

There's baking soda, cornstarch and oatmeal; all three can help---in different ways---as a home remedy for heat bumps. Apply either baking soda or cornstarch to your skin after a cold shower or bath. They absorb the excess water on your skin that exacerbates the heat bumps. Baking soda and oatmeal can help give you relief in a warm bath. In fact, an oatmeal bath is used to treat chicken pox. Sprinkle two tablespoons to the bath water, stir until it's dissolved, and then soak in the water.

Lotions

Aloe vera is an ideal home remedy for heat bumps and rashes. Aloe helps to relieve swelling and itching of irritated skin, and it is beneficial for cooling and soothing the skin. Simply squeeze it from a cut leaf and apply to the affected area two to three times daily. Over time, this will heal the skin. Do not use commercial lotions; they are full of chemicals that can clog your pores and lead to still more heat bumps and rashes.

Avoid Chaffing

Wearing tight clothes during physical activity is often the first step in developing heat bumps or rash. Not only do such clothes rub your skin, but they hold in moisture, both of which are factors in causing the rash. To avoid both problems, wear clothes that are lightweight and loose-fitting. The reduction in chafing and allowing your sweat to evaporate will ease any heat bumps you have, and allow them to naturally diminish.