Although we in the UK haven’t been blessed with much sunshine so far this summer, for those who suffer with prickly heat this may be something of a relief. It is very common condition, affecting thousands of people. In fact, in a recent survey we conducted, we found that 53% of people know someone with prickly heat, which is formally known as miliaria.

Commonly appearing on the face, torso, arms and thighs, it is a red rash with small bumps that itch or sting quite intensely. It is caused by sweat that cannot escape the skin because the sweat glands are blocked. The sweat irritates the skin around the area where it is trapped, leading to the formation of the prickly rash.

There can be a number of reasons for prickly heat. Sometimes it is caused by excessive sweating, where simply too much sweat is formed so it cannot escape the skin quickly enough. However in most people the cause is pores that are blocked for other reasons, one of the most common of which may be the sun cream being used.

Sun lotions and prickly heat

Waterproof sun creams based on mineral oils and silicone can be a problem because they cover the skin just like cling-film. This waterproof barrier makes it difficult for sweat to escape the body through the pores, leading to the prickly heat reaction.

Waterproof sun creams based on mineral oils and silicone can be a problem because they cover the skin just like cling-film would. This waterproof barrier makes it difficult for sweat to escape the body through the pores, leading to the prickly heat reaction.

Other ways to help reduce prickly heat include wearing loose, cotton clothing and avoiding the chance of overheating by staying in the shade, avoiding exercise in the heat and taking regular cool showers.

Green People offers a range of natural sun lotions suitable for prickly heat that allow the pores to breathe and are gentle on sensitive skin.

  

Alexandra

For as long as I can remember I have held a passion for nature and the countryside. I like to see the things I love being taken care of – from the bees to trees – so I try to live ethically and organically wherever possible. I was delighted to be given the opportunity to join the organic skin care company Green People (www.greenpeople.co.uk), amazingly based a mere few miles from me in rural Sussex, where I write about products that are produced with the environment and ethics in mind at every step. Since joining, I’ve learnt so much about the effects of commonplace chemicals on the skin and body and every day I am reminded by our fabulous customers how much difference using ‘no nasties’ products can make to those with sensitive skin. I am now on a mission to spread the word about the beauty of going natural and organic!

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