How to prevent heat rash and heatstroke in babies and children
The arrival of warmer weather can be challenging for toddlers, who are more susceptible to the discomforts associated with high temperatures and humidity, such as heat rash and heatstroke. Discover our best tips for preventing them so you can enjoy a safe summer with your family.
Heat Rash
A heat rash is a skin rash caused by high ambient temperature and humidity, whether from the outside temperature or clothing that is too warm for the child. It is usually harmless and non-contagious (except in the rare case of a bacterial infection) and lasts about 1 to 3 days. It clears up without treatment once the child cools down.
While children of all ages and adults can get heat rash, this condition affects up to 40% of newborns, primarily those between 1 and 3 weeks old.
How to Treat and Prevent Heat Rash
- Wash the skin with cool water and a gentle body wash, and dry thoroughly to remove all traces of moisture.
- Apply cool compresses to the rash.
- Give your child an oral antihistamine solution to relieve itching (your pharmacist can advise you based on the child's age).
- Keep your child in a diaper or loose-fitting, light clothing until the rash disappears.
- Do not overdress your child while sleeping.
- Maintain a room temperature of around 20°C (68°F).
- Do NOT apply calamine cream, ointment, or lotion to heat rash.
- Stay indoors during periods of extreme heat and humidity.
Heatstroke
Did you know that toddlers are more susceptible to heatstroke than older children and adults?
Indeed, young children and babies not only absorb more heat than adults, but they also produce more when they are active, and they sweat less. Furthermore, they often forget to drink or to say they are thirsty.
That is why it is important to be especially vigilant during periods of extreme heat.
Signs of Heatstroke
- Urine is darker and less frequent
- Dry skin, lips, or mouth
- Headache, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Abnormal skin colour, pale or red
- Dark circles under the eyes
- Rectal temperature of 38.5°C (101.3°F) or higher
- Unusual restlessness, irritability, or confusion
- Difficulty breathing
- Drowsiness, excessive sleepiness, and difficulty waking up
- Muscle cramps
If you notice one or more of these signs, stay cool, give your child fluids to drink, and contact Info-Santé at 811 to speak with a nurse. In case of emergency, call 911.
How to Treat and Prevent Heatstroke
- Drink water regularly
- Offer breast milk or formula more often
- Cool the skin several times a day with a wet towel
- Take a cool bath as often as needed
- Spend a few hours a day in an air-conditioned or cool place
- Avoid outdoor activities between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Wear light-coloured, lightweight clothing
- Cover the head with a wide-brimmed hat
- Cool off at splash pads or in a swimming pool
- Choose fruits or vegetables as snacks because they contain water
It is also important never to leave a child or baby alone in a car or a poorly ventilated room, even for a few minutes.
Which LOLO products can help protect your baby's skin on hot days?
LOLO Olive Oil Sunscreen
A mineral sunscreen designed for all skin types, even the most sensitive. It has an SPF of 45 and is water-resistant for 80 minutes. Reapply every two hours and after swimming.
Shop here.
LOLO Olive Oil Gentle Hair & Body Wash
After a day in the sun or at the pool, nothing beats a refreshing bath for baby. Formulated with La Belle Excuse olive oil, LOLO Gentle Body and Hair Wash gently cleanses little ones' skin and hair without drying them out, and removes sunscreen residue.
Shop here.
LOLO Baby Powder
When it's hot and humid, moisture buildup in skin folds can lead to irritation. Talc-free, LOLO Baby Powder helps keep skin feeling fresh and comfortable while absorbing excess moisture.
Shop here.
Sources : Naître et grandir (1, 2), CHU Ste-Justine
