Understanding Heat Pimples on Face: Causes and Triggers

July 5, 2024

Dr. Shraddha Pitalia

3 min read

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A girl with heat pimples on face

Heat pimples on the face can be a frustrating and challenging experience for most individuals, especially during hot and humid weather. These tiny bumps are caused by trapped sweat and the accumulation of bacteria and oil in the pores, which cause inflammation. In this detailed blog, we will discuss what heat pimples on the face are, how to get rid of heat pimples, and various solutions ranging from natural remedies to professional treatments, valuable tips, and lifestyle changes that can help you get clear and radiant skin.

What are Heat Pimples?

Heat pimples, also known as sweat pimples, acne mechanica, or prickly heat rash, are small, red bumps that appear on the skin when sweat mixes with bacteria and clogs the pores. They are commonly found on your face and body parts that produce excessive sweating and oil, like the forehead, nose, and chin.

Causes of Heat Pimples

  • Sweat: Excessive sweating, particularly in hot and humid weather, can clog pores and cause heat pimples. Sweat mixed with dirt and bacteria creates the best environment for pimples to form.
  • Friction: Wearing tight, airtight clothing, using a helmet, or sporting equipment can cause friction against the skin, irritating it and making pimples more likely to occur.
  • Increased Sebum Production: To keep the skin hydrated, the sebaceous glands in the skin generate sebum or oil. However, excessive oil production—which is frequently caused by hot weather—can block pores and result in pimples.
  • Bacteria: The presence of bacteria on the skin, particularly Propionibacterium acnes, can exacerbate the formation of pimples when combined with sweat and oil.

How Do You Get Rid of Heat Pimples on Your Face?

Treating heat pimples, requires a blend of improved skincare techniques and lifestyle modifications. Here are some effective strategies and professional treatments to get rid of pimples and maintain healthy skin:

  • Regular cleaning: Wash your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser to remove sweat, oil, and dirt. Avoid using harsh soaps.
  • Exfoliation: To prevent clogged pores and remove dead skin cells, use a mild exfoliator once or twice a week.
  • Stay Hydrated: Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day to prevent excessive sweating and reduce body temperature.
  • Wear Breathable Clothing: Wear loose and breathable fabrics like cotton to reduce friction and allow your skin to breathe.
  • Take frequent showers: To prevent excessive sweating, take frequent cool showers after exercising and spend time in air-conditioned spaces to lower the body temperature.
  • Use clean towels and linens: Use washed and clean towels, and change pillow covers regularly to minimize the bacteria and oil transfer to the face.

Must Read: How to get rid of blemishes on face?

Natural Remedies to reduce heat pimples on face

Here is a list of natural remedies to reduce heat pimples on the face.

  • Aloe vera: Apply fresh aloe vera gel directly to the targeted area, leave for 30 minutes, and rinse it. Due to its anti-inflammatory and cooling properties, it soothes and reduces inflammation.
  • Tea tree oil: Dilute a few drops of oil with a carrier oil and apply it to the targeted area. Leave it for 20–30 minutes and rinse it off. Repeat one time daily.
  • Cold Compress: Place a cloth-wrapped ice pack on the heat pimples for 10 minutes. Repeating this process helps to reduce inflammation and soothe the skin.
  • Cucumber: Place a cucumber slice on the heat pimples for 5–15 minutes; this cools the targeted area and makes you feel relaxed.

Important Note: Perform a patch test on a small area before implementing natural remedies. This helps to identify any adverse reactions.

Professional Treatments for Heat Pimples

For stubborn or severe heat pimples on the face, consider consulting a dermatologist who can recommend the following:

  • Topical Application: If your heat pimple gets infected, dermatologists may prescribe topical antibiotic creams that contain clindamycin, benzoyl peroxide, minocycline, or retinol/tritanol. Vitamin A derivatives may also be prescribed based on their severity.
  • Oral Medications: Depending on the severity, the dermatologist can prescribe oral antibiotics, retinols, or capsules containing doxycycline or amoxyllin to reduce inflammation and itching.
  • Chemical peel: Dermatologists apply a salicylic acid peel to exfoliate the skin and unclog pores. Multiple sessions may be needed.
  • Laser Treatment: Dermatologists use carbon lasers to target affected areas, reducing oil production and bacteria.

At Evenly, to ensure safe and effective treatment, we use a USFDA-approved tribeam machine that emits a Q-switched ND YAG laser. Our team boasts board-certified dermatologists and well-trained therapists.

Must Read: How to get rid of forehead acne?

Additional Tips to Prevent Pimples Due to Heat

  • Maintain Good Hygiene: Wash your face twice a day with a mild cleanser and try not to touch it.
  • Use Non-Comedogenic Products: Pick non-comedogenic skincare and cosmetics products, and apply oil-free sunscreen.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drink a sufficient amount of water and eat hydrating foods.
  • Wear Breathable Clothing: Opt for loose-fitting, breathable fabrics like cotton or lenin, especially during the summer season.
  • Manage stress: Stress can exacerbate skin problems. Practice stress-reducing activities like yoga and meditation, and ensure adequate sleep.

Heat pimples on the face can be bothersome, especially during the summer season. But it can be managed and reduced by understanding its cause and implementing both natural remedies and professional treatments. Please book an appointment with Evenly Clinic to reduce and get rid of heat pimples effectively. Our dermatologist will give you a detailed treatment option.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Heart pimples are small red bumps that appear on the skin due to excessive sweating, friction, tight clothing, excessive oil production, and bacteria growth.

If left untouched, heat pimples won’t leave any scars. Picking can create scars.

With proper skin care and treatment, heat pimples subside within a few days to a week.

Yes, acne is caused by the accumulation of dead skin cells and oil, whereas heat pimples are caused by trapped sweat. These heat pimples are smaller and itchier than acne.

Sweating during physical activity is healthy. But take a cold shower and change your clothes to avoid pimples.

If heat pimples are severe and cause inflammation, it is advisable to consult dermatologists. They will help you get the right treatment.

We hope this information is helpful. If you have any skin and hair-related questions or would like to discuss personalized solutions, please reach out to us at 7337899030. Our team of specialists is committed to delivering personalized care tailored to your specific needs. Take the first step towards a healthier, more confident you by scheduling a consultation with us today. Your journey to vibrant skin and stronger hair begins here.

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