Heat Rash vs. Summer Acne: How to Tell the Difference (and How to Treat Both)

Summer brings longer days and warmer weather, but it can also bring unwelcome guests: mysterious red bumps on your face, chest, and back. When you see a new cluster of dots, it's easy to assume it's a breakout. However, you could be dealing with heat rash, a completely different issue that requires a different approach.

Understanding the difference is crucial for effective treatment. Using a harsh acne product on heat rash can make it worse, while a simple soothing lotion won't do much for a true breakout. Let's break down the differences.

What is Heat Rash (Miliaria)?

Heat rash occurs when your sweat ducts become blocked, trapping perspiration under the skin. This typically happens in hot, humid weather.

• What it looks like: Small, superficial red bumps that often look like tiny blisters. They tend to appear in clusters and can feel "prickly" or itchy.
• Common locations: Areas where sweat collects, like the neck, chest, back, and in the crooks of your elbows and knees.

What is Summer Acne (Acne Vulgaris)?

Summer acne is a true breakout, caused when a combination of excess oil, sweat, dead skin cells, and bacteria clog your hair follicles (pores).

• What it looks like: Can present as red papules (bumps), pustules (bumps with pus), blackheads, or whiteheads. They are often more inflamed and can be deeper and more tender than heat rash.
• Common locations: Anywhere you have pores, but commonly on the face, back, and chest ("bacne").

How to Treat Heat Rash: Focus on Calming

The key to treating heat rash is to cool the skin and reduce irritation. Wear loose, breathable clothing and gently cleanse the area. Follow up with a lotion specifically designed to soothe inflammation.

Your Solution: Gentle Probiotic Calming Lotion

Our Gentle Probiotic Calming Lotion is perfect for soothing the prickly discomfort of heat rash. Its anti-inflammatory ingredients help to reduce redness and irritation, providing instant comfort while probiotics support a healthy skin barrier.

How to Treat Summer Acne: Focus on Clarifying

To treat acne, you need to address the root cause: clogged pores. This requires ingredients that can exfoliate and kill bacteria.

Your Solution: Probiotic Clarifying Cleanser

Start by cleansing with our Probiotic Clarifying Cleanser. The 2% Salicylic Acid gets deep into pores to clear out the oil and debris that cause breakouts on both the face and body.

For more tips on soothing irritation, read our Gentle Guide to Soothing Redness and Irritation.

By correctly identifying the cause of your summer skin woes, you can choose the right treatment to get back to a calm, clear complexion and enjoy the rest of the season.