What should I do if I develop heat rash on my neck during military training?

Heat rash (miliaria) commonly develops due to obesity or exposure to cool, damp, and humid environmental conditions. Infants are especially prone to heat rash because they have relatively more subcutaneous fat and tend to sweat profusely. So, what should you do if your baby develops heat rash on the neck during military training?

How to Manage Heat Rash on the Neck During Military Training

For heat rash on the neck, calamine-based or talcum-based baby powder can be used. After bathing or gently cleansing the skin with lukewarm water, apply an appropriate amount of powder to areas prone to heat rash—such as the neck, chest, back, elbow creases, and popliteal fossae—and apply slightly more generously to affected areas. Note that some powders may stain clothing; therefore, daytime use is not recommended. Apply the powder after your evening bath instead. If needed, reapply before bedtime to accelerate resolution of the rash. Allow the skin to air-dry.

If heat rash appears suddenly and bathing is temporarily impractical, first pour lukewarm water into a bowl, add a few drops of mosquito-repellent lotion (e.g., Hu Lu Lu), stir thoroughly, and then gently wipe the affected area with a clean, damp towel. While this method may offer temporary relief in emergencies, baby powder remains the preferred and most effective option when circumstances permit. Mosquito-repellent lotions contain irritating ingredients; excessive or frequent use may adversely affect health and is thus not recommended for routine application. Alternatively, Huoxiang Zhengqi Water (a traditional Chinese herbal preparation) may be used. During bathing, add Huoxiang Zhengqi Water to the bathwater, mix well, and bathe as usual—it helps effectively alleviate heat rash. Additionally, you may directly apply Huoxiang Zhengqi Water to affected areas using a cotton swab.

Before military training begins, keep Huoxiang Zhengqi Water readily available in your bedroom. Besides its external benefits—including antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antipruritic effects—it can also be taken orally to treat heatstroke and summer colds. We hope this article has been helpful. Wishing you a joyful life and good health!