According to recent weather reports the UK is in for a heat wave, thanks to a warm blast of African air.

This means we can all look forward to long summer days basking in the sunshine. But overexposure of the sun and excessive sweating can cause rashes on the skin.

Here's everything you need to know about how to stay safe or treat heat rash and prickly skin.

What is prickly heat?

Also known as miliaria rubra, prickly heat is an itchy rash that causes small bumps, stinging and a prickly sensation on the skin.

It can develop anywhere on the body but most commonly appears on the face, neck, back, chest or thighs a few days after exposure to hot temperatures.

Sometimes the spots can blister. Prickly heat develops when a person sweats more than usual, such as during hot or humid weather. However, it's also possible to get prickly heat in the winter.

Babies and children are more likely to get it because their sweat glands are not fully developed.

It is not a serious condition and rarely requires medical treatment. The rash should disappear within a few days.

The NHS said: "Prickly heat is common in babies and doesn't cause any serious harm. However, if you're concerned, your GP will be able to confirm the cause of your baby's rash and give appropriate treatment."

What causes heat rash?

Heat rash is often caused by excessive sweating. The sweat glands get blocked which then traps the sweat and causes a rash that can develop a few days later.

Babies can often get a heat rash because they can’t control their temperature as well as adults and children.

Sweating is usually caused by hot or humid weather but other things - like being overweight, or spending long periods in bed, can cause it.

According to the NHS, the symptoms of heat rash are:

  • small red spots
  • an itchy and prickly feeling
  • redness and mild swelling

How can I prevent heat rash?

According to the NHS the main thing to do is keep your skin cool.

You can do this by:

  • Wearing loose fit clothing
  • Using lightweight bedding
  • Taking cool baths or showers
  • Drinking plenty of fluids

How can I treat heat rash?

To help soothe sore and itchy skin you can:

  • use calamine lotion
  • use hydrocortisone cream (but not on the face)
  • take antihistamine tablets (but speak to a pharmacist first as they’re not always appropriate)

You can buy these from most pharmacies. The pharmacist can advise you on the best medicines to use, for example if you’re pregnant or a child has the rash.