Common summer rashes in children: What parents should know

Medically reviewed by Dr. Betsy Koickel, MD on July 21, 2026.

While summer can be fun for kids, it also brings a higher risk of skin issues, like rashes. Rashes in the summer can have several causes, such as heat, sweat, chlorine, eczema flares, or bug bites.

Here’s what to know about the most common summer rashes, how to prevent and treat them, and when it’s time to seek medical care. 

1. Heat rash

Heat rash looks like small red bumps, often on the neck, chest, or underarms. It is caused by blocked sweat ducts that trap sweat under the skin. This is most common in hot, humid weather, especially in young children.

This type of summer rash is typically not dangerous and can be resolved by moving your child to a cooler environment, applying a cool compress, dressing them in loose, breathable clothing, and keeping the skin clean and dry. 

If the rash doesn’t improve after a few days, becomes painful, or shows signs of infection, it is best to seek medical treatment. 

2. Chafing rash

A common summer rash in kids is chafing. This is caused by friction from skin or clothing, leading to red, irritated, or raw areas. This type of  rash often occurs in the inner thighs or underarms during hot and humid weather.

To prevent chafing, use moisture-wicking clothes, change out of wet swimwear quickly, and apply barrier ointment. Consider seeing a healthcare provider if the redness gets worse or becomes infected.

3. Swimmer’s irritation

Swimmer’s irritation is itchy, red, or dry skin after swimming. It’s typically caused by chlorine exposure and staying in a wet swimsuit for too long, which can irritate and dry out the skin.
To help prevent this, rinse off with fresh water after swimming, change out of wet clothes as soon as possible, and apply a gentle moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated. Most cases are mild and improve quickly, but you should consider seeing a healthcare provider if the irritation becomes painful or develops blisters.

4. Bug bite reactions

Bugs are more active in warmer months, so reactions to bites can also be more frequent. Insect bites often appear as raised, itchy bumps on the skin and can be caused by mosquitoes, fleas, ants, or ticks. 

These bites can be uncomfortable but are usually mild and manageable at home. To relieve symptoms, gently wash the area, apply a cold compress to reduce swelling, and use an anti-itch cream if needed. 

To help prevent bites, use insect repellent and avoid areas with standing water where insects tend to breed. You should seek medical care if there is significant swelling, fever, or signs of infection.

5. Poisonous plant rashes

Poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac can cause an itchy rash after the skin comes into contact with urushiol, the oil found in these plants. Symptoms may include redness or discoloration, swelling, itching, blisters, or streaky patches where the plant brushes against the skin.

To avoid these rashes, learn what poisonous plants look like, wear long sleeves and pants in wooded areas, and wash skin, clothing, shoes, and pets after possible exposure. 

If a rash develops, rinse the skin, avoid scratching, and use cool compresses, calamine lotion, or hydrocortisone cream to relieve itching. Consider visiting urgent care if the rash shows signs of infection or does not improve.

6. Eczema flare-ups

Eczema flare-ups appear as dry, red, itchy patches on the elbows, knees, or face. In the summer, eczema can be triggered by heat, sweat, allergens, or chlorine.

To help manage symptoms, keep your child cool, moisturize the skin frequently with a gentle, fragrance-free lotion, and use a sensitive-skin sunscreen. Consider seeing a healthcare provider if the flare-up worsens or shows signs of infection.

Summer skin care tips

Keeping your child’s skin healthy and preventing common summer rashes starts with a few simple habits. Try to keep kids cool and dry, and have them change out of wet clothes or swimsuits as soon as possible. 

Use sunscreen regularly to protect against sunburn, apply insect repellent to reduce bug bites, and choose gentle moisturizers to support skin health. It’s also helpful to keep nails trimmed to reduce skin damage from scratching. 

For more tips for summer safety, check out 7 essential summer safety tips for kids.

When to visit urgent care

It’s important to know when a rash may need medical attention. You should consider visiting urgent care for summer skin rash treatment if the rash is severe, spreading, shows signs of drainage, or is accompanied by a fever. Prompt evaluation can help identify the cause and ensure the right treatment is started. To get started, find a center near you and walk in or save your spot online.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about common summer rashes.

Can sunscreen cause a rash in kids? 

Yes, some children can react to certain sunscreen ingredients, especially fragrances or chemical filters. Try switching to a mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide if irritation occurs.

Should my child stay out of the pool if they have a rash?

It depends on the type of rash, but chlorine can worsen many rashes, so it’s best to limit pool time until the skin improves. Avoid the pool if your child has an active skin infection or open wound.

Is heat rash contagious?

No, heat rash is not contagious.

How can I stop my child from scratching bug bites? 

Use anti-itch creams, cold compresses, and keep nails trimmed to reduce skin damage. Covering the area can also help prevent scratching, especially at night.

How do I know if a rash is infected? 

Signs of infection include increasing redness, swelling, warmth, pain, or pus. Fever or red streaks spreading from the rash are also reasons to seek medical care.