DIY vs. Medicated Prickly Heat Powder: Pros, Cons, and What to Choose

Prickly heat is also commonly referred to as heat rash and is prevalent when the weather is hot and humid. The occurrence of this skin condition leads to the formation of bumps on the skin. Discomfort, irritation, itching, and redness are some of the common symptoms. Normally, we sweat a lot over the summer months because of the high temperatures. Due to the humidity at such times, sweat doesn’t readily evaporate causing a buildup on the skin. This may end up clogging the skin pores.

To handle the issues brought about by heat and humidity; consider investing in the best prickling heat powder. You have the option to settle for a DIY option or settle for medicated formulas. However, which is the best choice to make? We should carefully compare the advantages and disadvantages of each option to make a more informed and practical choice.

DIY heat powder

For many people, DIY solutions are easier to access and seem to be rather affordable because you can use readily available ingredients at home to remedy various skin conditions. DIY formulations take advantage of things like Neem powder, sandalwood powder, and cornstarch, among others. You only need to make a combination of some of these and start applying on the skin.

Pros of using DIY powder

Some of the main reasons to consider using these options include:

• Natural ingredients: the home remedies utilize natural ingredients with no artificial additives or chemicals. This lowers irritation risks on the skin.
• Customizable: One thing about DIY solutions is that they can be tailored to suit your specific preferences and skin type. You can also substitute one ingredient for another.
• Cost-effectiveness: here, you use only common ingredients within your household. You may not have to go out to get something more before coming up with an ideal powder that matches your needs.

Cons

As with any other solution, there are some disadvantages when using this type of solution including:

• The effectiveness may be limited: Since the formulation is being done at home and is medicated, you may not get the same kind of results.
• Short shelf life: These remedies don’t have any preservatives and may need to be depleted quickly before they go bad.
• The results may be inconsistent: normally, these products only work based on the ingredients used and how they were prepared. This means that their effectiveness can vary.

Medicated prickly heat powder

These are products such as Dermicool powder with ingredients that have been medically reviewed and tested. These include camphor, menthol, lavender, tulsi, and sandalwood among others. They have antimicrobial agents to offer fast relief.

Pros of using the medicated options

There are several reasons why these options stand out and they include:

• Fast relief: One thing about the products is the inclusion of cooling agents in the formula. As such, itching and burning are alleviated almost immediately.
• Prevents the development of infection: Because of the antimicrobial properties, your skin is protected from fungal and bacterial infections.
• Long shelf life: Normally, they have natural preservatives and stabilizers to allow extended use.

Cons

• Chemical content: some manufacturers may include artificial additives that may cause outbreaks in sensitive skin. You need to choose your products more carefully.
• Higher cost: these tend to be more highly-priced than the DIY counterparts

Best pick

If you are dealing with mild irritations on the skin, then a DIY solution may be enough for your needs. However, get a medicated prickly heat powder if the cases are more severe. This offers a faster remedy and reduces the chances of developing an infection. This is also the right choice to make if your skin is sensitive. Medicated formulations have skin-friendly ingredients and are therefore gentler.