From the Guidelines
For a heat rash from sunburn with swelling that's persisting after two weeks, I recommend using a water-soluble sodium cromolyn cream, applying it two to four times a day to help alleviate urticaria, pruritus, vesicles, or bullae, as suggested by the NCCN clinical practice guidelines in oncology 1. When using this cream, it's essential to avoid applying it to denuded lesions and consider using topical antibiotics instead, as indicated in the guidelines 1. Additionally, taking steps to avoid dryness of the skin and using a skin moisturizer can help in the overall management of the condition 1. It's also crucial to note that if the symptoms persist or worsen, or if you develop signs of infection such as fever, increasing pain, pus, or spreading redness, you should consult a healthcare provider promptly for further evaluation and treatment. In terms of other topical treatments, while corticosteroids and creams may be beneficial, the most recent and relevant guideline for this specific condition recommends the use of water-soluble sodium cromolyn cream 1. Some studies suggest the use of topical corticosteroids, such as clobetasol propionate 0.05% cream, for certain skin conditions 2, but for a heat rash from sunburn with swelling, the NCCN guidelines provide more relevant and specific recommendations 1. Therefore, the primary approach should focus on using water-soluble sodium cromolyn cream as directed, along with general skin care measures to promote healing and comfort.
From the FDA Drug Label
PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 28.4 g Tube Carton TopCare health ™ MAXIMUM STRENGTH • OUR PHARMACISTS RECOMMEND • NDC 36800-099-02 Hydrocortisone 1% Cream ANTIPRURITIC (ANTI-ITCH) Intensive Healing Formula † NET WT 1 OZ (28.4 g) Purpose Anti-itch
The hydrocortisone cream can be used for anti-itch purposes.
- It may help with itching associated with heat rash from sunburn.
- However, there is no direct information about its use for swelling two weeks after sunburn. The FDA drug label does not answer the question about using the cream for swelling two weeks out [3] [4].
From the Research
Treatment Options for Heat Rash from Sunburn with Swelling
- Topical corticosteroids have been studied as a treatment for sunburn, with some studies showing their effectiveness in reducing sunburn reactions 5, 6.
- A study published in 2008 found that high-potency corticosteroids applied 30 minutes before UV-B exposure were effective in reducing sunburn reactions, but not when applied 6 or 23 hours after exposure 5.
- Another study published in 2002 found that topical glucocorticosteroids, such as 0.1% methylprednisolone aceponate milk and 0.1% hydrocortisone 17-butyrate emulsion, were effective in treating sunburn in healthy volunteers 6.
- However, it's worth noting that the effectiveness of topical corticosteroids may depend on the timing of application and the severity of the sunburn.
Creams for Heat Rash from Sunburn with Swelling
- Hydrocortisone cream has been used as a treatment for sunburn, but its effectiveness may be limited compared to other topical corticosteroids 6, 7.
- Fluocinonide cream, a potent steroid, has been shown to be more effective than hydrocortisone cream in clearing discoid lupus erythematosus skin lesions, which may be relevant to treating heat rash from sunburn with swelling 7.
- Other creams, such as pimecrolimus 1% cream, have been studied but found to be less effective in treating sunburn reactions 7, 8.
Considerations for Treatment
- The timing of treatment is crucial, with some studies suggesting that topical corticosteroids are more effective when applied before or immediately after sun exposure 5, 6.
- The severity of the sunburn and the individual's skin type may also affect the effectiveness of treatment 5, 8.
- Further research is needed to determine the most effective treatments for heat rash from sunburn with swelling, as the current evidence is limited and inconclusive 7.