Dermatologist shares summer relief tips for rashes and sunburn

A dermatologist offered summer skin-care guidance for poison ivy, prickly heat and sunburn, three complaints that become more common during the season, according to TODAY. The advice matters for people spending more time outdoors as heat, plants and sun exposure can leave skin irritated.

Dr. Michelle Henry, a board-certified dermatologist, appeared on TODAY on July 1, 2026, to discuss ways to prevent and treat those summer skin problems. TODAY described summer as peak season for common skin complaints including poison ivy, prickly heat and sunburn.

Henry’s recommendations included oatmeal baths for exposure to poison plants, according to TODAY. The segment also pointed to cool compresses as a way to address heat rash.

For sunburn, Henry recommended aloe vera, TODAY reported. The program said her advice covered both prevention and treatment, though the segment summary did not list every step discussed.

What the segment covered

• TODAY said summer is a peak period for poison ivy, prickly heat and sunburn.
• Henry joined the program as a board-certified dermatologist to discuss prevention and relief.
• Her listed tips included oatmeal baths for poison plant exposure.
• Her listed tips also included cool compresses for heat rash and aloe vera for sunburn.

The health segment ran for 3 minutes and 54 seconds, according to TODAY. It was part of the program’s summer health coverage, which has also included recent segments on skin hydration, sunscreen and other health topics.

TODAY did not provide additional details in its published summary about when to seek medical care or which products Henry recommended beyond the examples listed. People with serious symptoms, worsening irritation or uncertainty about treatment should consult a medical professional.

This story draws on original reporting from TODAY.com.