Colloidal oatmeal is finely ground oatmeal that a person can dissolve in water. The resulting solution forms a protective barrier on the surface of the skin, which helps to seal in moisture. Colloidal oatmeal can help to relieve dryness and itching. Colloidal oatmeal also has known antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties , both of which help to reduce skin irritation.
A small study from found that colloidal oatmeal reduced scaling, dryness, roughness, and the intensity of itching in healthy females with mild to moderate itching. Colloidal oatmeal is widely available in creams and lotions. Alternatively, a person can add the finely ground powder directly to bath water. Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid, which people have used for thousands of years as a natural wound disinfectant and antiseptic. According to the National Psoriasis Foundation NPF , apple cider vinegar may be particularly helpful in relieving an itchy scalp.
The NPF recommend diluting the vinegar in water using a 1-to-1 ratio. Apply the solution to the scalp and let it dry before rinsing it gently with lukewarm water. Vinegar can cause a burning sensation on open wounds. People with cracked and bleeding skin should avoid this treatment.
Moisturizers, such as creams and lotions, can help hydrate the outermost layer of the skin. They are often essential for managing skin conditions that cause itching and dryness. A good moisturizer will contain humectants and emollients. It is best to apply moisturizers soon after a bath or shower, while the skin is still a little damp. The NEA provide the following tips on developing a good moisturizing routine:. Baking soda has antifungal properties, and research suggests it is an effective treatment for a range of fungal skin conditions, many of which can cause itching.
The NEA recommend adding one-quarter of a cup of baking soda to a warm bath. An alternative option is to mix the baking soda with a little water to form a paste, which a person can apply directly onto itchy areas. According to the American Academy of Dermatology , people should avoid possible irritants, as they may make itchiness worse. Possible irritants include:. Bathing and showering in hot water remove moisture from the skin, making it more prone to dryness, redness, and itching.
Reducing the water temperature even by a few degrees can help. A humidifier can help to maintain indoor humidity in the dry summer months. It can also help to counteract the drying effects of central heating during winter. Some skincare products contain additives, such as perfumes and artificial colors, which can cause or worsen skin irritation. Clothing made from wool or synthetic fibers can feel rough against the skin, causing itchiness and irritation. Some people are more sensitive than others.
People with itchy skin can choose to wear loose-fitting cotton clothing whenever possible. Cotton allows the skin to breathe and prevents overheating. Studies show that psychological stress can trigger itching. This is caused by hormonal changes and usually gets better over time. In rare cases, itchy skin can be a sign of a more serious condition, such as thyroid, liver or kidney problems.
Page last reviewed: 10 July Next review due: 10 July Itchy skin. How to treat itchy skin yourself Sometimes itching is caused by dry, cracked or irritated skin. These things may also help stop itchy skin returning and avoid skin damage from scratching. Do pat or tap your skin instead of scratching it hold something cool on your skin, like a damp towel have cool or warm baths or showers use an unperfumed moisturiser or emollient regularly keep your nails clean, short and smooth wear loose cotton clothing use a laundry liquid or powder that's for sensitive skin.
These can also be applied directly to the skin in the form of a paste. While antihistamines do not stop the itch sensation, they may be recommended to help people with eczema fall asleep.
Cotton gloves or cutting finger nails short can help protect the skin from night-time scratching. OTC corticosteroids can also help with mild itch. Topical and immunosuppressant medications reduce symptoms of itch as does phototherapy. In severe cases, health care providers may prescribe mirtazapine, an antidepressant that is effective at relieving itch at night; pramoxine, a topical anesthetic; or certain oral antibiotics used for skin infections.
As much as possible, try not to excessively scratch the skin affected by an eczema flare. Too much scratching can lead to more rashes, thickened skin and infections if the surface of the skin is broken.
Neurodermatitis is fueled by the itch-scratch cycle. The affected patch of skin becomes thick, leathery and even itchier the more it is rubbed or scratched because of irritated nerve endings in the skin.
The affected skin may also appear darker than the skin around it and have pronounced lines.
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