You may experience itchy skin at night just before bedtime for a number of reasons. Scratching your skin could lead to minor cuts and scrapes, infection or possibly spreading a rash to other parts of your body. If the rash is persistent, consult with your physician to determine the exact cause and a proper solution.
History
Typically, itchy skin is a sign of an irritation, inflammation or an allergy, according to KidsHealth.org. A variety of factors can cause each of these causes. The most important step is determining what caused the itchy skin and correct the problem. Without identifying the cause, you're setting yourself up for future skin problems, such as developing eczema, possible infection or scarring if the area is scratched very hard and results in a cut or abrasion.
Identification
You may notice that your skin itches, and it may also appear red in the area, especially if you've been scratching the site. Try to rule out possible causes, such as allergies. Switching to a new brand of soap you're allergic to could cause you to itch, especially if you bathe just before bed. Wearing a new lotion could have the same effect. A new soap or lotion could cause skin irritation, inflammation and if you're allergic to any of the ingredients, an allergic reaction could occur. If you've gone to bed shortly after eating dinner, a new food that you could have eaten may cause an allergic reaction, which could result in itchy skin. You may also have bedbugs, which could cause you to have itchy skin. They feed off dead skin flakes that shed onto your bedding as you sleep at night. Most people are not allergic to the house pest but some are. The Mayo Clinic describes the bedbug bites as small, raised bumps.
Prevention/Solution
Hydrocortisone cream can help ease some of the discomfort associated with the itching and inflammation. It is sold over the counter in various strengths. For a severe rash or severe itching, consult with your physician about other possible treatment options. Your doctor may recommend an oral antihistamine, or you may require a topical corticosteroid, depending upon the cause and severity of the itch. If bedbugs are the problem, laundering your bed linens on a regular basis can help deter the pests. If they are persistent, you may need a professional exterminator to completely rid your house of bedbugs.
Warning
Do not ignore itchy skin. This may be one of the first signs of something more serious, such as poison ivy or jock itch. You may notice the itch more at night than during the day, because you are still and are not preoccupied by other distractions. Bedbugs can infest your mattress, couch and other furniture. If you do not properly treat your home for bedbugs, they can continue to multiply. If you do not seek proper medical care, the itch could result into a harsh rash, which could lead to scarring.
Considerations
If using over-the-counter medications such as hydrocortisone cream or taking an oral antihistamine doesn't relieve the itching, schedule an appointment with your physician. It may be possible that the soap you use could dry out your skin, in which case you would need to apply a moisturizer right after bathing, according to KidsHealth.org.
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