Itchy skin is a symptom of skin conditions such as psoriasis, dermatitus, tinea infections and scabies. According to The Mayo Clinic, frequent itching can also be a symptom of serious diseases such as liver disease and anemia. But the majority of times, itchy skin is caused by excessive dryness. If you have had itchy skin for more than two weeks and you are uncertain of the causes, consult with your health care provider. Ask him if you can use home remedies to provide some relief.
Step 1
Take a cool bath. Grind oats in a blender and sprinkle them in the water while the water is running. Oats are a widely used remedy for dry skin. They contain chemicals called avenanthramides, which fight inflammation and redness. While in the bath, use soap sparingly. Too much soap can wash away oils on the skin that preserve moisture. Soak in the tub for approximately 15 minutes. Be certain to wash all the soap off your body. According to The Mayo Clinic, baking soda can be substituted for ground oats if necessary.
Step 2
Apply a moisturizer to your skin directly after the bath. When you dry off, don't scrub your skin, gently pat it. According the University Of Iowa Healthcare website, the moisturizer you select should be rich in oils. The oils trap and seal water in the stratum corneum, which helps prevent dryness. The moisturizer should be applied frequently throughout the days, especially to areas of your body that are most subject to dryness. In addition to oil moisturizers, ointment moisturizers such as petroleum jelly also help prevent dryness.
Step 3
Apply an anti-itch cream. Topical anesthetics numb inflamed nerve endings and help you resist the urge to itch. Look for preparations that contain benzocaine. Calamine lotions and lotions that contain 1 percent hydrocortisone are also effective at stopping the urge to itch. According to the University Of Iowa, you need to be careful when selecting anti-itch creams. Some contain chemicals that may irritate dry skin. Products that contain menthol and camphor are generally safe to use. Consult with your health care provider if you have concerns about the anti-itch cream you have selected.
Step 4
Wear light cotton clothing. Your clothing should be loose fitting and not rub against your itchy skin. Wearing clothing that is too heavy may cause you to perspire. When the perspiration evaporates, the salt residue may aggravate your dry skin.
Tips and Warnings
- Take a cool shower and apply moisturizer immediately after exercising. While perspiration may temporarily provide moisture to dry skin, it also washes away natural oils that help to trap moisture at the surface of the skin.
- Avoid scratching the areas of your body that itch. Excessive scratching can cause areas to bleed and can lead to infection.
Things You'll Need
- Anti-itch cream
- Body moisturizer
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