You may develop itchy, red skin due to general dry skin or because of more serious conditions, such as eczema. No matter the cause of your itchy, red skin, you want relief. Moisturizing dry skin may help restore hydration as well as alleviate itchiness. For more serious conditions, your doctor may recommend other treatment options.
Dryness
Dryness often causes skin to become red and itchy. It may also cause scaling and cracking of your skin. According to MedlinePlus, dry skin commonly occurs on your arms, the sides of your abdomen, thighs and lower legs. The condition occurs most often during the winter months, when the heated air inside your house or office causes low humidity in the air. Other causes may include eczema and bathing too frequently. To prevent or treat dry skin, take short showers or baths using warm water. If possible, use very little soap or switch to mild soaps or cleansers. The moisture in your skin may be increased by using moisturizers every day, drinking lots of water and using a humidifier in your home.
Hives
Hives cause your skin to be covered in itchy welts that are red and raised. Hives may vary in size and appear at various locations on your body. According to MayoClinic.com, hives are the result of inflammation of the skin. This inflammation may be caused by an allergic reaction to foods such as shellfish, milk, nuts, chocolate and eggs. Another common cause of hives is medication allergies. Common medications that cause this reaction include penicillin, ibuprofen and aspirin. Hives may be treated with over-the-counter antihistamines such as chlorpheniramine and diphenhydramine. For severe hives, your doctor may prescribe medications including fexofenadine and desloratadine.
Pregnancy
When you are pregnant and your belly begins to get bigger, your skin will tighten and stretch. This may cause your belly to become dry, itchy and red. To help relieve the itchiness, be sure to moisturize your belly on a regular basis. You can also rub creams that relieve itching, like calamine lotion, on your abdomen. Consult your doctor if your itching becomes severe or if it is accompanied by fatigue, nausea, loss of appetite and vomiting, as these may be signs of cholestasis, according to the American Pregnancy Association.
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