The skin is an essential organ, designed to protect the body from infection and temperature extremes, and it has several layers that each have a specific function. While the skin does its best to protect the body against infection, it still may become irritated and develop itching that feels as if it is coming from underneath the layers. Under-skin itching may be caused by several types of circumstances that can be controlled to maintain comfort.
Mites
Some types of mites can cause an infestation under the skin that results in persistent itching. Scabies are a contagious form of mites that burrow under the skin to lay eggs. When the eggs hatch, the new mites travel to other skin sites to burrow there. After infestation, severe itching results that is unrelieved by topical medication. The mites feed on skin cells and the body reacts to their excretions, causing the itching response.
Allergies
Under-skin itching may be the result of a reaction to environmental allergens or as a side effect to medication. Some types of chemicals, including soap or perfume; mold or pet dander; and some kinds of clothing fibers can all irritate the skin, causing an itching sensation that is difficult to relieve. Medications, including some types of dietary supplements, as well as an interaction between two kinds of prescription medications can also cause under-skin itching.
RLS
Restless legs syndrome, or RLS, is a condition that can result in itching underneath the skin, with an inability to resolve the feeling. According to the University of Michigan Health System, symptoms often appear at bedtime when you are lying down, causing sleep difficulties. RLS causes the sensation of itching under the skin; additionally, you may feel prickling, burning or crawling sensations in the legs, giving the impulse to move to relieve symptoms.
Considerations
If you have itching under the skin that is difficult to resolve, contact your doctor for an initial exam. Some conditions, such as scabies, must be treated by a dermatologist; while other situations may resolve by changing your lifestyle. If everyone in your household or workplace is also having symptoms, it may be an environmental pollutant or a contagious outbreak. A specialist who specifically works with insects, known as an entomologist, or an industrial hygienist who works with cleaning the work environment may need to assess the situation.
Treatment
Treatment of itching underneath the skin depends on the cause and any external symptoms that may be present. Restless legs syndrome is often controlled by changing your dietary habits and adding vitamin supplements as directed by your doctor. Treatment of scabies involves topical creams designed to kill the insects and prevent them from spreading. Your doctor may also consider what medications you take and how they interact with each other to determine if they are causing symptoms of itching.
