Itchy skin is uncomfortable and may disrupt your normal routine and daily life. It is often caused by dry skin, but can also be caused by skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis or hives. Other causes of dry skin include allergic reactions, pregnancy, lice, certain medications and some health problems, such as liver disease, kidney failure and anemia. If you have no other symptoms, home remedies for treating dry, irritated skin can often relieve the itching.
Step 1
Try to avoid scratching. Scratching your skin can lead to cuts, infection, thickened skin and more irritation. The Mayo Clinic suggests cutting your nails short and wearing gloves at night in order to minimize scratching.
Step 2
Use products and wear clothing that will not irritate your skin more. Use non-scented and non-allergenic laundry detergents and mild soaps. Do not wear jewelry that bothers your skin. Wear 100% cotton clothing without scratchy seams or embroidery.
Step 3
Apply moisturizer to your itchy skin. Choose one that is hypoallergenic to avoid irritating your skin more. Petroleum jelly or other ointments, oils, creams and lotions will help to add moisture to your dry skin, and may relieve the itching.
Step 4
Use cool compresses to soothe itchy skin. A cool bath may also bring relief.
Step 5
Use an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream or ointment on the itchy parts of your skin. Be sure to follow the directions carefully, and don't apply it more often than the instructions indicate.
Step 6
Take an antihistamine to reduce itching if it is especially severe. Some examples of over-the-counter antihistamines are Benadryl and Zyrtec.
Step 7
See your doctor if you have a rash, if you suspect an infection, if the itching lasts longer than a couple of weeks, if home remedies do not work or if the itching is disturbing your sleep. Your doctor may be able to prescribe a stronger cream or an oral medication to treat the inflammation, or may discover another cause to your itching and discomfort.
Things You'll Need
- Non-scented laundry detergent
- Non-allergenic soap
- Moisturizer
- Over-the-counter medications
