Itchy skin is often harmless and can be caused by dry or cold weather, but it also can be the sign of a more serious illness, like kidney failure or liver disease, states the Mayo Clinic. Scratching your itchy skin may seem harmless, but it can spread bacteria and cause infection. The next time you feel the urge to scratch, try a home remedy to help soothe your skin. If at-home care does not help your itchy skin, consult your doctor, who can determine the underlying problem that is causing your dry skin.
Step 1
Moisturize your skin every day with a cream-based moisturizer, suggests dermatologist Sheryl Clark, M.D. Cream-based moisturizers are available over the counter and are available without fragrances for individuals with sensitive skin.
Step 2
Take a shower in lukewarm or cool water. Avoid bathing or showering in hot water, which will dry out skin even more.
Step 3
Stop scratching. Even if there is no underlying problem, skin that is not given a chance to heal will continue to itch, states the Mayo Clinic.
Step 4
Take a cool bath in colloidal oatmeal. Colloidal oatmeal is oatmeal that has been ground into a fine powder, and has soothing, anti-itch properties. You can purchase colloidal oatmeal at the drugstore, or you can make your own by placing cooking oats into a clean coffee grinder for 10 seconds.
Step 5
Sleep with a humidifier. Humidifiers spread moisture into the air by vaporizing water. While you sleep, the water particles in the air will absorb into your skin, making dry skin moist and less itchy.
Step 6
Wear cotton clothing. Some fabrics, like polyester and wool, can irritate skin, making it itchy. Instead, wear cotton clothing that has been laundered in an unscented detergent that will not irritate your skin.
Tips and Warnings
- Apply moisturizing lotion right after getting out of the shower, while your skin is still damp.
- Consult a doctor if your skin is itching because of a rash, or if your itching skin is accompanied by other symptoms.
Things You'll Need
- Cream-based moisturizer
- Colloidal oatmeal
- Coffee grinder
- Humidifier
- Cotton clothing
- Unscented detergent
Member Comments