Itchy skin, known medically as pruritus, is a condition that is usually not serious, and can be caused by allergies, dry skin, eczema and dermatitis. In some cases, itchy skin may be a sign of a serious condition, or lead to a serious skin infection, according to the Mayo Clinic. If your itchy skin is accompanied by one or more additional symptoms, like a fever, sore throat, headache or visible rash, consult a doctor for additional treatment and care. Otherwise, itchy skin can be treated using home remedies.
Step 1
Apply a wet, cold compress to the area, suggests the Mayo Clinic. Wet a washcloth in cold water and apply directly to the skin to ease itching, as needed. When the washcloth gets warm, wring it out and rinse it in cold water again.
Step 2
Take a bath in colloidal oatmeal, advises dermatologist Howard Donsky, M.D. Add 2 cups of colloidal oatmeal to a lukewarm bath and soak to soothe itchy skin. Avoid using very hot water, as it can irritate the skin and cause it to itch more.
Step 3
Wear 100 percent cotton clothing. Avoid wearing wool and polyester and other synthetic materials, as they can cause skin to itch.
Step 4
Wash your clothing in unscented detergent. Scented detergent may contain chemicals and other irritants that make skin itch. Unscented detergent is more gentle and will help allow skin to heal.
Step 5
Sleep with a humidifier in your room. A humidifier releases water into the air, which can be absorbed by your itchy skin, which will soothe it.
Step 6
Apply a moisturizer containing hydrocortisone to your skin. Hydrocortisone reduces redness, swelling and itching, and can help keep you from scratching your skin.
Tips and Warnings
- Apply an antibacterial ointment to your skin to help prevent the spread of bacteria due to scratching.
- Consult a doctor if itchy skin is so severe that your skin has scabs or deep scratches.
Things You'll Need
- Washcloth
- Colloidal oatmeal
- 100 percent cotton clothing
- Unscented detergent
- Humidifier
- Hydrocortisone
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