Whether it's from poison ivy or a bug bite, an itch can drive you mad. Luckily, there are plenty of anti-itch "creams," which include lotions and gels, in 4 basic types: antihistamines, anesthetics, steroids and other. There are pros and cons for each type of treatment and sometimes they're even used in combination.
Antihistamines are common ingredients in cold medicines. They help stop cold symptoms, like sneezing and watery, itching eyes. They are also used in creams to help stop itching of the skin.
Anesthetics, like benzocaine and lidocaine, act by dulling the sensation of the itch. They play a bit of a trick on the brain by blocking nerve signals but can be quite effective.
Creams that contain steroids, known as hydrocortisone creams, are available both over the counter (in strengths of .5% and 1%) and by prescription. The prescription hydrocortisone creams are stronger, and must be used more carefully.
"Other" is a big category, but here's a quick look at some of the most popular forms. Anti-itch creams often use oatmeal because it spreads evenly throughout the cream and helps brush away dead skin. It also has a natural anti-itch quality. Aloe vera gel is a common anti-itch treatment, and can be bought at the store or used straight from your own houseplant. Camphor, a resin from the camphor tree, and phenol, found in coal tar, are often combined to treat bug bites.
Menthol oil is added to some creams because of its cooling effect. Calamine lotion is a favorite to fight poison ivy and poison oak. Tea tree oil, from the Australian melaleuca tree, also has a numbing effect.
What to Look for
Look for immediate relief. If the first product you try doesn't work for you, try something else. If you continue to itch it's likely you'll scratch, and the problem will spread.
Most itches can be treated effectively with over-the-counter anti-itch creams. But if you've found no relief after a couple days of treating yourself, it's time to call the doctor. You may need something with a little more kick.
Common Pitfalls
It will do you no good to get rid of your itch if you cause yourself other problems. Read labels thoroughly to make sure the cream won't interact with any medications you're taking.
Use antihistamine creams with caution. Overuse can cause you to become allergic to oral antihistamine cold treatments. Also, though they're very effective, be careful with hydrocortisone creams. Try to avoid using these creams on sensitive skin areas, like the face, eyelids and genitals. Don't use on large skin areas and only use them for a short time. If you don't find quick relief, give your doctor a call.
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