Home Remedies to Stop Itchy Skin

When your skin is dry and itchy, it can feel like you will never find relief. Fortunately, there are several things that you can do at home to help relieve itchy skin. There are also some preventative measures you can take to prevent yourself from getting itchy skin or from further irritating existing itchy skin.

Bathing

Taking a cool bath or applying cool, wet washcloths to the skin can help alleviate itching at home. You can also prevent itching by using hypoallergenic products when you bathe, including shampoo and conditioner. Also make sure that you rinse any products completely off your body to prevent residue from causing itch.

Clothes

Wearing looser clothing with a smooth weave in the fabric can help alleviate itchy skin. Natural fibers, such as cotton, will allow air to circulate around the body and may also help prevent itching. When you wash your clothing, make sure that you are using a mild detergent without dyes or perfumes to help prevent an itchy reaction.

Skin Care

Dead skin cells can encourage bacterial and fungal growth, which can cause itchy skin. Exfoliating can help reduce itch by removing dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. Using a mild lotion or body oil to moisturize the skin can reduce itchiness related to dry skin.

Avoiding Irritants

Avoiding things that irritate your skin can help reduce itchiness. You may find that certain perfumes, lotions or deodorants cause you to itch. Some people have allergic reactions to the metals in jewelry, so avoid wearing any to see if that reduces itchiness. Staying indoors when there is a high pollen count may also help reduce itchiness.

Warning

If you experience constant itching without relief, or have a rash, sore or swelling on the skin that is itchy, consult your doctor. Itchy skin can be a symptom of a serious disease or infection and you may need medical attention to correct the issue.

Resources

• National Library of Medicine