Itchy Causes
There are many causes of itchy skin. It may be the result of a skin condition such as eczema, shingles, hives or psoriasis, or it may be a symptom of an infectious disease such as scabies, lice, or fungus.
How to Cope With Itching
To help soothe itchy skin, you can:
Apply a cool, wet washcloth or gel pack to itchy skin. Do this for about 5 to 10 minutes or until the itching is gone.
Moisturize your skin. Always choose a moisturizer that is free of additives, fragrances, and perfumes.
You can apply cooling agents such as menthol or calamine. You can also place your humidifier in the refrigerator to achieve this cooling effect.
While treating your skin, avoid scratching as it will further irritate your skin and increase your risk of skin infection. It’s also a good idea to take steps to help prevent your skin from itching.
Tips to Prevent Itching
To help prevent itching, you can:
Take a bath with lukewarm water. Try to limit your bath or shower to just 10 minutes.
Always use “unscented” lotions, soaps and detergents to minimize irritation. Also be wary of products labeled “fragrance-free,” as they may have chemicals that can irritate your skin.
Apply medications before moisturizing unless otherwise directed by your dermatologist. Then, apply your moisturizer to all areas of your skin, including the drug-treated areas.
Wear loose, cotton clothing. Wool and other hard-feeling fabrics can irritate your skin and cause intense itching.
Avoid extreme temperature changes. Maintain a relatively cool, neutral humidity environment in your home. If you are prone to dry skin and eczema, use a moisturizer during the winter months.
Reduce stress, as stress can make your itch worse.
