Allergic reaction Skin irritation Illness
The best way to stop the itch is to figure out what caused it. Then you can find the right treatment(s).
This article will walk you through the causes of itchiness and how to relieve them with medication or home remedies.
Eyes Nose Throat Face Skin
A skin itch may be all over (generalized) or in one location (localized).
The common cold Seasonal allergies Food allergies or medication allergies Rashes Eczema Dry skin Pregnancy Parasites (head lice, scabies) Insect bites and stings Contact with irritants (chemicals, poison ivy) Chronic spontaneous urticaria (hives), which is frequent hives without a specific trigger
Antihistamines (allergy pills): Benadryl (diphenhydramine), Zyrtec (cetirizine), Claritin (loratadine), Clarinex (desloratadine), Allegra (fexofenadine). Anti-itch creams: Topical corticosteroids may be helpful for small itchy areas. like those from bug bites. Antibiotics: For bacterial skin infections. may require antibiotics.
If itching is caused by a medication you take, ask your healthcare provider about different options.
Cold compressesLukewarm bathsLotions or moisturizersMild soapOatmeal bath
If you itch because of dry skin, moisturizing with a cream or petroleum-based moisturizer may bring relief.
Things to avoid if you have itchy skin are:
Irritating fabrics, especially wool and polyester High heat Humidity Long hot baths, which can dry your skin Bubble baths Powders Cornstarch Scratching
It may be hard not to scratch. But that can irritate your skin more. It may also spread the problem and put you at risk of infection.
You may need your healthcare provider to figure it out for sure. Medications can relieve an itch from some causes. Home remedies can help, too.
Avoid things that irritate your skin. Try not to scratch.
A Word From Verywell
An itch that won’t go away can be really aggravating. Don’t start trying different remedies right away, though. Some might make it worse.
Instead, take the time to figure out the cause and the correct treatments. That’s the best way to get relief.
For mild itching, use calamine lotion. For a more intense itch, use hydrocortisone cream. Oral antihistamines can also help.
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