Relief from itchy skin
Itching is an irritant feeling that makes you feel like scratching your skin. At times it may seem painful, but it is different. Often you feel itching in an area of your body, but sometimes you may feel itching anywhere. In addition to itching, you may also experience skin rash or hives.
Everybody gets itchy sometimes. If the itch lasts longer than six weeks, it is considered permanent and can be life-threatening. There are a lot of causes for skin itching. It may be the result of skin problems such as eczema, shingles, rashes or psoriasis, or a sign of infectious disease such as scabies or ringworm.
Follow these dermatologist tips to get rid of itchy skin.
- Apply a damp, cold cloth or icy water on the itchy area. Do it for about 5 to 10 minutes or until the itching goes away.
- Have a glass of oatmeal. It is especially soothing for blisters or skin lesions caused by chicken pox, rashes, poison ivy, or sunburn.
- Keep your pores and skin moisturized. Always choose a moisturizer with no additives, perfumes, or scents.
- Use a local anesthetic with pramoxine.
- Use a supplementary conditioner with menthol or calamine. The moisturizer can be refrigerated for a refreshing effect.
Ignore scratching the skin during treatment, which may irritate the skin and increase the risk of skin infections. Measures should be taken to protect your skin against irritation.
To avoid itching, dermatologists recommend taking the following steps:
1. Have a hot bath. Try to limit the bath time or shower time to 10 minutes.
2. Always use perfume-free lotions, soaps, and cleaners to minimize irritation.
3. Apply the product as instructed by the dermatologist before moisturizing. Then apply a moisturizer throughout your skin.
4. Use loose-fitting cotton clothing. Wool and other coarse tissues can irritate your skin’s pores and cause severe itching.
5. Prevent sudden temperature changes. Keep a very fresh and neutral environment in your house. If you have dryness and eczema, use a moisturizer during the winter.
6. Lessen stress, as stress can worsen your itching.