How to Get Rid Itchy Skin?

Itchy skin can be very unpleasant. The worst is when itchy skin interrupts your sleep. 

Insect bites, allergies, stress, and skin diseases such as eczema and psoriasis are some of the common reasons for itchy skin.  

Finding a relief to itchy skin may alleviate discomfort due to itchy skin. Some of the ways to relieve itchy skin as follows:

• Applying itchy reliever cream or oil contains menthol 

To relieve itchiness, use itchy reliever cream or oil containing menthol. It helps to ease pain and itchiness with its cooling effect. 

A 2012 study Trusted Source looked into the efficacy of peppermint oil, which contains menthol, in treating itchy skin among expectant mothers.  

The individuals were split into two groups by the researchers. One group was given a bottle of sesame oil that had been spiked with peppermint oil at a 0.5 percent concentration. The container that was given to the opposing group included a mixture of sesame and olive oils.

When compared to those who used the alternative product, individuals with the peppermint-infused oil reported a significant decrease in the severity of their itchiness. 

• Cooling the itch 

The American Academy of Dermatology recommended applying an ice pack or cold, wet towel to the affected region for 5 to 10 minutes. The cooling effects will help to soothe irritated skin. 

Using moisturizing lotions, calamine lotions and  itchy creams stored in the fridge may help to alleviate the itchiness. The direct cooling impact from the chill lotions and creams will relieve your itchiness faster. 

• Wet wrap therapy 

Wet wrap therapy (WWT) involves wrapping irritated skin in a wet gauze or surgical netting. The wraps provide a physical barrier that prevents scratching at the same time rehydrating and soothing the skin. Children may benefit most from this treatment. 

Additionally, WWT may facilitate the absorption of drugs such as topical steroids. Applying treatment cream contains drugs to the region  before covering with a wrap.

The steps listed below are recommended by the NEA for applying wet wraps: 

1. Use warm water to damp a piece of gauze until it is moist. 
2. Wrap the gauze on affected skin. 
3. Cover the wet gauze with a piece of dry gauze. 
4. Leave the cover overnight or for several hours.
5. A heavy itching flare-up can be managed for a few days with WWT. Consult a physician or dermatologist about continuing the therapy or considering other treatment options if the itching does not goes away. 

• Using  oatmeal to relieve itch

Oatmeal can be used to relieve itch by using powdered oat, which turns into a paste and applied on itchy skin. The powdered oat will moisturize the skin and relieve itchiness.

The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of oatmeal is able to relieve skin itchiness and inflammation. The skin scaling, dryness and roughness can be minimized by oatmeal powder.

• Apple cider vinegar 

Acetic acid in apple cider vinegar, has been used for thousands of years as a natural antibacterial and disinfectant for wounds. This can be useful to prevent skin infection on wounds due to scratching. 

Apple cider vinegar can be useful to overcome itchiness due to various skin conditions, such as itchy scalp, eczema, psoriasis and contact dermatitis. The mild acidity of apple cider vinegar can relieve itchiness and skin discomfort. 

Before using apple cider vinegar, be sure to dilute it in water to avoid skin burning. Using apple cider vinegar in a warm bath can be useful to keep your skin moisturized. 

• Moisturizing your skin

Creams and lotions that moisturize your skin may aid in hydrating the epidermis. Moisturizer is often used to treat skin diseases due to skin dryness and irritation. 

Humectants and emollients are components of an excellent moisturizer. Emollients create a barrier across the skin’s surface to assist keep moisture in while humectants suck water into the skin. 

• Baking soda 

Research suggests that baking soda is an excellent treatment for a variety of fungal skin problems, many of which can cause itching, due to its antifungal qualities. 

To use baking soda, dilute 1/4 cup of baking soda in a warm bath. The baking soda can also be combined with a small amount of water to create a paste that can be applied directly to itchy regions. Applying moisturizers immediately after a bath or shower is recommended to retain skin moisture. 

• Avoiding irritants 

The American Academy of Dermatology advises patients to stay away from potential irritants as they may aggravate itching. Some of the potential irritants are: 

1. Hot water
2. Sudden temperature and humidity changes 
3. Fragrances in skincare product 
4. Wool and synthetic wool 
5. Stress