The American Academy of Dermatology suggest that a good way to relieve itchy skin is to apply a cold, wet cloth or ice pack to the affected area for 5–10 minutes. Cooling helps reduce inflammation that may be contributing to the itch. Another option is to keep moisturizing creams and lotions in the refrigerator.
Chamomile is also very soothing for inflammatory skin issues, such as dry itchy skin, eczema and acne.
Apple cider vinegar is anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, and is an antiseptic, so it targets problems that cause itchy skin such as bacteria and fungus. To treat your skin, get a raw, organic, unfiltered apple cider vinegar and apply it to where your skin itch originates.
Vinegar may rejuvenate and add glow to your skin. It may be used to wash your hair and body to soothe your dry skin. Its antibacterial properties reduce the formation of pimples, acne, and other blemishes. Always dilute the vinegar to avoid burning your skin.
Mix a solution with 1 cup warm water and 1 tablespoon of ACV. Apply the solution to gauze or strips clean cotton fabric and apply it to the skin. Cover the dressing in dry, clean, cotton fabric.
Baking soda to the rescue. It can relieve minor irritation, pain, itching, and redness. Mix up a paste of 3 parts baking soda to 1 part water. Smear it on your skin and leave for 20 minutes before you wash it off.
We tracked down a review article in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (Nov., 2007) suggesting that menthol (an ingredient in Vicks) has been used since antiquity to ease itching. It works by affecting itch receptors in the skin.
There are many possible causes, ranging from eczema and dry skin to bed bugs, fungal infections, liver disease, and anxiety. Itchy skin can be the result of a rash or another skin condition. It can also be a symptom of a more serious condition such as liver disease or kidney failure.
Some common causes are: Allergic reactions to food, insect bites, pollen, and medicines. Skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and dry skin. Irritating chemicals, cosmetics, and other substances.
Circadian rhythm
In the evening, the body releases more heat, and blood flow to the skin increases, which may contribute to nighttime itching. In addition, skin loses water at night, resulting in dryness that can make you itchy.
Hydroxyzine is used in adults and children to relieve itching caused by allergic skin reactions. It is also used alone or with other medications in adults and children to relieve anxiety and tension.
Not only is itch associated with greater anxiety, but stress has also be shown to exacerbate itch, leading to a true itch-anxiety cycle. Many chronic itch patients report that psychological stress is a factor that aggravates their itch.
When it comes to food allergies, peanuts, wheat, eggs, cow's milk, soy and shellfish are among the most common culprits. The itchiness caused by these foods and subsequent scratching can then lead to flare-ups or worsening of dermatitis symptoms.
Sometimes an illness can trigger the nervous system to make the skin itch even when there's nothing there to cause a rash. This can cause skin irritation when a person has been scratching a lot. Causes of this type of itching include stroke, multiple sclerosis, nerve damage, and shingles.
Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, is a mild abrasive, which makes it an excellent exfoliator for your skin. Baking soda can help remove oils when used in a facial wash and can be a beneficial part of your overall skin care routine.
Apple cider vinegar may help reduce itching by lowering inflammation and increasing moisture in the skin, but scientists have not yet confirmed that this is the case. Vinegar can also irritate the skin and it may burn. Speak with a doctor before using it, dilute the vinegar, and do a patch test first.
ACV is generally recommended for those with oily and acne-prone skin. It can be applied as a toner, spot treatment or facial cleanser. Benefits for the skin may include: Balancing skin pH.
"ACV has antibacterial and antifungal properties and can help kill bacteria and yeast on the skin related to conditions like acne, eczema, and dandruff," Gathers explains. ACV's high acidity level may also help some skin conditions, but its high acidity makes it necessary to dilute with water.