Itchy skin, or what doctors call pruritus, can be uncomfortable and frustrating. Fortunately, many natural and home remedies can help provide relief. According to the National Eczema Association (NEA), people who frequently experience itchy skin may have difficulty sleeping and may become depressed or anxious. They may also scratch their skin, causing small tears, which are prone to infection.
Itchy skin, or what doctors call pruritus, can be uncomfortable and frustrating. Fortunately, many natural and home remedies can help provide relief. According to the National Eczema Association (NEA), people who frequently experience itchy skin may have difficulty sleeping and may become depressed or anxious. They may also scratch their skin, causing small tears, which are prone to infection.
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Itching Skin Causes:
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Common causes of itchy skin include insect bites, allergies, stress, and skin conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis.
Applying menthol:
Menthol is an essential oil found in plants of the mint family. It has a cooling effect and can help relieve pain and itching. A 2012 study investigated whether peppermint oil, which contains menthol, could effectively treat itchy skin in pregnant women.
Researchers divided the participants into two groups. One group received a bottle of sesame oil infused with a 0.5 percent concentration of peppermint oil. The other group received a bottle containing a combination of sesame and olive oils.
Participants applied the oils to areas of itchy skin twice a day for 2 weeks. Those who used the peppermint-infused oil reported a significant reduction in itch severity compared to those who used the other product. Always dilute essential oils in a carrier oil before applying them to the skin.
Cooling the itch:
The American Academy of Dermatology suggests 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. This will ensure they have a direct cooling effect when a person applies them to the skin.
Wet wrap therapy:
Wet wrap therapy (WWT) involves applying water-soaked fabric wraps made of gauze or surgical netting to areas of itchy skin. These wraps rehydrate and soothe skin while providing a physical barrier that protects against scratching. This treatment can be especially beneficial for children.
WWT may also help the skin to absorb medications, such as topical steroids. Before applying the wraps, gently rub or pat medications on the area, and follow with a generous layer of moisturizer.
The NEA suggests the following steps for applying wet wraps:
Moisten a section of gauze in warm water until it becomes damp.
Wrap the gauze around the itchy area of the skin.
Wrap a dry piece of gauze over the top of the damp one.
Carefully put on soft, cotton pajamas, taking care not to disturb the bandages.
Leave the bandages on for several hours or overnight.
A person can use WWT for a few days to control an intense flare-up of itching. If itching does not subside, it is best to talk to a doctor or dermatologist about extending the therapy or trying an alternative treatment.
Colloidal oatmeal:
Colloidal oatmeal is finely ground oatmeal that a person can dissolve in water. The resulting solution forms a protective barrier on the surface of the skin, which helps to seal in moisture. Colloidal oatmeal can help to relieve dryness and itching. Colloidal oatmeal also has known antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, both of which help to reduce skin irritation.
A small study from 2015 found that colloidal oatmeal reduced scaling, dryness, roughness, and the intensity of itching in healthy females with mild to moderate itching. Colloidal oatmeal is widely available in creams and lotions. Alternatively, a person can add the finely ground powder directly to bathwater.
Apple cider vinegar:
Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid, which people have used for thousands of years as a natural wound disinfectant and antiseptic. According to the National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF), apple cider vinegar may be particularly helpful in relieving an itchy scalp.
The NPF recommends diluting the vinegar in water using a 1-to-1 ratio. Apply the solution to the scalp and let it dry before rinsing it gently with lukewarm water. Vinegar can cause a burning sensation on open wounds. People with cracked and bleeding skin should avoid this treatment. Source: medicalnewstoday.com
