How to Reduce Itching

Itchy skin (pruritus) is an uncomfortable feeling that you can't resist scratching. Itchy skin can have many causes such as rash, allergies (hives) psoriasis and dermatitis. It might also be a symptom of something more serious such as liver disease. There are many ways to reduce the itchiness of irritated skin, but it's also important to treat the underlying causes as well.

Instructions

• 1

  Visit your doctor to ensure the itching is not due to an underlying medical condition.

• 2

  Resist the urge to scratch. If hives or the rash is mild, it may go away on its own. Scratching may make the problem worse.

• 3

  Take cool baths or showers when a rash is present. Hot water can cause hives to return or make your skin itchier because it can dry your skin. Also, bathe with mild soaps that don't contain dyes or perfumes, and rinse the soap off your body completely. You can also sprinkle your bath water with baking soda or uncooked oatmeal. Apply a moisturizer after baths and showers to hydrate your skin.

• 4

  Wear loose-fitting clothes. Tight clothes can cause friction and irritate the area.

• 5

  Use mild, unscented laundry detergent to wash clothes, towels and bedding. Also, give your clothes an extra rinse before taking them from the machine to make sure all soap is gone.

• 6

  Use creams and ointments designed to treat itchy skin. Squeeze a small amount of the cream or ointment onto your fingers and rub it on the irritated are. You can try a nonprescription hydrocortisone cream (containing at least 1 percent hydrocortisone); topical anesthetics such as benzocaine or lidocaine; or menthol, camphor or calamine lotions to temporarily relieve itchy skin. Apply wet dressings (damp cloth or cotton material) to the affected area after applying a medicated cream. The moisture in the dressing will help your skin absorb the cream.

• 7

  Avoid exposure to substances that you may be allergic to, including dust, animal hair or perfumes.

• 8

  Take over-the-counter antihistamines. The Mayo Clinic recommends a nonprescription oral antihistamine containing diphenhydramine, such as Benadryl, to help relieve severe itching. Read the dosage instructions on the package.

• 9

  Ask your doctor about phototherapy. This light therapy exposes your skin to wavelengths of ultraviolet light. It often takes several sessions to control itchy skin. A trained medical professional must perform this therapy.