Itchy skin
Itchy skin
Itchy skin can be annoying and uncomfortable, but in most cases it isn't a sign of anything serious. Simple home care is usually enough to settle it, and it tends to clear up within a few weeks.
Common Symptoms
⚠️ This symptom list is for educational purposes. Having these symptoms does not mean you have this condition. See a doctor for proper diagnosis.
Medicines Commonly Used
⚠️ These medicines are commonly used for confirmed diagnoses of this condition. This is NOT a recommendation or prescription. Treatment must be determined by your doctor.
No medicines have been linked to this condition yet.
Causes
What causes itchy skin?
There are quite a few possible reasons your skin might feel itchy. Some of the more common ones include:
- Skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, hives, dandruff or lichen planus
- Allergies, for example a reaction to cosmetics, plants or certain foods
- Skin reactions like hives or heat rash
- Parasites or insects living on the skin, such as head lice, pubic lice or scabies
- Bites and stings
- Infections such as chickenpox, ringworm, athlete's foot or vaginal thrush
- Hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause
It is best not to try to work out the cause on your own. If your skin is itchy, it is worth getting it checked properly rather than guessing what might be behind it.
Diagnosis
Your GP will ask about your symptoms, such as what makes the itching worse or whether it comes and goes. They'll also examine your skin to check for any visible signs.
They may prescribe lotions, creams and medications to help ease the itching. What's recommended will depend on what's causing your symptoms.
They may also arrange a blood test to help find out what's behind your itchy skin.
The GP may refer you to a dermatologist, a doctor who specialises in skin problems. They'll examine your symptoms in more detail and may recommend specific treatments.
Treatment
Treatment for itchy skin depends on what's causing it. The right treatment can ease the itching and lower the chance of skin damage from scratching.
Common options for itchy skin include:
- a moisturiser or emollient for dry or flaky skin
- a menthol cream to cool the skin and ease itching
- a mild steroid cream for inflamed patches
- antihistamines for an allergic reaction (not suitable for everyone)
For itching in a hairy area such as the scalp, lotions are available, so you don't need to use sticky creams.
Prevention
Itchy skin usually settles down on its own after a while. In the meantime, there's a lot you can do to ease the itching and stop scratching from damaging your skin further.
What helps
Try patting or tapping the itchy spot instead of scratching it. Holding a cool, damp towel over the area for a few minutes can calm it down quickly. After bathing, apply an unscented moisturising lotion or emollient while the skin is still slightly damp, and switch to a mild, sensitive-skin laundry detergent for your clothes and bedsheets.
Keep your nails clean, short and smooth so that any accidental scratching does less harm, and consider wearing soft cotton gloves at night to protect your skin while you sleep. Choose loose-fitting cotton or silk clothing, and light, breathable bedclothes, so nothing rubs or traps heat against irritated skin. It also helps to bathe less often than usual, and when you do, keep the water cool or lukewarm rather than hot.
What to avoid
Steer clear of tight clothing or rough, irritating fabrics such as wool and certain synthetic materials. Skip perfumed soaps, shower gels and deodorants, since fragrance can make itching worse. And try not to linger too long in the bath or shower, as this can dry out and further irritate your skin.