Have you ever felt very irritated because of itchy skin? Itching can occur due to many factors such as insect bites, allergic reactions, sunlight, skin infections, weather, medications, illness, and even pregnancy or aging. If the skin continues to itch for several weeks or months, you should contact your doctor and get it treated. However, if other symptoms do not appear and the itching is not too severe, you can treat it effectively and easily with home remedies.
Step
Method 1 of 5: Finding an Itch Relief
Step 1. Take a shower or bath in cold water
The exact mechanism by which itching occurs is not clear. However, itching may be relieved when there is an "opponent" (such as scratching). Cold water can easily be used to relieve it.
- Soak or shower in cold water. Since cold temperatures are so effective, showering and letting cold water run over the itchy area can be beneficial. Or, for those who like it, you can also replace it by soaking in cold water for as long as you want.
-
You can also add essential oils that can help soothe and stop irritation to the water. Pour 2-3 drops of essential oil into cold water used for bathing.
- Roman chamomile is a calming, non-inflammatory oil.
- Arabic frankincense (Frankincense / Boswellia frereana) can soothe inflamed skin.
- Lavender can help relieve stress and reduce itching.
- Calendula oil can help reduce itching by increasing skin hydration.
- Avoid the following essential oils as they are known to injure the skin: bay leaf, cinnamon, cloves, citronella, cumin, lemongrass, lemon verbena, oregano, tagetes, and thyme.
Step 2. Make a cold compress
Wet a towel or cloth with cold water and place it over the itchy skin area until the itching subsides. Try doing this technique for 30 minutes. The effect occurs because the wet cloth "softens" the itchy skin and helps remove dead skin in the area.
- You can also apply ice or a packet of frozen nuts to the itchy skin area. However, before placing on the skin, first wrap the ice or packet of nuts with a towel. Apply the compress for 10-20 minutes, and no more.
- Using hot water or hot compresses can make irritation worse.
Step 3. Wet the itchy skin area with sodium bicarbonate solution
Baking soda is a natural antipruritic, which can be used for all types of itching, especially effective in relieving itching caused by bee stings and insect bites.
Pour 120 grams of baking soda in cold water used for bathing. Wet your skin for 30 minutes-1 hour
Step 4. Soak in oatmeal or make an oatmeal paste
Oatmeal has compounds that act as antioxidants, which help soothe and stop skin irritation. It's best to use colloidal oatmeal, but if you don't have one, whole oatmeal or unprocessed oat flour can also be used. To grind it, you can use a food processor or coffee grinder. Effective compounds are more commonly found in unprocessed oats (avenanthramides).
- Pour 180 grams of unprocessed, uncooked oatmeal or oat flour into the water that will be used for soaking. Remember that the water used should be cold or warm, and not hot water because it will make the skin condition worse. Soak for an hour every day until the skin no longer itch.
- Unprocessed and uncooked oat flour can also be mixed with water to make a thick paste. Apply the paste on itchy skin and leave it on for 20-30 minutes.
Step 5. Use aloe vera
Aloe vera contains antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory ingredients. In addition, aloe vera also contains a lot of vitamin E which is useful in treating burns and can help relieve inflammation and itchy skin.
- Fresh aloe vera is the ideal type to use. If you have a whole aloe vera plant, take one of the leaves, cut the skin and apply the mucus on the itchy skin. Let the skin absorb the aloe vera mucus. Alternatively, you can also buy aloe vera gel at a pharmacy or drug store. Look for aloe vera gel that is 100% natural.
- Do not apply aloe vera gel to open wounds, or irritated and reddened skin.
Step 6. Use fresh mint
Research has found that bathing with water mixed with mint leaves and peppermint oil is beneficial for itchy skin. Mint contains anti-inflammatory and anesthetic properties that help reduce and stop itchy skin.
- Boiled mint leaves are even more potent because the boiling process helps remove the oil present in the leaves. Be sure to cool the water first before applying it to the skin with a cloth.
- You can also directly apply a cotton swab soaked in peppermint oil on the itchy skin.
Method 2 of 5: Keeping Your Body Hydrated and Exfoliating
Step 1. Keep the body well hydrated
The most common cause of itchy skin is dry skin. The more you drink water, the more water is absorbed by the skin. It is recommended that you drink at least 6-8 glasses of 240 ml of water every day.
People who are very active or sweat a lot should drink more water
Step 2. Don't shower more than once a day
Use warm or cold water and make sure to apply moisturizer all over your body after showering. Do not shower or bathe for more than 30 minutes.
- Many people don't realize it, but bathing or bathing can actually dry out your skin, especially if you use harsh or chemical-laden soaps. Avoid soaps that contain dyes, fragrances, or alcohol.
- The recommended type of water is warm water because water that is too hot can injure the skin by removing protective oils that help keep the skin moisturized.
Step 3. Apply a high quality moisturizing cream on the skin
Choose a moisturizer that contains as few chemical additives as possible. This will reduce your risk of exposure to chemicals that may be unsuitable for your skin or make the itchy condition worse.
- Avoid products that contain added alcohol or fragrance. Alcohol can dry out the skin and make itchy skin worse. Fragrance, which is often dissolved in alcohol, has the same effect.
- Petroleum jelly is a fragrance-free ingredient and is often useful for moisturizing irritated skin.
- Several studies have found that creams containing omega-3 fatty acids can be useful for reducing the symptoms of eczema (a disease that causes severe itching of the skin).
Step 4. Make your own moisturizer
You can also make your own moisturizing cream. Apply one of these home moisturizers to your face, body, and hands. Let the skin absorb the moisturizer for a few minutes. Then, wipe or rinse off any remaining substances.
- Cream-Avocado-Honey Moisturizer. Combine 3 tablespoons of fresh heavy cream, 1/4 of a fresh avocado, and 1 tablespoon of honey in a blender until the texture is smooth.
- Shea butter moisturizer. Mash 120 grams of shea butter at room temperature with a wooden spoon. Add 2 tablespoons of almond oil or lavender oil (choose your preferred or available). Add 8-10 drops of lavender oil or any scented oil you like (such as lemon, orange, mint, or gardenia). Mix the ingredients with a mixer on high speed until the texture is smooth. Store the moisturizer in a closed glass jar in a cool, dark place.
- Aloe vera-almond oil-chamomile lotion. Mix 120 ml of almond oil and 120 ml of chamomile tea in a mixer. To make the tea, dip 2 chamomile teabags in 120 ml of boiling water for at least 5 minutes. On low speed, slowly add 120 ml of aloe vera gel. Use a spatula to make sure that all the aloe vera gel is evenly mixed. Also make sure that before mixing all the ingredients are at room temperature. Put the finished lotion in a clean jar and store it in the refrigerator. Take and warm a little lotion in your hands, then apply to the skin.
- Coconut oil can also be beneficial in increasing the skin's ability to retain moisture. Apply coconut oil directly on the irritated or itchy skin.
Step 5. Remove the dead skin layer (carefully
). The American Academy of Dermatology recommends seeing a dermatologist and doing a skin evaluation before exfoliating because not all exfoliants are suitable for all skin types. Inappropriate, aggressive or harsh exfoliation can actually damage the skin, increase the risk of inflammation and itching, and exacerbate existing skin conditions. A dermatologist can suggest the frequency and method of exfoliation that can be done based on your skin type. However, some of the following approaches can also be tried:
- Try dry brushing. This technique is a traditional Chinese medicine method that has been proven to remove dead skin cells on the skin's surface and help improve blood circulation. Use a brush that has natural bristles and has a long handle. Rub the brush gently, starting at the feet. For large areas, such as the torso and back, rub the brush in large circular motions. Rub the brush 3-4 times on each area, skin fold and entire body. After that, take a shower, pat dry, and apply moisturizer to the skin. Do not use this method on injured skin.
- Try using a cloth that can remove a layer of dead skin. These fabrics can usually be purchased in a variety of sizes and are made of woven synthetic fibers such as nylon, or natural fibers such as silk or linen. Use this cloth gently all over the body. After that, take a shower, pat dry, and apply moisturizer to the skin.
- Wipe the skin gently and never rub your skin. This can actually make irritation and itching worse.
Method 3 of 5: Making Lifestyle Changes
Step 1. Do not scratch the skin
Although it is difficult to do, as much as possible do not scratch the itchy skin. Scratching can make skin irritation worse because it releases substances such as histamine and other cytokines, which increase and spread itching. In addition, scratching also causes the brain to release chemical messengers that increase the itch. Skin that is injured from scratching can also get infected and cause irritation in the area to become more severe. The long-term effects of scratched skin are changes in skin structure, the appearance of scars, and changes in skin thickness and color.
- If there are areas of skin that feel itchy, use one of the quick remedies above to treat the skin from the outside.
- Keep your nails short. If you often feel itchy at night, try wearing gloves while sleeping.
Step 2. Avoid harsh detergents
Use only unscented detergent; some detergent brands even provide special types of detergents for sensitive skin. Also, rinse all the clothes one more time to remove any remaining detergent residue.
Also consider using cleaning products that are all natural or organic to minimize chemical additives
Step 3. Wear loose clothing made from natural fabric fibers
For example, try to wear 100% pure cotton clothes as often as possible, especially for underwear. Cotton is a natural fabric fiber without chemical additives that does not cause allergies and reduces the risk of irritation and dangerous skin reactions.
- Cotton and linen also allow the skin to breathe, allowing sweat to evaporate and air to flow. Compared to many other types of fabric, cotton is also easier to wash, dry, and care for.
- Other fabrics made from natural fibers are linen, flax, and silk. However, be careful with wool because many people think it will irritate the skin.
Step 4. Avoid personal care products that contain fragrance
Do not use perfumes, soaps, lotions, shampoos, and other care or beauty products that contain fragrances and chemical additives. In many people, these products irritate the skin and make itchy symptoms worse.
- Use a mild soap that contains plant glycerin. These products can be purchased at most pharmacies and supermarkets. Some examples of popular brands selling this type of soap are Clearly Natural, Pears, and Sappo Hill. This type of soap will not make the skin dry and irritated. Glycerol is a non-toxic, odorless, colorless viscous gel that has been used for centuries to moisturize and cleanse the skin.
- Always make sure to rinse the soap off your body and apply moisturizer after using the soap.
Step 5. Use a humidifier
A humidifier will help ensure that the air isn't too dry, so your skin doesn't get dry and itchy.
- If you don't have a humidifier, don't rush to buy one. You can make your own humidifier at home! Keep several bowls of water in the room, out of reach of small children and pets. When the weather is cold, place the bowls near a heat source. Meanwhile, when the weather is hot, place the bowls near the window so that they are exposed to the sun. This will help the water evaporate more efficiently and keep the air moist.
- Make sure that the water in your humidifier (both commercial and homemade) is always full.
- Clean your humidifier regularly according to the product instructions. If not cleaned regularly, a humid environment will encourage the growth of bacteria and fungi.
Step 6. Take supplements
Consult your doctor first before taking or adding any substance to your diet. While vitamins, minerals, and most supplements are generally safe when used as directed, some supplements can cause side effects (especially if you're taking medication). Some of the following supplements may be useful to take (either in pill form or in their natural form):
- Plant polyphenols (flavonoids). Flavonoids such as quercetin and rutin are natural antihistamines that help protect the body from DNA damage. Specific doses for quercetin are 250-500 mg and 500-1000 mg for rutin.
- Vitamin A. Vitamin A is needed for healthy skin. Foods that contain high concentrations of vitamin A are sweet potatoes, beef liver, spinach, fish, milk, eggs, and carrots. However, most people find it difficult to get enough vitamin A from food alone. So, the consumption of supplements can also be considered.
- B vitamins. B vitamins are also important for keeping skin healthy. The easiest way to consume them is to take a B-complex vitamin that contains all the B vitamins. However, B vitamins can also be obtained from beans, fish, and poultry.
- Omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids are important for keeping skin moisturized and helping reduce inflammation. Omega-3 supplements and vitamins can be purchased at supermarkets or pharmacies. Leafy greens, nuts and fatty fish (such as mackerel and salmon) are good sources of omega-3 fatty acids.
Step 7. Reduce stress
Because of its impact on hormones, stress can make itchy skin worse. Consider practicing stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga, and exercise.
Method 4 of 5: Using Itch Remedy for Insect Bites
Step 1. Use calamine lotion
Calamine lotion contains zinc oxide (a type of iron oxide), iron(III) oxide and/or zinc carbonate. This lotion has been used for years to relieve itchy skin caused by a variety of things, including poison ivy, poison oak, poison sumac, sunlight, and insect bites and stings. This lotion can also be used to prevent skin infections that occur if the skin is scratched excessively.
Calamine lotion can be purchased cheaply at pharmacies or drug stores
Step 2. Make an oatmeal poultice
Poultices are a mixture of soft, wet textured ingredients, usually consisting of a mixture of spices and other plant materials or wheat flour. Apply the poultice directly to the skin and to keep it sticking, cover the poultice with a cloth. Grind 90 grams of colloidal oatmeal with a coffee grinder or blender until it becomes a coarse powder. Mix the powder with warm water to form a thick paste. Apply the poultice on the itchy skin area. Leave the poultice on the skin for as long as you feel comfortable and rinse with warm water.
- You can also cover the area with a clean cotton cloth. Wrap the fabric with an elastic bandage or tape.
- Unground oatmeal can also be used, but it will be more difficult to spread evenly.
Step 3. Make a poultice of baking soda
Mix about 60 grams of baking soda and warm water to form a thick paste. Apply the poultice to areas of skin that are itchy from poison ivy, poison oak, poison sumac, sunlight, and insect bites or stings. Leave the poultice on the skin for as long as you feel comfortable and rinse off with warm water.
You can also cover the area with a clean cotton cloth. Wrap the fabric with an elastic bandage or tape
Method 5 of 5: Understanding Itchy Skin
Step 1. Understand why your skin feels itchy
Several specialized nerves carry information about different body feelings (such as itching) to the brain. When stimulated, these nerves release a variety of chemical messengers (called cytokines) that activate nearby nerves. Histamine is an example of a cytokine that causes itching in an allergic reaction. When many other nerves are stimulated, chemical messages attack the brain and make us want to scratch certain parts of the body.
Itching, also known as pruritus, can cause and be accompanied by bumps, reddened skin, and other types of rash. However, in some cases, the skin does not undergo any changes
Step 2. Determine the cause of itchy skin
Itching can be caused by a variety of things, from insect bites, specific skin conditions (such as eczema or psoriasis) to more serious illnesses such as kidney and liver disease. Some of the main causes of itchy skin are:
- Dry skin. One of the most common causes of itchy skin is dry skin. This can be due to environmental factors (such as heating or air conditioning, low humidity, or bathing too often with cleaning agents that can dry out the skin) or a lack of water consumption.
- Skin disease. Eczema (atopic dermatitis) and psoriasis are common skin diseases and usually present with itching, redness and irritation of the skin, bumps, and blisters. Sunburns can also be itchy.
- Viral and fungal infections. Infections such as chickenpox, measles, shingles, and genital and anal herpes can make the body feel very itchy.
- Parasites. Itchy skin can also be caused by head lice and pubic lice.
- Disease. Liver disease is often accompanied by mild to severe pruritus. Symptoms of itchy skin also appear in several other diseases such as blood disorders (anemia due to iron deficiency, polycythemia vera or excess blood disease, etc.), cancer (such as leukemia and lymphoma) and thyroid disease.
- Allergic reactions. Allergic reactions to insect bites, pollen, poisons from plants, cosmetics, grooming products, and foods cause mild to severe itching. Rashes caused by contact dermatitis (rash caused by skin contact with chemicals or allergens) can also be very itchy.
- Incompatibility reaction with the drug. Mild to severe itchy skin reactions are a relatively common side effect of several medications, including antibiotics, antifungal agents, and some pain relievers.
- Nerve disorders. Diseases such as diabetes and multiple sclerosis affect the nerves and can cause an itchy sensation.
- Pregnancy. Itching is often a “side effect” of pregnancy. The itchy areas are usually the abdomen, breasts, thighs, and hands.
Step 3. Check your symptoms
Determine if you only have dry skin or have other skin conditions, such as urticaria or rash, that may be related to an allergic reaction or other illness. Common areas of the body that experience dry skin conditions are the lower legs, abdomen, hands, and thighs. This condition is characterized by the appearance of crusts, itching, and cracks on the skin. It's best to call your doctor if you experience symptoms that may indicate a more serious condition, such as a rash or itching that doesn't go away or is unexplained.
- The rash is characterized by bumps on the skin, changes in skin color, crusts, and blisters. Common causes of rashes are poison ivy, prickly heat, urticaria, and eczema. A non-infectious rash can usually be treated with an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream and the itching can be relieved with an oral antihistamine. However, if you develop an unexplained rash, and have a fever or rash for several days, you should contact your doctor.
- Urticaria is characterized by single or multiple small pink or red spots or bumps on the skin. Urticaria usually indicates an allergic reaction to certain foods, medications, insect bites, pollen, and allergy shots. Other possible causes of urticaria are fungal and bacterial infections, stress, contact with chemicals, sunlight, heat, cold temperatures, and water. For some people, urticaria is not serious. If you suspect that your symptoms are due to an allergy, your doctor can perform an allergy test and prescribe medication (usually an antihistamine).
- If you are itchy and can't breathe, seek medical help immediately as this indicates a severe allergic reaction.
Step 4. Call the doctor
If the itching is widespread, has an unknown cause and or does not resolve within 2-3 days despite trying the medications described above, contact your doctor to determine the cause and the best treatment for you.
- If you have persistent urticaria and/or rash, call your doctor.
- Medical diagnosis always depends on the underlying cause. The main cause of the disease is usually determined based on a physical examination, a careful and thorough examination of the medical record, as well as various laboratory tests and images. In some cases, a small sample of skin may be taken for a biopsy so that the skin can be examined under a microscope. Most itchy skin is caused by dry skin conditions and can be soothed. However, determining the root cause takes time.
Warning
- Even if you want to do this, try not to scratch your skin. Scratching will only further injure that area of the body and can damage the skin.
- Although many cases of itchy skin are caused by allergies and other sensitivities, persistent itching can be a symptom of a serious illness. Symptoms of itching can occur in serious diseases such as liver disease, anemia, kidney failure, diabetes, shingles, and lupus. Therefore, determining the cause and treatment is very important.
