Here are some simple ways you can use to relieve itchy skin without using expensive medicines.
Itchy skin is so much more dreadful than it sounds. If you’ve ever experienced this, you know how frustrating it can be. Itchy skin can be due to several reasons. Sometimes it may be due to dryness of skin or some seasonal allergy that most probably isn’t going to last very long. However, it may be a symptom of a more chronic issue like scabies or even ringworm.
To prevent any serious complications or health problems in the future, it is always better to address the problem when it starts showing symptoms. Therefore never neglect simple health issues like itchy skin and start treatment as soon as possible. If you fear visiting the doctor or don’t have the time to do so, don’t worry! We bring to you some simple home remedies you can try yourself to get soothing results in no time.
How to Relieve Itchy Skin
Using A Wet Cloth or Ice Pack
The first thing you should try whenever feeling itchiness of the skin is cooling that part of your skin. For this purpose, you can use a piece of cloth or towel soaked in freezing water. You can also use an ice pack and place it directly over the problem area. You can continue the process for five to ten minutes or until your skin gets some relief.
Taking an Oatmeal Bath
This is a commonly used technique that helps relieve itchy skin due to diseases like chickenpox or blisters from poison ivy. In fact, an oatmeal bath is beneficial in case of sunburns as well. It helps calm the irritated skin by forming a protective layer on your skin. At the same time, oatmeal helps ease inflammation and cleanses and moisturizes your skin to give you a soothing and relaxing experience.
Apply a Cooling Agent: Menthol
As already mentioned, itchy skin requires some cooling to help give relief. Therefore, another effective way to get this cooling effect is by using menthol. This is an organic substance found in various kinds of mint leaves and has been proven to help treat many mild to moderate itchy skin cases. According to research, the menthol in peppermint oil greatly helps relieve the itchy skin experienced by pregnant women.
If you are purchasing the menthol found at your regular shop, it should have all the directions necessary for your use on the packaging. Nonetheless, some basic instructions include ensuring that this product is not ingested and only used for application on the skin. Also, ensure that the mint oil, being an essential oil, is diluted before applying three to four times a day. Wash your hands after application to avoid getting any product in your eyes.
Apply a Mild Moisturizer
When treating itchiness due to dry skin, ensure that the moisturizer you are using is mild. Mild moisturizers have lesser chemicals in their ingredients list. Another aspect you must pay attention to is the fragrance of such products. Look for moisturizers with a fragrance-free label to ensure that no extra fragrance is included in the medication that could further irritate the skin.
Another important thing to keep in mind is the time of application of your moisturizer. If your dermatologist has prescribed some medicines, please apply your moisturizer after applying for those medicines. Moisturizing afterwards helps your skin better absorb the medicines.
Applying Baking Soda
Baking soda consists of various antifungal properties, which makes it a well-known home remedy for itchy skin. Many research studies also support that baking soda is an effective product for reducing inflammation and other skin-irritating conditions.
Mix a quarter cup of baking soda into your warm water bath. Let your body relax in this water while the baking soda does its magic. If you’re not comfortable with your whole body being exposed to the soda, you can always form a small mixture. Apply this mixture directly to the area where you experience irritation.
Using Apple Cider Vinegar
In the case of an itchy scalp, the use of apple cider vinegar is one of the most widely used home remedies. Due to the acetic acid, it contains, it is very beneficial for disinfecting wounds and rashes. To use this product, all you have to do is dilute it in 1 to 1 ratio water and mix it well. Now apply this solution to your scalp and let it stay till it dries. Once it is dry, you can wash it off with some lukewarm water.
Some Tips to Avoid Itchy Skin
- Avoid showering with hot water. Always make sure that your bathing water should be lukewarm. Especially for those with sensitive skin, this is very beneficial to prevent itchiness and other skin conditions.
- wearing tight clothing made from mixed fabrics, wool, and other synthetic fabrics may irritate your body. Try wearing loose clothing and cotton material outfits to ensure a comfortable and itch-free fit.
- Try not to expose yourself to extreme temperatures. If you tend to get dry skin in the winters, use a humidifier at your home to balance moisture in your environment.
- sometimes taking too much stress can cause itchy skin in some individuals. You need to identify whether the itchy skin is a reaction of your body to the mental and physical stress you are taking. In this case, try addressing the root problem rather than using skin medication and remedies.
FAQs
What is itchy skin a sign of?
Itchy skin may be a sign of various skin conditions, insect bites, or it may even be a symptom of some internal disease.
Can itchy skin be a sign of something serious?
Itchy skin is usually a common condition; however, prolonged skin irritation may be a sign of something as serious as kidney or liver disease.
How can I stop itching at night?
Applying a moisturizer before sleeping at night helps prevent dryness of the skin. You can also turn on a humidifier at night to prevent dry and itchy skin.
Conclusion
Itchy skin can be a real nuisance. Not only can it hamper individuals from performing important work at offices and schools, but many individuals can’t seem to get enough sleep due to the constant irritation. Using these simple home remedies can help you get relief from itchy skin without spending any money on doctor’s appointments or medicine.
However, keep in mind these remedies are not substitutes to actual medicines. Therefore, if even after using home remedies, the symptoms persist or worsen, e.g., they form rashes, sores, or bumps, always consult a dermatologist. At the end of the day, whatever works for you, continue doing it with consistency until your skin completely recovers.
