Itchy skin occurs with extreme frequency, whether from an allergy or stress that causes itchy hives or from a mosquito bite, poison ivy, heat rash or simple irritation. Although many of these causes will resolve in a few days on their own, home remedies may hasten recovery and provide immediate relief.
Oatmeal
Oatmeal baths or skin applications (in cream or powder forms) are successful at reducing itch and soothing skin. If you are suffering from itchy skin you can use prepared packets of colloidal oatmeal, which provides a smooth coating on your skin when added to a warm bath. Alternatively, regular oats can be ground into fine particles in a food processor or blender to replicate manufactured oatmeal products. Add 2 to 3 cups of this to your bath water. Oatmeal baths can be used up to three times daily. Oatmeal cream products are available over the counter at drugstores and can be used for itch relief on small areas, such as insect bites.
Olive Oil
Itchy skin is commonly irritated, red and dry. Skin may even crack in severe cases. Thick products like petroleum jelly may be used to soothe and soften the dry and itchy skin, but this type of ointment may be sticky or leave a barrier residue on the skin that interferes with your activities. Pure olive oil from your kitchen pantry can provide similar skin protection and softening without the stickiness.
Aloe Vera Gel
The aloe vera plant contains compounds that reduce inflammation and irritation. Although better known for sunburn relief, the aloe vera plant effects are also successful at soothing other skin irritations. Its cooling effect decreases itch, and aloe vera’s anti-inflammatory effects can hasten healing of the itchy area. Fresh gel squeezed directly from a slice of the aloe vera plant is most effective because the beneficial compounds lose potency when combined with preservatives in commercial products.
