Itchy skin, also called pruritis, results from skin irritation that creates the urge to scratch, according to the Mayo Clinic. The Merck Manual states that while scratching temporarily subsides the itch, it then leads to more itching by further aggravating the skin irritation. Scratching creates breaks in the skin and predisposes the skin to infection. Pruritis can be caused by many factors such as skin diseases and disorders, internal diseases such as kidney or liver disease, pregnancy, lack of moisture or cold weather exposure and insect bites. Treating the underlying condition will permanently halt itching; however, there are natural ways to relieve irritated skin.
Bathe It Away
A warm bath can be relaxing as well relieving for an annoying itch. The “1801 Home Remedies” book by Reader’s Digest suggests adding baking soda, oatmeal or vinegar to your bath water. A soothing soak can be made by sprinkling a half to a full cup of baking soda or colloidal oatmeal under running water. An oatmeal bath can be made by putting a cup of regular oatmeal in a nylon stocking and dropping the sack into bath water if a colloidal oatmeal product is not available. Vinegar, on the other hand, relieves itching by acidifying the skin. Adding two cups of vinegar to cool bath water makes an effective soak.
Moisturize
According to the Merck Manual, frequent bathing or showering, especially with hot water, can deplete the skin’s natural protective oils, thus leaving the skin dry. Dry skin commonly causes itching therefore keeping it moist is the first step to relieve the itch. Drinking plenty of water will help hydrate skin from the inside, while applying moisturizer will replenish skin from the outside. The Merck Manual suggests applying lotion that is fragrance-free and dye-free because additives can further aggravate skin irritation. Moisturizing the skin with creams should follow right after bathing, as this action helps lock in moisture. Central air units inside have a drying effect on the indoor atmosphere, leaving skin dehydrated. Humidifying the air inside helps retain some of the skin’s natural moisture.
Apply Compresses
Itchy skin frequently accompanies skin irritation and inflammation. Applying cool wet compresses to the affected area will cool the skin and decrease some of the inflammation associated with itching, according to the Mayo Clinic. The Reader’s Digest also suggests soaking a washcloth in ice-cold milk and applying the cloth to the affected area as many times as needed to relieve itching. “The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Healing Remedies” states applying verbena or thyme tea to an itchy area will have a soothing and cooling effect as well.
