Skin itch remedies
Having itchy skin can be very frustrating and annoying and finding a remedy that works can be a challenge. Before trying to decide what type of remedy you need for your itchy skin we must first determine what is causing the itch in the first place.
There are several different skin itch remedies but there are also several different causes for itching skin. Some of those causes can include eczema, psoriasis, chicken pox, bug bites, poison ivy, dry skin, allergic reactions, or rashes. Depending on what is causing your itchy skin will determine which remedy is the right one for you.
If you have developed a rash that is itchy you should have it checked out by a doctor. Rashes can be caused by fungal infections, such as ringworm, or by allergic reactions to medications. They can also be caused by reactions to a contact allergy, an airborne allergy, food allergy, psoriasis or eczema. All of these can be serious and should be looked at by a medical professional. These conditions may require other medications such as antibiotics or cortisone shots to help ease the symptoms.
For those that are suffering from the typical dry skin itch, you can do a few things to help your skin feel better. For starters, stop taking hot showers or baths. The hot water dries out the skin very quickly. Also avoid using harsh soaps. Stick to moisturizing body washes or baby washes that are hypo-allergenic, and are not drying. A lot of times changing soaps and bathing habits can help the condition tremendously. While bathing, use a loofah to rid the body of old dead skin cells. Do not scrub the skin hard, just enough to clean the skin thoroughly. Once you step out of the shower, pat your skin dry with a towel. Avoid rubbing the skin with the towel and making the skin more sensitive. Within the first three minutes of stepping out of the shower you should apply a moisturizer to the skin. By applying the moisturizer so quickly, you will help lock in the water that the skin has absorbed while bathing. Moisturizing creams do not actually supply your skin with more moisture but rather locks in the moisture that the body has naturally. Try using creams, ointments or oils instead of lotions since lotions do not offer the same level of protection.
If a bug bite or poison ivy is the reason for your itchy skin, you can try to use calamine lotion or a hydrocortisone cream on the effected area. The most important thing to remember is to avoid scratching the skin. Although an itch can become so intense you feel you must scratch it, you can cause a secondary infection once the skin has been opened. Often applying alcohol to a bug bite or poison ivy can help stop the itching. Be sure to wash hands with soap and warm water immediately after touching the effected area to avoid spreading an infection. If you feel that you must scratch the area, try using a washcloth instead of your hands or finger nails. A washcloth is gentler and less likely to open the skin and cause a secondary infection. If you have scratched the surface of the effected skin you should apply an antibacterial ointment to prevent any further infections from occurring.
Be sure to see your doctor if the problem does not clear up in a matter of a few days. Whether it is a bug bite, an allergic reaction or just dry skin, your doctor is always the best person to consult with when it comes to finding a solution for your skin problem.
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