Itchy Skin - 15 Home Remedies to Soothe Itchy Skin Fast!

Why Does Your Skin Itch? Common Causes

Some hygiene-related issues and medical conditions may lead to skin itching. Some of the common causes of skin itching are described below: 

1. Skin Conditions 

Skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, etc. can lead to severe skin irritation. Some types of skin infections and issues linked with dry skin can also lead to skin itching. So, it is recommended to follow a proper skin hygiene and skincare routine to avoid skin-related conditions and itching. 

2. Skin Allergies 

Allergic reactions due to insect bites, food allergies, pollen, and other reasons may also contribute to skin irritation. The itchiness may also get worse upon your skin’s contact with polluted water, and certain types of chemicals found in detergents and cosmetics. 

Some individuals also feel intense skin itching when their skin is exposed to certain metals such as nickel. These metals are mostly used in imitation jewellery and accessories like belts, wrist bands, etc. 

3. Nerve Disorders 

Pinched nerves, shingles, and some other nerve disorders may also lead to itching in certain areas of your body. This type of itching is not associated with rashes or any other visible marks on your skin. 

4. Medical Conditions & Ageing

Certain medical conditions such as anaemia, kidney disease, liver conditions, and some types of cancer lead to skin itching. As we age, our skin becomes thin, dry, and prone to allergies. As a result, itching can be a common concern as we age. 

5. External factors 

If your skin comes into contact with some plants like poison ivy, it may cause intense itchiness or a burning sensation. Exposure to salt water, chlorine, and other types of minerals found in certain water sources can also result in itching.

15 Quick Relief Home Remedies for Itchy Skin

Now that we have covered most common causes of skin itching, let’s see the best 15 natural remedies for itchy skin: 

1. Essential Oils

Some essential oils such as lavender, peppermint, eucalyptus, etc. possess anti-inflammatory properties. These oils have a cooling effect when applied on the skin. They also provide quick relief from skin irritation or itching. However, as these are concentrated oils, you must apply them with a cold cream or carrier oil. 

2. Cold Cream or Moisturiser 

The itchiness or burning sensation associated with dry skin can be brought down by applying a cold cream or moisturiser on the affected area. It not only heals the dry skin but also reduces the itchiness and you stop scratching yourself! 

3. Calamine Lotion 

Calamine lotion consists of cooling agents that make it a proven itchy skin treatment recommended by most skin specialists. It is natural, safe, and easily available at a chemist's shop. 

4. Keep Your Mind Calm 

At times, thinking too much can cause stress and anxiety which worsens skin allergies and further intensifies the itching sensation. So, avoid these negative thoughts and try to keep your mind calm to manage irritated skin. 

5. Baking Soda 

You can mix ¼ cup in lukewarm water and take a bath. Alternatively, you can mix some baking soda in a little water to give it a paste-like consistency. Then, apply this paste on your itchy body parts. The antifungal properties of baking soda provides instant relief from skin itchiness. 

6. Aloe Vera 

Aloe Vera has natural soothing and cooling properties that can provide instant relief from all types of skin itching or irritation. Use freshly retrieved gel from the Aloe Vera plant or get the chemical-free Aloe Vera gel from a nearby pharmaceutical store. Apply it on the affected area and experience the cooling sensation immediately! 

7. Cold Compress 

Ice packs can offer a quick relief from the irritation caused due to heat. If you don’t have an ice pack, create a cold compress by rolling some ice cubes inside a cloth or towel and apply on the affected area. 

The cold sensation desensitises the irritated part and provides relief from skin inflammation. This is one of the best itchy skin remedies for skin irritation caused due to a skin allergy. 

8. Vinegar 

Mix apple cider vinegar with equal amounts of water. Now, apply this solution on your itchy scalp. Once the solution dries, rinse your scalp using lukewarm water. This is one of the best itching scalp remedies that you will ever find! 

9. Topical OTC Medicines 

Topic creams or OTC (Over The Counter) medicines containing menthol or pramoxine can provide quick relief from skin itchiness or inflammation. 

10. Sandalwood 

Try applying sandalwood paste made by mixing sandalwood powder with water on the affected area. The cooling properties of sandalwood make it one of the best home remedies for itchy skin. 

11. Oatmeal Bath 

The calming properties of colloidal oatmeal soothes skin irritation. However, for effective results, soak your body into the oatmeal mixed bathwater for at least 15 minutes. 

12. Epsom Salt 

Epsom salt relaxes your mind when added to bathwater. Its soothing properties also have a relaxing effect on your body and can reduce the skin irritation to some extent. 

Take two small cups of epsom salt and add it to a bathtub filled with water. Immerse your body in this water and experience the soothing effects of epsom salt on your body. However, use only organic epsom salt that does not contain any artificial fragrances or additives. 

13. Cold Shower 

If heat is the reason behind your skin itchiness, a cold shower may be as effective as any other natural remedies of itchy skin. Just stand beneath a cold shower and let the water cool down your body and open up your skin pores to relax your skin! 

The clogged pores cause skin rashes and are mainly responsible for skin irritation. Dry your body with a soft, dry, and clean towel immediately as leaving the skin damp is not recommended. 

14. Neem Powder 

Neem powder contains powerful antifungal and antibacterial properties. Mix it with water and apply the paste on the affected areas. The anti-inflammatory properties of neem powder will soothe your skin instantly.

15.  Talcum Powder or Deodorant 

If your skin often feels itchy due to sweat, try applying talcum powder or a roll-on deodorant on the sweaty areas like underarms. It will keep your skin free from sweat and infection that is the root-cause of itchiness. 

Keep your skin dry as much as possible as heat may worsen the inflammation and discomfort. Use a fan or air conditioner if the skin itchiness is caused due to heat or inflammation. If your skin has become dry due to cold weather, using a humidifier may help.

Conclusion

We hope that you now have a fair bit of idea about the itchy skin rash medicines that you can try at home. However, if the itching worsens with time, it is always better to seek professional help. Get help from an expert dermatologist at your nearest super-specialty hospital to get effective treatment for itchy skin!

FAQs

1. Which is the quickest way to stop itching?

Take a cold shower and dry your body nicely after the shower. Now, apply a cold cream on the affected areas. Avoid scratching as much as you can and cut your nails properly to avoid direct contact with your itchy skin. 

2. Which drink can stop itching?

Drinking oatmeal can soothe the itchiness. It is especially recommended for people who have dry and sensitive skin. It is a dairy-free milk suitable for vegans which is also good for your overall skin health. 

3. Can coconut oil be used to treat itchy skin?

Yes, coconut oil is also one of the best natural remedies for itchy skin. Its calming and antibacterial properties treat skin infection and reduce skin itchiness naturally.

4. Which nutritional deficiency can cause skin irritation?

Deficiencies related to vitamin A, B12, and D and iron deficiency can lead to skin irritation. 

5. Which oils are good for skin allergies?

Coconut, tea tree, lavender, and chamomile oils are known for their anti-inflammatory properties that soothe skin allergies.

Citations:

Joy, N. (2022). Calamine lotion. Journal of Skin and Sexually Transmitted Diseases, 4(1), 83–86. https://doi.org/10.25259/JSSTD_77_2021

Itchy skin (pruritus): Causes, treatment, and home remedies. (2020, November 26). Www.medicalnewstoday.com. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/311473

Wong, C. Y., & Chu, D. H. (2021). Cutaneous signs of nutritional disorders. International Journal of Women’s Dermatology, 7(5). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijwd.2021.09.003