Although itchy skin is a condition that is mild and rarely an indicator of something more serious (such as cancer), it can disrupt your daily activities and concentration.
The following home remedies might help you relieve itchy skin:
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil contains essential fatty acids that can help keep your skin hydrated by protecting it from the damaging effects of the environment.
It can be added to your diet or applied directly to your skin as a moisturiser.
Petroleum Jelly
Household irritants can cause itchiness for those who are sensitive to it. Pure petroleum jelly has only one ingredient, hence can be a gentle alternative for individuals with sensitive skin.
Abrasive household products may break skin’s protective barrier while some moisturisers can worsen the already weakened area, leading to skin irritation.
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends petroleum jelly as a dry skin soother for all areas of the body. It is also safe to apply as often as one wishes.
Oatmeal
Oatmeal contains chemicals called avenanthramides that fight inflammation and redness. It is particularly helpful in soothing itchiness triggered by poison ivy, eczema, chicken pox, sunburn and allergies.
For best result, take an oatmeal bath by grinding oatmeal in a blender or food processor and sprinkling it into the tub as the water runs. Then soak for at least 15 or 20 minutes.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is excellent for treating a number of skin ailments due to its antibacterial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory and emollient properties.
Fresh aloe vera is known to be very soothing to the skin. If fresh aloe vera gel unavailable, you can buy a tube of aloe vera gel in a drug store.
Cold Compress
A cold compress can be helpful in soothing itchy skin caused by heat, insect bites, poison ivy and shingles.
It helps ease swelling, inflammation and itching, and is particularly useful to treat sunburn after blisters have developed.
Avoid applying the ice directly on the skin. Instead, place ice cubes in a sealed plastic bag or an ice pack and dab this over the affected area for a few minutes.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Raw and organic apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid that helps counter skin infections or skin allergies that could be causing itchiness or worsening it. Apple cider vinegar can be used directly to the skin or diluted with water before applying on the skin. If this irritates your skin, discontinue usage.
Chamomile
Chamomile relieves itching, soothes the skin, reduces inflammation and helps skin heal thanks to its anti-irritant and anti-inflammatory properties. It also has antibacterial, anti-fungal and antiviral effects.
Soak a cloth in chamomile tea and place it on the affected area as a compress and repeat two or three times a day.
You can also dilute it with two teaspoons of coconut oil or other carrier oils before applying to skin.
Neem
Due to its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anti-irritant, antiviral, anti-fungal and antibacterial properties, neem is very useful in alleviating a number of skin ailments.
These include eczema, rashes, acne, scabies, psoriasis and various infections.
Neem also contains antioxidants that prevent ageing and revitalises skin cells. You can use neem leaf extract, neem oil, soap, cream or other neem products to reap its benefits.
Calendula
Calendula has anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, antibacterial and antiviral properties. This makes it a potential treatment to soothe rashes, skin irritations, eczema, dry skin, bruises and wounds.
Apply calendula oil on the affected area and leave it on for a few hours. Repeat at least twice daily until you see improvements. Add some calendula oil to bath water and soak in it for 15 minutes.
Olive oil
Olive oil helps in healing and promotes skin renewal given it is packed with vitamin E and antioxidants. It also soothes the skin and reduces itching.
Rub extra-virgin olive oil or a combination of olive oil and essential oil to your skin to relieve dry skin. Use only twice weekly and do not overdo it.
This article first appeared in hellodoktor.com and was reviewed by the Hello Doktor Medical Panel. The Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.