How to Relieve Itchy Skin with Home Remedies

Have you ever experienced an uncontrollable itching sensation on your skin? There are numerous causes of itching, including insect bites, allergic reactions, sunburn, skin infections, dry and cold weather, medications, health conditions, and even pregnancy or aging. While it's important to consult a doctor if the itching persists for weeks or months, you can manage milder cases effectively at home with some simple remedies.

Take a Cold Shower or Bath. The exact mechanisms behind itching are still not fully understood, but it’s believed that cooling the skin can help relieve the discomfort. A cold shower or bath can soothe itching on your skin.

• Taking a cold shower or sitting in a cold bath can be quite effective. The cold temperature helps reduce the sensation of itching. You can also try soaking in a tub filled with cold water for as long as you can tolerate.
• You can also add a few drops of soothing essential oils to your bath water to calm the skin and prevent further irritation. Consider adding 2-3 drops of essential oil to the cold water.
• Roman chamomile is known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Frankincense (Boswellia frereana) helps to calm irritated skin.
• Lavender oil can be relaxing and alleviate itching.
• Calendula oil can help reduce itching by increasing skin moisture.
• Avoid essential oils that may irritate the skin, such as bay laurel, cinnamon, clove, lemongrass, Egyptian fennel, citronella, marjoram, marigold, and thyme.

Apply a Cold Compress. Soak a cloth or piece of fabric in cold water and place it on the itchy area until the discomfort subsides. Try leaving it on for around 30 minutes. The cooling effect helps soften the irritated skin and aids in shedding dead skin cells.

• You can also use ice packs or frozen bean bags, but make sure to wrap them in a cloth before applying to the skin. Apply these cold items for 10-20 minutes, ensuring you don't exceed that time.
• Applying hot water or compresses could worsen the irritation.

Soak the Itchy Skin in a Baking Soda Solution. Baking soda is a natural remedy for itching and is especially effective for insect stings or bites.

• Add one cup of baking soda to your cold bath water. Soak for about 30 minutes to an hour.

Oatmeal Bath or Oatmeal Paste Application. Oatmeal contains antioxidant compounds that help soothe the skin and relieve itching. It’s best to use colloidal oatmeal, but if you don’t have it, regular whole oats or unprocessed oat flour can work too. You can grind whole oats with a food processor or coffee grinder. The unprocessed oats contain more beneficial compounds.

• Add two cups of unprocessed oatmeal to your bath. Ensure the water is lukewarm or cool, as hot water can damage the skin further. Soak for about one hour daily until the itching subsides.
• You can also make a paste by mixing unprocessed oatmeal with water and apply it to the itchy skin for 20-30 minutes.

Apply Aloe Vera to the Itchy Skin. Aloe vera contains antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. It’s also rich in vitamin E, which is highly effective for treating burns and reducing swelling and itching.

• Fresh aloe vera is ideal! If you have an aloe plant, cut a stalk and apply the gel directly to the itchy skin. Let it absorb and soothe the skin. If you don't have fresh aloe, you can purchase 100% natural aloe vera gel at a pharmacy.
• Avoid applying aloe vera to open wounds or irritated skin.

Use Fresh Mint Leaves. Studies suggest that bathing in water infused with mint leaves and peppermint oil can be beneficial for itchy skin. Mint contains anti-inflammatory and numbing compounds that help alleviate and stop the itching.

• Soaking mint leaves in hot water works even better as it allows the peppermint oil to infuse into the water. Make sure the water cools down before using a cloth to apply the solution to the skin.
• You can also apply peppermint essential oil directly to the itchy area using a clean cotton ball.

Stay Hydrated. One of the most common causes of itching is dry skin. The more water you drink, the more your skin will be able to absorb. It’s recommended to drink at least six to eight cups of water daily.

• If you are active or sweating a lot, you should drink more water.

Avoid Bathing More Than Once a Day. Use lukewarm or cool water, and make sure to moisturize your skin after every bath. Don’t soak in a tub or stay under the shower for longer than 30 minutes.

• Many people don’t realize that bathing can actually dry out the skin, especially when using harsh soaps. Avoid soaps with dyes, fragrances, or alcohol.
• It’s best to use lukewarm water since hot water can strip away the oils that protect and moisturize the skin.

Apply a High-Quality Moisturizer. Choose a moisturizer with minimal chemical ingredients to reduce the risk of irritating your skin or worsening itching.

• Avoid products that contain alcohol or artificial fragrances. Alcohol can dry out the skin and worsen itching. Fragrance chemicals, often dissolved in alcohol, have a similar effect.
• Petroleum jelly is fragrance-free and can be very effective in moisturizing irritated skin.
• Research suggests that creams containing omega-3 fatty acids can help alleviate symptoms of eczema, a condition that causes intense itching.

Make Your Own Moisturizer at Home. You can also create your own moisturizer at home. Apply any of the following homemade moisturizers to your face, body, and hands. Let the moisturizer absorb for a few minutes, then wipe or wash off.

• Avocado-Honey Moisturizer – Mix 3 tablespoons of heavy cream, 1/4 of a fresh avocado, and 1 tablespoon of honey. Blend until smooth.
• Shea Butter Moisturizer – Take 120g of shea butter at room temperature and mash it with a wooden spoon. Add 2 tablespoons of almond oil or olive oil (whichever you prefer or have on hand). Add 8-10 drops of lavender essential oil or any fragrance you like (e.g., lemon, orange, mint, or jasmine). Use a hand mixer to blend for 2-4 minutes until smooth. Store in an airtight jar in a cool, dark place.
• Aloe Vera – Almond Oil – Chamomile Hydrating Lotion – Mix 1/2 cup (120ml) of almond oil and 1/2 cup of chamomile tea (brew by steeping 2 tea bags in 1/2 cup of boiling water for at least 5 minutes). Gradually add 1 cup (240ml) of aloe vera gel and blend until smooth. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. Store in a clean jar in the refrigerator. Warm a small amount in your hands before applying to the skin.
• Coconut oil is also beneficial for improving moisture retention. Apply directly to the itchy or irritated skin.

Skin Peeling (Be Cautious!) The American Dermatology Institute recommends consulting with a dermatologist before attempting any skin peeling as not all methods suit every skin type. Improper or aggressive peeling techniques, or abrasive ones, can damage the skin, increasing the risk of irritation, itching, and worsening the existing condition. The frequency and method of peeling should be determined based on your skin type, and a dermatologist can provide personalized advice. However, there are a few methods you can try:

• Dry brushing. This traditional Chinese therapy has been proven to help remove dead skin cells and improve blood circulation. Use a natural bristle brush with a long handle, starting from the feet and brushing in long, gentle strokes. Make circular motions for wider areas like the torso or back. Repeat brushing 3-4 times per section and cover the entire body. Afterward, shower and pat your skin dry, then apply moisturizer. Avoid dry brushing over any damaged skin.
• Using a peeling cloth. These cloths are often made of finely woven synthetic fibers like nylon, but options made from natural fibers like silk or flax are also available. Gently use the cloth across your body. These cloths come in various sizes. Once done, shower, pat your skin dry, and apply moisturizer.
• Never scrub your skin. This action can actually make your skin itch and become more irritated. Instead, gently rub your skin with light strokes.

Avoid Scratching. Though easier said than done, it's important to resist the urge to scratch. Scratching can worsen skin irritation by releasing chemicals like histamines and cytokines that amplify itching. Additionally, scratching triggers your brain to release a chemical signal that intensifies the itch. If you scratch enough to cause cuts, it could lead to infections and further irritation. Over time, frequent scratching can alter the skin's structure, leading to scarring, thickening (lichenification), and changes in pigmentation (hyperpigmentation).

• If itching occurs, try one of the above-mentioned remedies to address the affected area directly.
• Keep your nails trimmed, and if itching strikes at night, consider wearing gloves to avoid scratching while you sleep.

Avoid Harsh Detergents. Use unscented laundry detergents, as some brands offer products specifically designed for sensitive skin. Additionally, when washing clothes, consider a second rinse to remove any detergent residue.

• You might also opt for natural or organic detergents that contain minimal chemicals.

Wear Loose-Fitting Clothes Made of Natural Fabrics. Opt for 100% cotton clothing whenever possible, especially for undergarments. Cotton is a natural fiber that is hypoallergenic and free of added chemicals, reducing the risk of irritation and allergic reactions. Cotton and linen fabrics also allow your skin to breathe, helping sweat evaporate and escape through your clothes. Additionally, cotton is easy to wash, dry, and more durable than many other fabrics.

• Other natural fibers include linen, hemp, and silk. However, be cautious with wool, as many people find it irritating rather than soothing.

Avoid Fragranced Body Care Products. Steer clear of perfumes, soaps, lotions, shampoos, and any other body care or beauty products that contain fragrances or additives. Many individuals find that these products irritate the skin and worsen itching symptoms.

• Use a gentle soap made from vegetable glycerin—these are available at most pharmacies and health food stores. Popular brands include Clearly Natural, Pears, and Sappo Hill. These soaps are non-irritating and won't dry out the skin. Glycerin is a colorless, odorless, non-toxic gel that has been used for centuries to cleanse and moisturize the skin.
• Always ensure you rinse the soap off completely and apply a moisturizing cream afterward.

Use a Humidifier. A humidifier helps maintain the moisture level in the air, preventing it from becoming too dry, which can cause skin to dry out and itch.

• If you don't own a humidifier, there's no need to rush out and buy one. You can make your own at home! Place bowls of water around the room, making sure they are out of reach of children and pets. In colder months, position them near a heat source. In warmer months, place them near windows or in sunny spots. This will help the water evaporate and humidify the air.
• Check your humidifier, whether store-bought or homemade, to ensure it always has enough water.
• Regularly clean your humidifier according to the manufacturer's instructions. A humid environment can encourage bacteria and mold growth if it isn't cleaned frequently.

Consider Supplements and /or Dietary Additions. Consult with a doctor before adding any supplements or substances to your diet. While vitamins, minerals, and most supplements are generally safe when used as directed, some may cause side effects, especially if you're taking other medications. Here are some supplements you might consider taking or incorporating into your diet:

• Plant Polyphenols (Flavonoids). Flavonoid compounds like quercetin and rutin act as natural antihistamines and help prevent DNA damage. The typical dosage for quercetin is 250-500mg, and for rutin, it's 500-1000mg.
• Vitamin A. Vitamin A is essential for healthy skin and is abundant in sweet potatoes, beef liver, spinach, fish, milk, eggs, and carrots. However, many people struggle to get enough vitamin A from food, so you may want to consider supplementing with vitamin A pills.
• Vitamin B. Vitamin B is also vital for skin health. The easiest way to get it is by taking a B-complex vitamin, which contains all the B vitamins, but you can also get it from chickpeas, fish, and poultry.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids. Omega-3s are crucial for maintaining skin hydration and reducing inflammation. Omega-3 vitamins and supplements can be found at health food stores and pharmacies. Leafy vegetables, nuts, and fatty fish (such as salmon and mackerel) are rich sources of omega-3s.

Reduce Stress. Stress affects hormone levels, which can make itching worse. Therefore, it can be beneficial to practice stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, yoga, and exercise.

Use Calamine Body Lotion. Calamine lotion contains zinc oxide, a form of iron oxide and/or zinc carbonate. This lotion has been used for decades to relieve itching caused by various factors, including poison ivy, oak, sumac, sunburns, and insect bites. It also helps prevent skin infections from excessive scratching.

• Calamine body lotion is available at pharmacies at an affordable price.

Make a Oatmeal Paste. A paste is a soft, moist material, typically ground herbs and other substances or powders. It is applied directly to the skin and secured with a piece of cloth. Measure 1 cup (240ml) of oatmeal paste and blend it using a coffee grinder or blender to create a coarse powder. Add just enough water to form a thick paste, and apply it to areas of skin affected by poison ivy, oak, sumac, sunburns, or insect bites. Leave it on as long as it provides relief, then rinse with warm water.

• You can also cover the treated area with a clean cotton cloth and secure it with elastic bandages or medical tape.
• You can use unground oatmeal, but it will be harder to apply evenly.

Make a Baking Soda Paste. Measure about ½ cup (120ml) of baking soda. Add enough water to create a thick paste, then apply it to areas of skin affected by poison ivy, oak, sumac, sunburns, or insect bites. Leave it on for as long as it feels comfortable, then rinse with warm water.

• You can also cover the treated area with a clean cotton cloth and secure it with elastic bandages or medical tape.

Understand the Causes of Itching. Specialized nerve fibers are responsible for transmitting sensory information like itching to the brain. When these nerves are stimulated, they release signaling chemicals called cytokines, which activate nearby nerve endings. Histamine is one example of a cytokine responsible for the sensation of itching during allergic reactions. The more nerve fibers are stimulated, the more intense the signals sent to the brain, which then triggers the scratching response.

• Itching may accompany or lead to redness, swelling, and other rash-like symptoms. In some cases, no visible changes occur on the skin.

Identifying the Causes of Itchy Skin. Itching can stem from a variety of sources, ranging from minor and temporary insect bites to skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis, to more serious underlying health issues such as liver or kidney diseases. The main causes of itchy skin include:

• Dry Skin – One of the most common culprits for itching is dry skin, which can be triggered by environmental factors (such as air conditioning, heating, low humidity, or overuse of harsh soaps that dry out the skin) or insufficient water intake.
• Skin Conditions – Common dermatological conditions like eczema (atopic dermatitis) and psoriasis are frequently associated with itching, redness, irritation, swelling, and blistering. Sunburn can also lead to itching.
• Bacterial or Fungal Infections – Infectious diseases like chickenpox, measles, shingles, genital herpes, and anal herpes can cause intense itching.
• Parasitic Infections – Tiny, wingless creatures that live in the hair or pubic area, known as lice, can cause itching.
• Systemic Diseases – Liver disease is often accompanied by itching, which can range from mild to severe. Other conditions that may include itching as a symptom are certain blood disorders (such as iron deficiency anemia, polycythemia vera, etc.), cancers (leukemia, lymphoma), and thyroid disorders.
• Allergic Reactions – Allergies to insect bites, pollen, poisonous plants, cosmetics, personal care products, and food can cause itching ranging from mild to severe. Rashes caused by contact dermatitis (a skin rash caused by contact with an irritant or allergen) can be extremely itchy.
• Drug Allergies – Some skin reactions can cause itching, from mild to severe, as a common side effect of medications, including antibiotics, antifungals, and certain painkillers.
• Nervous Disorders – Conditions like diabetes or multiple sclerosis that affect the nerves can lead to a sensation of itching.
• Pregnancy – Itching is often a “side effect” of pregnancy, commonly affecting the belly, breasts, thighs, and arms.

Evaluating the Symptoms. It is important to determine whether the itching is simply due to dry skin or if it is a symptom of another underlying skin condition. A rash can be related to an allergic reaction or other conditions. Dry skin is most often found on the lower legs, stomach, arms, and thighs, with signs such as flaking, itching, and cracking. It is advised to consult a doctor if you notice signs on your skin that could be related to something more serious than just dry skin. These signs may include persistent rashes or hives with no clear cause.

• Rashes present as raised, red, or swollen patches on the skin, often changing color, flaking, or blistering. Common types of rashes include poison ivy, heat rash, hives, and eczema. Non-infectious rashes can typically be treated with over-the-counter hydrocortisone creams, while oral antihistamines may help alleviate itching. However, if new rashes appear without clear cause, if a fever accompanies the rash, or if the rash persists for more than a few days, medical attention is necessary.
• Hives are marked by raised, reddish or pink patches on the skin, often appearing individually or grouped together. Hives typically signal an allergic reaction to foods, medications, insect bites, pollen, or allergy shots. Other potential triggers include fungal and bacterial infections, stress, exposure to chemicals, sunlight, heat, cold, or water. For most people, hives are not a serious condition. If you suspect an allergy at work, a doctor can conduct allergy tests and prescribe treatment (usually antihistamines).
• If hives result in difficulty breathing, seek emergency medical help immediately, as this is a sign of a severe allergic reaction.

Consulting a Doctor. If the itching persists and spreads without an obvious cause, or if home remedies have not provided relief within 2-3 days, it is important to schedule an appointment with a doctor to identify the underlying cause and determine the best treatment approach.

• If you experience prolonged hives and/or a rash, make sure to inform your doctor.
• Diagnosing the condition relies on identifying the underlying cause, typically through a physical examination, a detailed review of your medical history, and various tests. In some cases, a skin biopsy may be necessary to analyze the skin under a microscope. Most cases of itching are at least partially caused by dry skin, which can be treated to relieve the itching, though the underlying cause may take time to identify.

• Seek immediate treatment if itching is accompanied by difficulty breathing. This is a sign of an allergic reaction that can potentially be fatal.
• While scratching the itchy area may feel relieving, try to resist the urge as much as possible. Scratching can further irritate the skin and may lead to tearing.
• Although most cases of itching are caused by allergies or other sensitivity reactions, persistent itching could be a sign of a serious underlying health condition. Disorders such as liver disease, anemia, kidney failure, diabetes, shingles, and lupus can manifest with itching as a symptom. Therefore, finding an appropriate treatment to determine the cause of the itching is crucial.