What helps against itchy skin - 7 practical tips
Are you suffering from itchy skin and looking for a way to get rid of it? There are a number of methods to relieve or even stop itching, and in this article we'll introduce you to 7 of the most well-known ones. Choosing the right method depends on the cause of the itch.
Causes of itchy skin
Itching can have a number of causes, from insect bites to dry skin, allergies, vitamin deficiencies to various dermatological diseases (eczema, psoriasis) or the use of certain medications. Less often, itchy skin without a rash usually affects the whole body and is a symptom of an internal disease (e.g. thyroid, liver, kidney, etc.).
External influences such as excessive washing, the use of unsuitable washing and cosmetic products, as well as climatic influences often contribute to itching.
The natural and often subconscious reaction to itching is scratching, which may bring relief for a while but actually makes the situation worse. Therefore, it is better to try one of the proven methods.
7 popular methods that help against itchy skin
1. Colloidal oatmeal bath
Using oatmeal baths is one of the traditional natural remedies and a tried and tested grandmotherly advice for itchy skin. This is because oats contain anti-inflammatory compounds known as avenanthramides, which have an antioxidant and soothing effect.
You can find colloidal oatmeal in many preparations, or you can simply prepare an oatmeal bath yourself. You will need half a kilo of oatmeal and three litres of hot water. Pour the water over the oatmeal and leave it to stand for an hour. Then strain the mixture and add the liquor to the bath water. A 15-minute bath is enough and you can repeat it for five days in a row for better results. This type of bath helps in the treatment of atopic eczema and is also suitable for children.
2. Cool compresses for instant relief
Another old wives' tip that works for persistent itching is to apply a cool compress on the affected area. Leave the compress on the skin for at least 10 minutes. This method is effective because the sensation of cold has a numbing effect.
3. Moisturizing creams
For dry and eczematous skin, application of a good quality moisturizing cream helps. To reduce the risk of allergic reactions, choose hypoallergenic products without perfumes.
Moisturisers usually contain skin moisturising agents (glycerin, honey, urea, hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, AHA acids), ingredients that help lock in moisture (beeswax, olive oil, lanolin, petroleum jelly) and a third ingredient, oils and lipids that soften and nourish the skin. These help restore the skin barrier and include shea butter, ceramides and various types of vegetable oils (grapeseed, castor, avocado, argan or rosehip).
Moisturising creams contain either all or some of these ingredients. It's important to choose carefully based on the ingredients and to try different products, as something different suits everyone and some ingredients may irritate your skin.
4. Limit the frequency of showering and use lukewarm water
Use lukewarm or cold water for showering, as high temperatures can strip your skin of moisture. You should not stay in the shower for more than 20 minutes and you should also reduce the frequency of showering. Immediately after showering, apply a moisturizing lotion to avoid drying out your skin.
5. A balanced diet
If you suddenly get a rash or dry skin, try changing your diet. Modifying your diet is often essential for treating skin problems, as the skin is a reflection of what is going on inside our bodies. It does not benefit from too much sugar, white flour, sausages, red meat, preservatives, semi-processed and chemically modified foods.
Instead, include more vegetables, fruits and foods rich in vitamins A, C, D and E in your diet. Vitamin A promotes skin renewal, vitamin C is essential for collagen production and maintaining skin elasticity, vitamin D regulates skin cell growth and vitamin E protects cells from oxidative damage. Zinc also helps against inflammation and itching.
In the case of atopic eczema, avoid foods high in histamine and those that promote its release into the body.
6. Reducing stress
Long-term stress is one of the factors that can aggravate diseases such as psoriasis or atopic eczema, and therefore itching. Try to minimize contact with known stressors and respond appropriately to situations that cannot be changed. Regular sport, conscious breathing, meditation or yoga can help reduce stress.
7. Dermaguard
Try our Dermaguard barrier cream, which hydrates the skin, retains water, relieves itching and protects against free radicals and environmental irritants. It is suitable for dry and eczematous skin. You can order Dermaguard directly from our website.
