7 Home Remedies To Treat Itchy Skin

Itchiness refers to an urge to scratch your skin. The itch may be felt in one area or even all over the body. At times, itching is accompanied by hives or a rash.

No cure has been found for atopic dermatitis. But treatments and self-care measures can relieve itching and prevent new outbreaks. For example, it helps to avoid harsh soaps and other irritants, apply medicated creams or ointments, and moisturize your skin.

# Take a warm colloidal oatmeal bath

Colloidal oatmeal is essentially oats ground into an extremely fine powder, which may help alleviate a variety of skin problems, such as erythema, burns, eczema, rashes, and dry and itchy skin.

Oatmeal in colloidal form is known to exhibit anti-irritating, anti-inflammatory, and skin-soothing properties that may provide quick relief from itching.

# Apply coconut oil

The topical application of coconut oil may help relieve eczema in both kids and adults.

This natural emollient not only hydrates parched skin but also doubles up as a potent antimicrobial agent with significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

# Use gentle cold therapy

The same nerve fibers are responsible for carrying the sensations of both cold and itching. Applying cool water on the itchy skin may provide instant but temporary relief from the discomfort.

# Moisturize with shea butter

Shea butter possesses nourishing and moisturizing properties, which may help soothe the itching.

Although the use of shea butter for itchy skin has not been studied in clinical trials, it is a popular anecdotal remedy for the same. You can try applying shea butter on your skin if you are not allergic to it.

# Soothe skin with aloe vera extract

The viscous gel contained within aloe vera leaves is richly supplied with vitamin E. This vitamin is a potent antioxidant that can help nourish your skin and protect it from free radicals and external irritants.

Aloe vera also works as a hydrating, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal agent.

# Use baking soda

Baking soda can help reduce inflammation by neutralizing the acids on the skin. However, the use of baking soda is merely anecdotal and its efficacy is very much subjective.

How to use: You can mix baking soda in water and apply this paste to the affected areas. Alternatively, you can rinse the skin with baking soda water (1–2 cups of baking soda mixed in a tub of lukewarm water).

# Apply apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) possesses antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce itchiness associated with a bacterial infection.

However, it must be employed with caution as its use is based purely on anecdotal evidence.

How to use: Mix ACV and water in a 1:2 ratio, and apply it to your skin using a cotton ball. You can also add 1 tablespoon of ACV to your bathwater.