Why Does Skin Itch?

Why Does Skin Itch?

There are many causes of itchy skin, including those which involve only the skin, such as:

  • environmental exposure to chemicals or detergents
  • excessive dryness
  • insect bites and stings
  • lice or scabies
  • inflammatory skin disease like eczema or psoriasis
  • skin infections
  • skin growths
  • hereditary conditions

Itching can also be caused by things that involve more than just the skin, including:

  • infections
  • reactions to certain medications
  • pregnancy
  • other health issues

Home Care for Itching

Avoid long, hot showers and be sure to always moisturize with a thick moisturizer immediately after bathing. Avoid scratching to relieve the itch. Wear soft, breathable clothing. Use fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, mild products on your skin, including shampoos, soaps, laundry detergent, moisturizers, beauty products, etc. Advanced Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery has dermatologist-recommended products suitable for sensitive skin.

Different skin-soothing products are available over the counter which contain menthol, camphor and capsaicin. These may also help control itching when combined with other home-care remedies.

If home-care measures don’t help your itching, or if itching interferes with your daily routine, prevents you from sleeping or is accompanied by other symptoms, make an appointment to see your Advanced Dermatology dermatologist.

How Advanced Dermatology Can Help

Your Advanced Dermatology provider will first determine the reason for your itching. Treatment options will vary based on the cause, but there are several therapeutic ways to help control the problem. Prescription-strength moisturizers, topical prescription medications to put on your skin, (including steroids, coal tars, anesthetics, antihistamines, and sometimes those that help regulate the immune system) may be recommended. Oral medications may be recommended alone or with topical treatments. They may include antihistamines, allergy medicines, and steroids. Phototherapy has also been successful in reducing inflammation and soothing some itchy skin.

Your Advanced Dermatology physicians and other specially-trained medical providers understand how serious and bothersome itchy skin is and will provide a thorough evaluation and treatment plan.

Immediate appointments available at many of our 160+ Locations

BOOK AN APPOINTMENT 866-400-3376

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