Remedies for Itchy Skin All Over

Itching may come from dry skin, inflammation, an allergy, infection or a medicine. Asteatotic Eczema often affects dry, cracked skin, while Atopic Dermatitis may cause recurring itchy inflamed areas. Contact Dermatitis can follow exposure to a product or material. Scabies may itch intensely and spread among close contacts. Hives create raised, shifting welts; Psoriasis, Lichen Planus and Skin Yeast Infection have different patterns that need different treatment.

Take short, lukewarm showers and use a fragrance-free cleanser only where needed. Apply a thick, plain moisturiser soon after bathing and repeat when skin feels dry. Keep nails short, use a cool compress and choose loose, breathable clothing. Stop a newly introduced cosmetic, detergent or topical product if it seems linked, unless it is prescribed. Avoid scratching, which can break the skin and invite infection. A pharmacist or clinician can advise whether an antihistamine or anti-inflammatory treatment is appropriate for your symptoms and medicines.

Seek urgent help for itching with swelling of the lips or tongue, trouble breathing, faintness or rapidly spreading hives. Arrange prompt medical review for fever, yellowing skin, dark urine, severe night itching, open or infected skin, or itching that persists without a visible rash. If household contacts are itchy too, mention this because Scabies may need coordinated treatment.

What pattern do you see on my skin? Could a product, medicine or infection be responsible? Do I need tests for a cause beyond the skin? Which moisturiser or anti-itch treatment fits my health history?