Itching is a common sensation that everybody has experienced at one point or another. It can be caused by a variety of reasons such as allergies, insect bites, dry skin, or medical conditions such as eczema.
Regardless of the cause of your itch, it can be quite uncomfortable and can disrupt your daily life. Here are 30 ways to alleviate an itch:.
1. Moisturize your skin
Dry skin is a common cause of itching, so keeping your skin moisturized can help alleviate the itch. Use a moisturizer that suits your skin type and apply it daily.
2. Take a cool bath or shower
A cool bath or shower can help to soothe itchy skin. Avoid using hot water as it can make your skin more dry and itchy.
3. Apply a cold compress
Applying a cold compress to the affected area can help to numb the itch and reduce inflammation.
4. Use over-the-counter anti-itch creams
There are many anti-itch creams available over-the-counter that can provide relief. Look for creams that contain ingredients like hydrocortisone, menthol, or pramoxine.
5. Use calamine lotion
Calamine lotion contains zinc oxide, which can help soothe itchy or irritated skin. Apply a thin layer of calamine lotion to the affected area.
6. Apply aloe vera gel
Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory properties that can help ease itching and reduce irritation. Apply a liberal amount of aloe vera gel to the affected area.
7. Take an oatmeal bath
Oatmeal baths can help soothe itchy skin. Fill your bathtub with lukewarm water and add a cup of oatmeal. Soak in the bath for 15 to 20 minutes.
8. Add baking soda to your bath
Baking soda has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce itching. Add a cup of baking soda to your bath and soak for 15 to 20 minutes.
9. Use essential oils
Essential oils like peppermint, tea tree, and lavender can help ease the itch. Mix a few drops of essential oil with a carrier oil like coconut oil and apply to the affected area.
10. Take an antihistamine
If your itching is caused by allergies, taking an antihistamine can help provide relief.
11. Wear loose-fitting clothing
Tight clothing can irritate the skin and exacerbate the itch. Wear loose-fitting clothing made of breathable materials like cotton.
12. Use a humidifier
Dry air can exacerbate itching. Using a humidifier can help to add moisture to the air and alleviate the itch.
13. Avoid scratching
As tempting as it may be, scratching can make the itch worse and can even lead to infection. Try to resist scratching and use one of the other methods on this list to alleviate the itch.
14. Drink plenty of water
Staying hydrated can help keep the skin moisturized and reduce itching.
15. Apply vinegar
Vinegar has antiseptic and antifungal properties that can help relieve itching. Dilute vinegar with water and apply to the affected area using a cotton ball.
16. Apply honey
Honey has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe itching. Apply a small amount of honey to the affected area.
17. Apply witch hazel
Witch hazel has astringent properties that can help soothe itching. Apply witch hazel to the affected area using a cotton ball.
18. Apply chamomile tea
Chamomile tea has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe itching. Brew some chamomile tea, let it cool, and apply to the affected area using a cotton ball.
19. Apply coconut oil
Coconut oil has moisturizing properties that can help alleviate itching. Apply a liberal amount of coconut oil to the affected area.
20. Apply petroleum jelly
Petroleum jelly can help to lock in moisture and alleviate itching. Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to the affected area.
21. Apply menthol
Menthol has a cooling effect that can help to numb itching and provide relief. Look for creams or ointments that contain menthol.
22. Apply tea tree oil
Tea tree oil has antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties that can help to alleviate itching. Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with a carrier oil like coconut oil and apply to the affected area.
23. Apply apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has antiseptic and antibacterial properties that can help to alleviate itching. Dilute apple cider vinegar with water and apply to the affected area using a cotton ball.
24. Apply eucalyptus oil
Eucalyptus oil has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that can help to reduce itching. Mix a few drops of eucalyptus oil with a carrier oil like coconut oil and apply to the affected area.
25. Apply lemon juice
Lemon juice has astringent and antifungal properties that can help to alleviate itching. Apply fresh lemon juice to the affected area using a cotton ball.
26. Apply peppermint oil
Peppermint oil has a cooling effect that can help to reduce itching. Mix a few drops of peppermint oil with a carrier oil like coconut oil and apply to the affected area.
27. Apply olive oil
Olive oil has moisturizing properties that can help to alleviate itching. Apply a liberal amount of olive oil to the affected area.
28. Apply lavender oil
Lavender oil has anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties that can help to alleviate itching. Mix a few drops of lavender oil with a carrier oil like coconut oil and apply to the affected area.
29. Apply rose water
Rose water has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to alleviate itching. Apply rose water to the affected area using a cotton ball.
30. Apply shea butter
Shea butter has moisturizing properties that can help to alleviate itching. Apply a liberal amount of shea butter to the affected area.