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Try these tips to help relieve itching from a rash.
Put cloths soaked in ice water on the rash a few times a day. Too much wetting and drying will dry the skin, which can increase itching.
Heat makes itching worse.
Or you can try an oatmeal bath product, such as Aveeno.
Scratching leads to more scratching. Cut nails short or wear cotton gloves at night to prevent scratching.
Don't wear wool and synthetic fabrics next to your skin.
Examples are Basis, Cetaphil, Dove, and Oil of Olay. Use as little soap as you can. Don't use deodorant soaps.
Try using ones like CheerFree or Ecover. Rinse twice to remove all traces of the soap. Don't use strong detergents.
Dry skin may make itching worse.
Carefully read and follow all label directions on the medicine bottle or box.
Take several breaks during the day to do a relaxation exercise if stress appears to cause your itching or make it worse. In particular, do it before you go to bed. Sit or lie down, and try to clear your mind. Manage your stress by relaxing every muscle in your body, starting with your toes and going up to your head. Doing this may help your symptoms.
You may be able to prevent itching from getting worse.
Heat increases itching.
If you are taking a bath, use a skin cleanser at the very end. Then rinse off with fresh water. Gently pat your skin dry with a towel.
Apply a moisturizer or calamine lotion to the skin while it is damp.
Rinse twice to remove all traces of the cleaning product. Avoid strong detergents when you have a rash.
Scratching leads to more itching and may cause a skin infection to develop. Cut nails short or wear cotton gloves at night to prevent scratching. Put mittens or cotton socks on the hands of babies and young children to prevent scratching.
If home treatment doesn't relieve the itching, you may want to try taking an over-the-counter medicine.
Don't use the cream on children younger than age 2 unless your doctor tells you to. Don't use it in the rectal or vaginal area in children younger than age 12 unless your doctor tells you to.
If the itching is severe and it interferes with sleep or other activities for more than 2 days, call your doctor to discuss your symptoms.
Current as of: November 16, 2023
Author: Healthwise StaffClinical Review BoardAll Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review BoardAll Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
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