Itching relief for dry skin may be provided simply by applying moisturizer or taking an oatmeal bath. If a person is suffering from eczema, ointments and corn starch are likely to be the best remedies for the itch. Minor rashes or irritation from bug bites are often effectively soothed by over-the-counter ointments. For fungal infections, anti-fungal treatment formulated for healing may also provide itching relief.
The best method of itching relief heavily depends on the cause of the problem. For example, in many cases, itching is merely the result of dry skin. When this is the case, applying skin moisturizer is likely to be an effective means of relief. People with severely dry skin may want to consider products that are specially designed for that skin type. Individuals suffering from this problem may also benefit from taking a bath with oatmeal, milk, or both.
Sometimes itching skin results from sensitivity. When a person has sensitive skin, the best remedies are often changes of behavior. To begin with, these individuals should be very aware of the ingredients contained in their cosmetics, body cleansers, and laundry detergents. There are products available in all of these categories that are designed specifically for people with sensitive skin, and when a person is aware that she has this skin type, it is advisable to use them.
A more troublesome and fairly common cause of itching skin is eczema. This is a condition that is often characterized by itchy patches in areas such as the inside of the elbows, the neck, and the back of the legs. The cause of eczema is unknown, and there are no real cures, but there are both over-the-counter and prescription ointments that effectively provide itching relief. Dusting corn starch on the problem areas has also been noted as an excellent means of providing relief.
Ointments and salves are often a good choice for other skin conditions and rashes. Aloe and hydrocortisone are two ingredients that individuals may want to look for when choosing products. Both of these ingredients are well known for their soothing effects. Other options, which tend to be easily accessible, are vapor rubs and products containing menthol. These will provide a cooling effect, but individuals should realize that these products, while often very effective, do not usually provide long-term itching relief, so they may have to be applied often.
There are special products that are generally required if itching relief is needed due to infection by fungal organisms. In these instances, the products that should be purchased should clearly state that they are anti-fungal treatments and that they provide itching relief. Likewise, if the problem is caused by lice, medicated shampoos are generally regarded as the best option for treatment and for eliminating the itch.