What are the common causes of an itchy face. How can you alleviate facial itching symptoms. What underlying conditions might be responsible for persistent facial pruritus. When should you seek medical attention for an itchy face.

Understanding Facial Pruritus: More Than Just a Minor Annoyance

Facial pruritus, commonly known as an itchy face, is a condition that can range from mildly irritating to severely disruptive. While often dismissed as a trivial issue, persistent facial itching can significantly impact one’s quality of life and may indicate underlying health concerns. This comprehensive guide delves into the various causes, symptoms, and treatments for facial pruritus, providing valuable insights for those seeking relief.

Common Culprits: Everyday Factors That Trigger Facial Itching

Many everyday factors can contribute to an itchy face. Understanding these common triggers is the first step towards finding effective relief:

• Frequent washing
• Exposure to harsh chemicals
• Low air humidity
• Use of irritating skincare products
• Environmental allergens
• Excessive sun exposure

Is dry skin a major contributor to facial itching? Indeed, it is one of the most prevalent causes. Dry skin can result from various factors, including those mentioned above, as well as natural aging processes and certain medical conditions.

Preventing Dry Skin: Expert Recommendations

The American Academy of Dermatology suggests the following strategies to prevent dry skin and alleviate facial itching:

1. Use warm (not hot) water for bathing and washing
2. Choose mild, fragrance-free, and alcohol-free cleansers
3. Cleanse the face once daily at night, rinsing with cool water in the morning
4. Limit bath and shower time to 5-10 minutes
5. Apply moisturizers immediately after bathing while skin is still damp
6. Use shaving cream or gel to soften hairs before shaving
7. Change razor blades every five to seven uses
8. Apply cool cloths to affected areas for relief
9. Use a petrolatum-based lip balm for chapped lips
10. Protect your face from cold temperatures with a scarf

The Aging Factor: How Time Affects Facial Skin Health

Do older adults experience facial itching more frequently? Research suggests that pruritus is indeed more prevalent among seniors. As we age, several physiological changes occur that can contribute to increased skin sensitivity and itching:

• Changes in skin pH levels
• Decreased hormone production
• Reduced ability to retain moisture
• Thinning of the skin

These age-related changes can lead to drier, more sensitive skin that is prone to itching. While aging is inevitable, there are steps that can be taken to maintain skin health and reduce discomfort.

Combating Age-Related Facial Itching

How can older adults manage facial pruritus? While treatment approaches may vary depending on the underlying cause, moisturizing remains a cornerstone of skin care for seniors. Choosing the right moisturizer is crucial:

• Occlusive moisturizers containing petrolatum can prevent water loss by forming a protective barrier
• Humectants like urea, glycolic acid, and lactic acid attract and bind water to hydrate the skin
• Emollients can help smooth and soften the skin

Consulting with a dermatologist can help determine the most appropriate skincare regimen for individual needs.

When Bugs Bite: Insect-Related Facial Itching

Insect bites are a common cause of localized facial itching. While mosquito bites are often the culprit, other insects such as lice and bed bugs can also cause persistent itching on the face.

Home Remedies for Insect Bite Relief

What can you do to alleviate itching from insect bites? Try these home treatments:

• Clean the affected area with soap and water
• Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling and itching
• Take over-the-counter pain relievers or antihistamines
• Use calamine lotion or hydrocortisone cream for itch relief

When should you seek medical attention for an insect bite? If you experience symptoms of anaphylaxis, such as wheezing, difficulty breathing, abdominal pain, or vomiting, seek immediate medical care as this indicates a severe allergic reaction.

Skin Conditions: When Itching is More Than Skin Deep

Various skin conditions can cause facial itching, often accompanied by other symptoms such as redness, inflammation, or rashes. Some common skin conditions associated with facial pruritus include:

• Eczema
• Psoriasis
• Seborrheic dermatitis
• Folliculitis
• Hives
• Chickenpox
• Shingles
• Ringworm

Each of these conditions requires specific diagnosis and treatment. A dermatologist can provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatments, which may include topical medications, antihistamines, or other therapies depending on the underlying condition.

The Cancer Connection: When Itching May Signal Something Serious

Can facial itching be a sign of cancer? While uncommon, persistent itching, especially when accompanied by skin changes, can sometimes be a symptom of skin cancer or melanoma. Additionally, itching may occur due to the body’s reaction to a tumor becoming cancerous or cancer forming elsewhere in the body.

What should you look for? Be aware of any new or changing spots on the skin, especially those that feel itchy. If you notice such changes, consult a dermatologist promptly for evaluation.

Treatment Approaches for Cancer-Related Itching

How is cancer-related itching addressed? Treatment depends on the specific diagnosis but may include:

• Cryotherapy
• Chemotherapy
• Radiation therapy
• Immunotherapy
• Surgical excision

To manage itching specifically, doctors may prescribe histone deacetylase inhibitors or oral corticosteroids. Always follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations for treatment and follow-up care.

Hidden Culprits: Systemic Conditions Causing Facial Itching

Can an itchy face indicate an underlying health issue? In some cases, yes. Persistent facial itching without visible skin changes may be a sign of an underlying systemic condition. Some conditions that may manifest with facial pruritus include:

• Kidney disease
• Liver disorders
• Thyroid problems
• Diabetes
• HIV
• Blood disorders

For instance, people with chronic kidney failure who are approaching the need for dialysis may experience intense itching. If you’re experiencing persistent, unexplained facial itching, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider to rule out any underlying conditions.

Diagnostic Approaches for Systemic Causes of Facial Itching

How do doctors determine if facial itching is due to a systemic condition? The diagnostic process may include:

• Comprehensive medical history review
• Physical examination
• Blood tests to check organ function and look for signs of infection or autoimmune disorders
• Skin biopsy, if necessary
• Referral to specialists based on suspected underlying conditions

Early diagnosis and treatment of underlying conditions can not only alleviate facial itching but also prevent potential complications associated with these health issues.

Effective Treatments: Finding Relief from Facial Itching

What are the most effective treatments for facial itching? The appropriate treatment depends on the underlying cause, but may include:

• Moisturizers and emollients for dry skin
• Topical corticosteroids for inflammation
• Antihistamines for allergic reactions
• Targeted therapies for specific skin conditions
• Lifestyle modifications to avoid triggers
• Treatment of underlying systemic conditions

In addition to medical treatments, several home remedies and lifestyle changes can help manage facial itching:

1. Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air
2. Avoid hot showers and use lukewarm water instead
3. Pat your skin dry gently after washing, rather than rubbing
4. Wear soft, breathable fabrics next to your skin
5. Manage stress through relaxation techniques or meditation
6. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
7. Avoid scratching, which can lead to skin damage and infection

Remember, while these strategies can provide relief, persistent or severe facial itching warrants professional medical evaluation to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.

When to Seek Medical Attention: Red Flags for Facial Itching

When should you consult a healthcare provider about facial itching? Consider seeking medical attention if you experience:

• Persistent itching that doesn’t respond to over-the-counter treatments
• Itching accompanied by visible skin changes, such as rashes or lesions
• Signs of infection, including increased redness, warmth, or pus
• Itching that significantly impacts your quality of life or sleep
• Unexplained itching without visible skin changes
• Itching accompanied by other systemic symptoms like fatigue, weight loss, or fever

A dermatologist or primary care physician can help determine the underlying cause of your facial itching and recommend appropriate treatments. In some cases, they may refer you to other specialists depending on their findings.

Preparing for Your Medical Appointment

How can you make the most of your medical appointment for facial itching? Consider these tips:

1. Keep a diary of your symptoms, noting when the itching occurs and any potential triggers
2. Make a list of all medications, supplements, and skincare products you use
3. Prepare a list of questions for your healthcare provider
4. If possible, avoid scratching or applying treatments before your appointment so the doctor can observe your skin in its natural state
5. Be prepared to discuss your medical history, including any known allergies or skin conditions

By providing comprehensive information, you can help your healthcare provider make an accurate diagnosis and develop an effective treatment plan.

Itchy face: Causes, symptoms, and treatment

A person may experience an itching sensation, or pruritus, on their face for a number of different reasons.

Although pruritus can occur due to visible conditions, such as psoriasis or an insect bite, it might also indicate the presence of an underlying condition.

This article will look at the different causes of pruritus on the face, as well as some options that may provide relief.

Dry skin on the face can be a cause of pruritus. A person might have dry skin on their face for many reasons.

These may include:

• frequent washing
• exposure to harsh chemicals
• low air humidity

The American Academy of Dermatology recommend following these tips to prevent dry skin:

• Use warm water for bathing and washing.
• Choose a mild, fragrant- and alcohol-free cleanser.
• Cleanse the face once per day at night, then rinse with cool water in the morning.
• Limit bath and shower time to 5–10 minutes.
• Apply moisturizers immediately after taking a bath or shower, while the skin is still damp, to lock in moisture.
• Shave after taking a bath or shower, and use a shaving cream or gel to soften the hairs.
• Change razor blades every five to seven uses.
• Apply cool cloths to the affected area.
• Apply a lip balm with petrolatum to soothe chapped lips.
• Wear a scarf to protect the face from exposure to cold temperatures.

Treatment

If pruritus occurs due to dry skin, a person can moisturize to ease the itching. The purpose of a moisturizer is to prevent water loss and add water to the skin.

Moisturizers contain different ingredients that serve different purposes. For example, occlusive moisturizers containing petrolatum prevent water loss from the skin by forming a barrier.

Humectants, such as urea and glycolic and lactic acids, attract and bind water to hydrate the skin.

Learn more about dry skin on the face here.

Pruritus appears to be particularly prevalent among older adults. As people age, their bodies’ pH levels can change. There may also be decreased hormone levels and a reduced ability to retain water.

As the skin retains less moisture and becomes thinner, this may cause dry skin and pruritus.

Treatment

Treatments for pruritus among older adults will depend on the cause. However, a person may be able to ease the itching by moisturizing the skin.

Learn how to improve skin health here.

Some people may experience pruritus on their face as a result of a mosquito bite.

Typically, a mosquito bite will clear up by itself. However, other bugs — including lice and bed bugs — may live or feed on the skin.

Treatment

Home treatment for bug bites may include:

• cleaning the area with soap and water
• applying a cold compress
• ïtaking over-the-counter pain relievers, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
• taking antihistamines

If a person is experiencing anaphylaxis, which is a severe allergic reaction, they or someone near them should seek immediate medical attention.

Symptoms of anaphylaxis may include wheezing, the feeling of a lump in the throat, abdominal pain, and vomiting.

Learn more about insect bites here.

People with the following skin conditions may experience pruritus on the face:

• chickenpox, which is an infectious viral disease
• folliculitis, which is a condition that causes hair follicles to become inflamed
• eczema, which is a condition wherein the skin can become itchy, red, cracked, and inflamed
• hives, which may occur due to an allergic reaction that causes swollen bumps on the skin to appear
• psoriasis, which is a chronic condition that causes red, scaly patches of skin to develop
• seborrheic dermatitis, which is a skin condition that affects the scalp
• ringworm, which is a fungal skin infection
• shingles, which is a viral infection that causes rashes

Treatment

To control the itch, a doctor will first need to diagnose the condition. Once they have confirmed the diagnosis, they can develop a treatment and management plan to provide relief from the itch.

Some treatments may include calamine lotion, topical medications, and antihistamines.

Learn more about skin conditions here.

A visible sign of skin cancer, or melanoma, is a new or changing spot on the skin. This spot may sometimes feel itchy.

In this case, pruritus may occur due to the skin’s reaction to a tumor becoming cancerous or to cancer forming elsewhere in the body.

Treatment

The treatment options for melanoma include cryotherapy, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and surgical excision.

To reduce the itch, a doctor may prescribe histone deacetylase inhibitors and oral corticosteroids.

Learn more about skin cancer here.

A long-term itch without a rash or any other visible marks may suggest that a person has an underlying condition.

Specifically, conditions that affect the blood, kidneys, liver, or thyroid gland can cause pruritus. Some people with diabetes and HIV may also experience pruritus.

People with chronic kidney failure who are close to requiring dialysis may have a chronic itch. In fact, researchers suggest that about 40% of people with end stage kidney failure experience pruritus.

Liver disease can also cause pruritus. According to one 2015 study, 69% of those with primary biliary cirrhosis experienced pruritus, and 75% of those people reported experiencing pruritus before receiving their diagnosis.

Chronic pruritus can affect a person’s mood and sleep, which may affect their quality of life.

Treatment

In these cases, treatment for pruritus will depend on the exact condition a person has. For example, people with liver disease may require creams or ointments for mild and local pruritus. Some may need systemic medications if the itch is severe or generalized.

Treatment for pruritus more generally may include opioid receptor antagonists, antihistamines, bile salts, and rifampicin.

People can develop allergic skin reactions to many different substances. Nickel, for example, is a common substance that can cause allergic reactions.

Many products that can come into contact with the face — including jewelry, cell phones, and eyeglass frames — may contain nickel.

People who develop an allergic reaction to a substance might develop a noticeable rash.

Treatment

In order to treat allergies that affect the skin, a person can use steroid creams or ointments.

Learn more about allergic reactions on the face here.

Some plant and marine life can cause pruritus.

Plant life

The following is a list of plants that may cause a reaction on the skin:

• poison ivy
• oak
• sumac
• strawberry
• garlic
• tomato
• comfrey
• borage
• rose hip
• hot peppers

Marine life

“Swimmer’s itch,” for example, may occur when a person develops an allergic reaction after coming into contact with parasites in a pond, lake, or ocean.

“Seabather’s eruption,” on the other hand, is a reaction that can occur when newly hatched jellyfish or sea anemones become trapped between a person’s skin and their swimsuit.

Treatment

Treatment for allergic reactions to plant and marine life includes steroids and antihistamines.

Some medications may cause itchy skin, including:

Treatment

In some cases, a person can stop taking a drug and replace it with another that does not cause pruritus.

Some people may not be able to change their medication, however, so they must discuss the treatment and management of this side effect with their doctor.

Learn more about side effects here.

Some people may have pruritus on the face as a result of nerve damage. Typically, pruritus due to nerve damage is localized.

Stroke and multiple sclerosis can both affect or damage the nerves, potentially resulting in pruritus.

Treatment

It can be difficult to treat pruritus that occurs due to nerve damage. However, person may use local anesthetics, gabapentin, or capsaicin patches to alleviate the itch.

There has not been much research into effective treatments for pruritus due to nerve damage.

Learn more about the nervous system here.

Health professionals suggest that almost everyone develops an allergic reaction on their skin at least once.

In making a diagnosis, they will examine the skin carefully. They may also ask about any current and past health concerns.

They may also ask about work, free time, pets, and skincare products to find the substance that caused the reaction.

Some people may need to undergo patch testing. For this, a doctor will place a patch containing small amounts of substances that may cause an allergic reaction on the skin. A few days later, they will remove the patch and check the skin to see if another rash appears.

People with underlying health conditions may require a full medical examination to determine the cause of the itch.

People experiencing pruritus should consult with a doctor, as this can be a symptom of several chronic health conditions.

Other symptoms that may point to an underlying condition include:

• nausea
• pain in the upper right side of the abdomen
• dark urine
• jaundice, or a yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes
• anorexia
• vomiting
• anxiety
• fatigue
• sensitivity to heat
• muscle weakness
• diarrhea
• frequent urination
• persistent thirst

Conditions that give rise to pruritus — such as psoriasis, folliculitis, and allergies — may require medical attention.

When topical creams and antihistamine pills do not work to control the itch, a person may need to see a doctor to determine the exact cause.

Some people may experience an allergic skin reaction without knowing which substance caused the rash. In this case, a person may need to consult an allergist.

An itchy face is a common skin condition that, in severe or persistent cases, can affect quality of life.

Sometimes, the cause is dry skin. People with skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis may also experience itchiness on their face.

When a person has an itchy face but no rash or other visible marks, they require a thorough physical examination from a doctor to determine the cause.

Itchy face: Causes, symptoms, and treatment

A person may experience an itching sensation, or pruritus, on their face for a number of different reasons.

Although pruritus can occur due to visible conditions, such as psoriasis or an insect bite, it might also indicate the presence of an underlying condition.

This article will look at the different causes of pruritus on the face, as well as some options that may provide relief.

Dry skin on the face can be a cause of pruritus. A person might have dry skin on their face for many reasons.

These may include:

• frequent washing
• exposure to harsh chemicals
• low air humidity

The American Academy of Dermatology recommend following these tips to prevent dry skin:

• Use warm water for bathing and washing.
• Choose a mild, fragrant- and alcohol-free cleanser.
• Cleanse the face once per day at night, then rinse with cool water in the morning.
• Limit bath and shower time to 5–10 minutes.
• Apply moisturizers immediately after taking a bath or shower, while the skin is still damp, to lock in moisture.
• Shave after taking a bath or shower, and use a shaving cream or gel to soften the hairs.
• Change razor blades every five to seven uses.
• Apply cool cloths to the affected area.
• Apply a lip balm with petrolatum to soothe chapped lips.
• Wear a scarf to protect the face from exposure to cold temperatures.

Treatment

If pruritus occurs due to dry skin, a person can moisturize to ease the itching. The purpose of a moisturizer is to prevent water loss and add water to the skin.

Moisturizers contain different ingredients that serve different purposes. For example, occlusive moisturizers containing petrolatum prevent water loss from the skin by forming a barrier.

Humectants, such as urea and glycolic and lactic acids, attract and bind water to hydrate the skin.

Learn more about dry skin on the face here.

Pruritus appears to be particularly prevalent among older adults. As people age, their bodies’ pH levels can change. There may also be decreased hormone levels and a reduced ability to retain water.

As the skin retains less moisture and becomes thinner, this may cause dry skin and pruritus.

Treatment

Treatments for pruritus among older adults will depend on the cause. However, a person may be able to ease the itching by moisturizing the skin.

Learn how to improve skin health here.

Some people may experience pruritus on their face as a result of a mosquito bite.

Typically, a mosquito bite will clear up by itself. However, other bugs — including lice and bed bugs — may live or feed on the skin.

Treatment

Home treatment for bug bites may include:

• cleaning the area with soap and water
• applying a cold compress
• ïtaking over-the-counter pain relievers, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
• taking antihistamines

If a person is experiencing anaphylaxis, which is a severe allergic reaction, they or someone near them should seek immediate medical attention.

Symptoms of anaphylaxis may include wheezing, the feeling of a lump in the throat, abdominal pain, and vomiting.

Learn more about insect bites here.

People with the following skin conditions may experience pruritus on the face:

• chickenpox, which is an infectious viral disease
• folliculitis, which is a condition that causes hair follicles to become inflamed
• eczema, which is a condition wherein the skin can become itchy, red, cracked, and inflamed
• hives, which may occur due to an allergic reaction that causes swollen bumps on the skin to appear
• psoriasis, which is a chronic condition that causes red, scaly patches of skin to develop
• seborrheic dermatitis, which is a skin condition that affects the scalp
• ringworm, which is a fungal skin infection
• shingles, which is a viral infection that causes rashes

Treatment

To control the itch, a doctor will first need to diagnose the condition. Once they have confirmed the diagnosis, they can develop a treatment and management plan to provide relief from the itch.

Some treatments may include calamine lotion, topical medications, and antihistamines.

Learn more about skin conditions here.

A visible sign of skin cancer, or melanoma, is a new or changing spot on the skin. This spot may sometimes feel itchy.

In this case, pruritus may occur due to the skin’s reaction to a tumor becoming cancerous or to cancer forming elsewhere in the body.

Treatment

The treatment options for melanoma include cryotherapy, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and surgical excision.

To reduce the itch, a doctor may prescribe histone deacetylase inhibitors and oral corticosteroids.

Learn more about skin cancer here.

A long-term itch without a rash or any other visible marks may suggest that a person has an underlying condition.

Specifically, conditions that affect the blood, kidneys, liver, or thyroid gland can cause pruritus. Some people with diabetes and HIV may also experience pruritus.

People with chronic kidney failure who are close to requiring dialysis may have a chronic itch. In fact, researchers suggest that about 40% of people with end stage kidney failure experience pruritus.

Liver disease can also cause pruritus. According to one 2015 study, 69% of those with primary biliary cirrhosis experienced pruritus, and 75% of those people reported experiencing pruritus before receiving their diagnosis.

Chronic pruritus can affect a person’s mood and sleep, which may affect their quality of life.

Treatment

In these cases, treatment for pruritus will depend on the exact condition a person has. For example, people with liver disease may require creams or ointments for mild and local pruritus. Some may need systemic medications if the itch is severe or generalized.

Treatment for pruritus more generally may include opioid receptor antagonists, antihistamines, bile salts, and rifampicin.

People can develop allergic skin reactions to many different substances. Nickel, for example, is a common substance that can cause allergic reactions.

Many products that can come into contact with the face — including jewelry, cell phones, and eyeglass frames — may contain nickel.

People who develop an allergic reaction to a substance might develop a noticeable rash.

Treatment

In order to treat allergies that affect the skin, a person can use steroid creams or ointments.

Learn more about allergic reactions on the face here.

Some plant and marine life can cause pruritus.

Plant life

The following is a list of plants that may cause a reaction on the skin:

• poison ivy
• oak
• sumac
• strawberry
• garlic
• tomato
• comfrey
• borage
• rose hip
• hot peppers

Marine life

“Swimmer’s itch,” for example, may occur when a person develops an allergic reaction after coming into contact with parasites in a pond, lake, or ocean.

“Seabather’s eruption,” on the other hand, is a reaction that can occur when newly hatched jellyfish or sea anemones become trapped between a person’s skin and their swimsuit.

Treatment

Treatment for allergic reactions to plant and marine life includes steroids and antihistamines.

Some medications may cause itchy skin, including:

Treatment

In some cases, a person can stop taking a drug and replace it with another that does not cause pruritus.

Some people may not be able to change their medication, however, so they must discuss the treatment and management of this side effect with their doctor.

Learn more about side effects here.

Some people may have pruritus on the face as a result of nerve damage. Typically, pruritus due to nerve damage is localized.

Stroke and multiple sclerosis can both affect or damage the nerves, potentially resulting in pruritus.

Treatment

It can be difficult to treat pruritus that occurs due to nerve damage. However, person may use local anesthetics, gabapentin, or capsaicin patches to alleviate the itch.

There has not been much research into effective treatments for pruritus due to nerve damage.

Learn more about the nervous system here.

Health professionals suggest that almost everyone develops an allergic reaction on their skin at least once.

In making a diagnosis, they will examine the skin carefully. They may also ask about any current and past health concerns.

They may also ask about work, free time, pets, and skincare products to find the substance that caused the reaction.

Some people may need to undergo patch testing. For this, a doctor will place a patch containing small amounts of substances that may cause an allergic reaction on the skin. A few days later, they will remove the patch and check the skin to see if another rash appears.

People with underlying health conditions may require a full medical examination to determine the cause of the itch.

People experiencing pruritus should consult with a doctor, as this can be a symptom of several chronic health conditions.

Other symptoms that may point to an underlying condition include:

• nausea
• pain in the upper right side of the abdomen
• dark urine
• jaundice, or a yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes
• anorexia
• vomiting
• anxiety
• fatigue
• sensitivity to heat
• muscle weakness
• diarrhea
• frequent urination
• persistent thirst

Conditions that give rise to pruritus — such as psoriasis, folliculitis, and allergies — may require medical attention.

When topical creams and antihistamine pills do not work to control the itch, a person may need to see a doctor to determine the exact cause.

Some people may experience an allergic skin reaction without knowing which substance caused the rash. In this case, a person may need to consult an allergist.

An itchy face is a common skin condition that, in severe or persistent cases, can affect quality of life.

Sometimes, the cause is dry skin. People with skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis may also experience itchiness on their face.

When a person has an itchy face but no rash or other visible marks, they require a thorough physical examination from a doctor to determine the cause.

Itchy face: Causes, symptoms, and treatment

A person may experience an itching sensation, or pruritus, on their face for a number of different reasons.

Although pruritus can occur due to visible conditions, such as psoriasis or an insect bite, it might also indicate the presence of an underlying condition.

This article will look at the different causes of pruritus on the face, as well as some options that may provide relief.

Dry skin on the face can be a cause of pruritus. A person might have dry skin on their face for many reasons.

These may include:

• frequent washing
• exposure to harsh chemicals
• low air humidity

The American Academy of Dermatology recommend following these tips to prevent dry skin:

• Use warm water for bathing and washing.
• Choose a mild, fragrant- and alcohol-free cleanser.
• Cleanse the face once per day at night, then rinse with cool water in the morning.
• Limit bath and shower time to 5–10 minutes.
• Apply moisturizers immediately after taking a bath or shower, while the skin is still damp, to lock in moisture.
• Shave after taking a bath or shower, and use a shaving cream or gel to soften the hairs.
• Change razor blades every five to seven uses.
• Apply cool cloths to the affected area.
• Apply a lip balm with petrolatum to soothe chapped lips.
• Wear a scarf to protect the face from exposure to cold temperatures.

Treatment

If pruritus occurs due to dry skin, a person can moisturize to ease the itching. The purpose of a moisturizer is to prevent water loss and add water to the skin.

Moisturizers contain different ingredients that serve different purposes. For example, occlusive moisturizers containing petrolatum prevent water loss from the skin by forming a barrier.

Humectants, such as urea and glycolic and lactic acids, attract and bind water to hydrate the skin.

Learn more about dry skin on the face here.

Pruritus appears to be particularly prevalent among older adults. As people age, their bodies’ pH levels can change. There may also be decreased hormone levels and a reduced ability to retain water.

As the skin retains less moisture and becomes thinner, this may cause dry skin and pruritus.

Treatment

Treatments for pruritus among older adults will depend on the cause. However, a person may be able to ease the itching by moisturizing the skin.

Learn how to improve skin health here.

Some people may experience pruritus on their face as a result of a mosquito bite.

Typically, a mosquito bite will clear up by itself. However, other bugs — including lice and bed bugs — may live or feed on the skin.

Treatment

Home treatment for bug bites may include:

• cleaning the area with soap and water
• applying a cold compress
• ïtaking over-the-counter pain relievers, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
• taking antihistamines

If a person is experiencing anaphylaxis, which is a severe allergic reaction, they or someone near them should seek immediate medical attention.

Symptoms of anaphylaxis may include wheezing, the feeling of a lump in the throat, abdominal pain, and vomiting.

Learn more about insect bites here.

People with the following skin conditions may experience pruritus on the face:

• chickenpox, which is an infectious viral disease
• folliculitis, which is a condition that causes hair follicles to become inflamed
• eczema, which is a condition wherein the skin can become itchy, red, cracked, and inflamed
• hives, which may occur due to an allergic reaction that causes swollen bumps on the skin to appear
• psoriasis, which is a chronic condition that causes red, scaly patches of skin to develop
• seborrheic dermatitis, which is a skin condition that affects the scalp
• ringworm, which is a fungal skin infection
• shingles, which is a viral infection that causes rashes

Treatment

To control the itch, a doctor will first need to diagnose the condition. Once they have confirmed the diagnosis, they can develop a treatment and management plan to provide relief from the itch.

Some treatments may include calamine lotion, topical medications, and antihistamines.

Learn more about skin conditions here.

A visible sign of skin cancer, or melanoma, is a new or changing spot on the skin. This spot may sometimes feel itchy.

In this case, pruritus may occur due to the skin’s reaction to a tumor becoming cancerous or to cancer forming elsewhere in the body.

Treatment

The treatment options for melanoma include cryotherapy, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and surgical excision.

To reduce the itch, a doctor may prescribe histone deacetylase inhibitors and oral corticosteroids.

Learn more about skin cancer here.

A long-term itch without a rash or any other visible marks may suggest that a person has an underlying condition.

Specifically, conditions that affect the blood, kidneys, liver, or thyroid gland can cause pruritus. Some people with diabetes and HIV may also experience pruritus.

People with chronic kidney failure who are close to requiring dialysis may have a chronic itch. In fact, researchers suggest that about 40% of people with end stage kidney failure experience pruritus.

Liver disease can also cause pruritus. According to one 2015 study, 69% of those with primary biliary cirrhosis experienced pruritus, and 75% of those people reported experiencing pruritus before receiving their diagnosis.

Chronic pruritus can affect a person’s mood and sleep, which may affect their quality of life.

Treatment

In these cases, treatment for pruritus will depend on the exact condition a person has. For example, people with liver disease may require creams or ointments for mild and local pruritus. Some may need systemic medications if the itch is severe or generalized.

Treatment for pruritus more generally may include opioid receptor antagonists, antihistamines, bile salts, and rifampicin.

People can develop allergic skin reactions to many different substances. Nickel, for example, is a common substance that can cause allergic reactions.

Many products that can come into contact with the face — including jewelry, cell phones, and eyeglass frames — may contain nickel.

People who develop an allergic reaction to a substance might develop a noticeable rash.

Treatment

In order to treat allergies that affect the skin, a person can use steroid creams or ointments.

Learn more about allergic reactions on the face here.

Some plant and marine life can cause pruritus.

Plant life

The following is a list of plants that may cause a reaction on the skin:

• poison ivy
• oak
• sumac
• strawberry
• garlic
• tomato
• comfrey
• borage
• rose hip
• hot peppers

Marine life

“Swimmer’s itch,” for example, may occur when a person develops an allergic reaction after coming into contact with parasites in a pond, lake, or ocean.

“Seabather’s eruption,” on the other hand, is a reaction that can occur when newly hatched jellyfish or sea anemones become trapped between a person’s skin and their swimsuit.

Treatment

Treatment for allergic reactions to plant and marine life includes steroids and antihistamines.

Some medications may cause itchy skin, including:

Treatment

In some cases, a person can stop taking a drug and replace it with another that does not cause pruritus.

Some people may not be able to change their medication, however, so they must discuss the treatment and management of this side effect with their doctor.

Learn more about side effects here.

Some people may have pruritus on the face as a result of nerve damage. Typically, pruritus due to nerve damage is localized.

Stroke and multiple sclerosis can both affect or damage the nerves, potentially resulting in pruritus.

Treatment

It can be difficult to treat pruritus that occurs due to nerve damage. However, person may use local anesthetics, gabapentin, or capsaicin patches to alleviate the itch.

There has not been much research into effective treatments for pruritus due to nerve damage.

Learn more about the nervous system here.

Health professionals suggest that almost everyone develops an allergic reaction on their skin at least once.

In making a diagnosis, they will examine the skin carefully. They may also ask about any current and past health concerns.

They may also ask about work, free time, pets, and skincare products to find the substance that caused the reaction.

Some people may need to undergo patch testing. For this, a doctor will place a patch containing small amounts of substances that may cause an allergic reaction on the skin. A few days later, they will remove the patch and check the skin to see if another rash appears.

People with underlying health conditions may require a full medical examination to determine the cause of the itch.

People experiencing pruritus should consult with a doctor, as this can be a symptom of several chronic health conditions.

Other symptoms that may point to an underlying condition include:

• nausea
• pain in the upper right side of the abdomen
• dark urine
• jaundice, or a yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes
• anorexia
• vomiting
• anxiety
• fatigue
• sensitivity to heat
• muscle weakness
• diarrhea
• frequent urination
• persistent thirst

Conditions that give rise to pruritus — such as psoriasis, folliculitis, and allergies — may require medical attention.

When topical creams and antihistamine pills do not work to control the itch, a person may need to see a doctor to determine the exact cause.

Some people may experience an allergic skin reaction without knowing which substance caused the rash. In this case, a person may need to consult an allergist.

An itchy face is a common skin condition that, in severe or persistent cases, can affect quality of life.

Sometimes, the cause is dry skin. People with skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis may also experience itchiness on their face.

When a person has an itchy face but no rash or other visible marks, they require a thorough physical examination from a doctor to determine the cause.

Itchy face: Causes, symptoms, and treatment

A person may experience an itching sensation, or pruritus, on their face for a number of different reasons.

Although pruritus can occur due to visible conditions, such as psoriasis or an insect bite, it might also indicate the presence of an underlying condition.

This article will look at the different causes of pruritus on the face, as well as some options that may provide relief.

Dry skin on the face can be a cause of pruritus. A person might have dry skin on their face for many reasons.

These may include:

• frequent washing
• exposure to harsh chemicals
• low air humidity

The American Academy of Dermatology recommend following these tips to prevent dry skin:

• Use warm water for bathing and washing.
• Choose a mild, fragrant- and alcohol-free cleanser.
• Cleanse the face once per day at night, then rinse with cool water in the morning.
• Limit bath and shower time to 5–10 minutes.
• Apply moisturizers immediately after taking a bath or shower, while the skin is still damp, to lock in moisture.
• Shave after taking a bath or shower, and use a shaving cream or gel to soften the hairs.
• Change razor blades every five to seven uses.
• Apply cool cloths to the affected area.
• Apply a lip balm with petrolatum to soothe chapped lips.
• Wear a scarf to protect the face from exposure to cold temperatures.

Treatment

If pruritus occurs due to dry skin, a person can moisturize to ease the itching. The purpose of a moisturizer is to prevent water loss and add water to the skin.

Moisturizers contain different ingredients that serve different purposes. For example, occlusive moisturizers containing petrolatum prevent water loss from the skin by forming a barrier.

Humectants, such as urea and glycolic and lactic acids, attract and bind water to hydrate the skin.

Learn more about dry skin on the face here.

Pruritus appears to be particularly prevalent among older adults. As people age, their bodies’ pH levels can change. There may also be decreased hormone levels and a reduced ability to retain water.

As the skin retains less moisture and becomes thinner, this may cause dry skin and pruritus.

Treatment

Treatments for pruritus among older adults will depend on the cause. However, a person may be able to ease the itching by moisturizing the skin.

Learn how to improve skin health here.

Some people may experience pruritus on their face as a result of a mosquito bite.

Typically, a mosquito bite will clear up by itself. However, other bugs — including lice and bed bugs — may live or feed on the skin.

Treatment

Home treatment for bug bites may include:

• cleaning the area with soap and water
• applying a cold compress
• ïtaking over-the-counter pain relievers, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
• taking antihistamines

If a person is experiencing anaphylaxis, which is a severe allergic reaction, they or someone near them should seek immediate medical attention.

Symptoms of anaphylaxis may include wheezing, the feeling of a lump in the throat, abdominal pain, and vomiting.

Learn more about insect bites here.

People with the following skin conditions may experience pruritus on the face:

• chickenpox, which is an infectious viral disease
• folliculitis, which is a condition that causes hair follicles to become inflamed
• eczema, which is a condition wherein the skin can become itchy, red, cracked, and inflamed
• hives, which may occur due to an allergic reaction that causes swollen bumps on the skin to appear
• psoriasis, which is a chronic condition that causes red, scaly patches of skin to develop
• seborrheic dermatitis, which is a skin condition that affects the scalp
• ringworm, which is a fungal skin infection
• shingles, which is a viral infection that causes rashes

Treatment

To control the itch, a doctor will first need to diagnose the condition. Once they have confirmed the diagnosis, they can develop a treatment and management plan to provide relief from the itch.

Some treatments may include calamine lotion, topical medications, and antihistamines.

Learn more about skin conditions here.

A visible sign of skin cancer, or melanoma, is a new or changing spot on the skin. This spot may sometimes feel itchy.

In this case, pruritus may occur due to the skin’s reaction to a tumor becoming cancerous or to cancer forming elsewhere in the body.

Treatment

The treatment options for melanoma include cryotherapy, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and surgical excision.

To reduce the itch, a doctor may prescribe histone deacetylase inhibitors and oral corticosteroids.

Learn more about skin cancer here.

A long-term itch without a rash or any other visible marks may suggest that a person has an underlying condition.

Specifically, conditions that affect the blood, kidneys, liver, or thyroid gland can cause pruritus. Some people with diabetes and HIV may also experience pruritus.

People with chronic kidney failure who are close to requiring dialysis may have a chronic itch. In fact, researchers suggest that about 40% of people with end stage kidney failure experience pruritus.

Liver disease can also cause pruritus. According to one 2015 study, 69% of those with primary biliary cirrhosis experienced pruritus, and 75% of those people reported experiencing pruritus before receiving their diagnosis.

Chronic pruritus can affect a person’s mood and sleep, which may affect their quality of life.

Treatment

In these cases, treatment for pruritus will depend on the exact condition a person has. For example, people with liver disease may require creams or ointments for mild and local pruritus. Some may need systemic medications if the itch is severe or generalized.

Treatment for pruritus more generally may include opioid receptor antagonists, antihistamines, bile salts, and rifampicin.

People can develop allergic skin reactions to many different substances. Nickel, for example, is a common substance that can cause allergic reactions.

Many products that can come into contact with the face — including jewelry, cell phones, and eyeglass frames — may contain nickel.

People who develop an allergic reaction to a substance might develop a noticeable rash.

Treatment

In order to treat allergies that affect the skin, a person can use steroid creams or ointments.

Learn more about allergic reactions on the face here.

Some plant and marine life can cause pruritus.

Plant life

The following is a list of plants that may cause a reaction on the skin:

• poison ivy
• oak
• sumac
• strawberry
• garlic
• tomato
• comfrey
• borage
• rose hip
• hot peppers

Marine life

“Swimmer’s itch,” for example, may occur when a person develops an allergic reaction after coming into contact with parasites in a pond, lake, or ocean.

“Seabather’s eruption,” on the other hand, is a reaction that can occur when newly hatched jellyfish or sea anemones become trapped between a person’s skin and their swimsuit.

Treatment

Treatment for allergic reactions to plant and marine life includes steroids and antihistamines.

Some medications may cause itchy skin, including:

Treatment

In some cases, a person can stop taking a drug and replace it with another that does not cause pruritus.

Some people may not be able to change their medication, however, so they must discuss the treatment and management of this side effect with their doctor.

Learn more about side effects here.

Some people may have pruritus on the face as a result of nerve damage. Typically, pruritus due to nerve damage is localized.

Stroke and multiple sclerosis can both affect or damage the nerves, potentially resulting in pruritus.

Treatment

It can be difficult to treat pruritus that occurs due to nerve damage. However, person may use local anesthetics, gabapentin, or capsaicin patches to alleviate the itch.

There has not been much research into effective treatments for pruritus due to nerve damage.

Learn more about the nervous system here.

Health professionals suggest that almost everyone develops an allergic reaction on their skin at least once.

In making a diagnosis, they will examine the skin carefully. They may also ask about any current and past health concerns.

They may also ask about work, free time, pets, and skincare products to find the substance that caused the reaction.

Some people may need to undergo patch testing. For this, a doctor will place a patch containing small amounts of substances that may cause an allergic reaction on the skin. A few days later, they will remove the patch and check the skin to see if another rash appears.

People with underlying health conditions may require a full medical examination to determine the cause of the itch.

People experiencing pruritus should consult with a doctor, as this can be a symptom of several chronic health conditions.

Other symptoms that may point to an underlying condition include:

• nausea
• pain in the upper right side of the abdomen
• dark urine
• jaundice, or a yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes
• anorexia
• vomiting
• anxiety
• fatigue
• sensitivity to heat
• muscle weakness
• diarrhea
• frequent urination
• persistent thirst

Conditions that give rise to pruritus — such as psoriasis, folliculitis, and allergies — may require medical attention.

When topical creams and antihistamine pills do not work to control the itch, a person may need to see a doctor to determine the exact cause.

Some people may experience an allergic skin reaction without knowing which substance caused the rash. In this case, a person may need to consult an allergist.

An itchy face is a common skin condition that, in severe or persistent cases, can affect quality of life.

Sometimes, the cause is dry skin. People with skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis may also experience itchiness on their face.

When a person has an itchy face but no rash or other visible marks, they require a thorough physical examination from a doctor to determine the cause.

Itchy face: Causes, symptoms, and treatment

A person may experience an itching sensation, or pruritus, on their face for a number of different reasons.

Although pruritus can occur due to visible conditions, such as psoriasis or an insect bite, it might also indicate the presence of an underlying condition.

This article will look at the different causes of pruritus on the face, as well as some options that may provide relief.

Dry skin on the face can be a cause of pruritus. A person might have dry skin on their face for many reasons.

These may include:

• frequent washing
• exposure to harsh chemicals
• low air humidity

The American Academy of Dermatology recommend following these tips to prevent dry skin:

• Use warm water for bathing and washing.
• Choose a mild, fragrant- and alcohol-free cleanser.
• Cleanse the face once per day at night, then rinse with cool water in the morning.
• Limit bath and shower time to 5–10 minutes.
• Apply moisturizers immediately after taking a bath or shower, while the skin is still damp, to lock in moisture.
• Shave after taking a bath or shower, and use a shaving cream or gel to soften the hairs.
• Change razor blades every five to seven uses.
• Apply cool cloths to the affected area.
• Apply a lip balm with petrolatum to soothe chapped lips.
• Wear a scarf to protect the face from exposure to cold temperatures.

Treatment

If pruritus occurs due to dry skin, a person can moisturize to ease the itching. The purpose of a moisturizer is to prevent water loss and add water to the skin.

Moisturizers contain different ingredients that serve different purposes. For example, occlusive moisturizers containing petrolatum prevent water loss from the skin by forming a barrier.

Humectants, such as urea and glycolic and lactic acids, attract and bind water to hydrate the skin.

Learn more about dry skin on the face here.

Pruritus appears to be particularly prevalent among older adults. As people age, their bodies’ pH levels can change. There may also be decreased hormone levels and a reduced ability to retain water.

As the skin retains less moisture and becomes thinner, this may cause dry skin and pruritus.

Treatment

Treatments for pruritus among older adults will depend on the cause. However, a person may be able to ease the itching by moisturizing the skin.

Learn how to improve skin health here.

Some people may experience pruritus on their face as a result of a mosquito bite.

Typically, a mosquito bite will clear up by itself. However, other bugs — including lice and bed bugs — may live or feed on the skin.

Treatment

Home treatment for bug bites may include:

• cleaning the area with soap and water
• applying a cold compress
• ïtaking over-the-counter pain relievers, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
• taking antihistamines

If a person is experiencing anaphylaxis, which is a severe allergic reaction, they or someone near them should seek immediate medical attention.

Symptoms of anaphylaxis may include wheezing, the feeling of a lump in the throat, abdominal pain, and vomiting.

Learn more about insect bites here.

People with the following skin conditions may experience pruritus on the face:

• chickenpox, which is an infectious viral disease
• folliculitis, which is a condition that causes hair follicles to become inflamed
• eczema, which is a condition wherein the skin can become itchy, red, cracked, and inflamed
• hives, which may occur due to an allergic reaction that causes swollen bumps on the skin to appear
• psoriasis, which is a chronic condition that causes red, scaly patches of skin to develop
• seborrheic dermatitis, which is a skin condition that affects the scalp
• ringworm, which is a fungal skin infection
• shingles, which is a viral infection that causes rashes

Treatment

To control the itch, a doctor will first need to diagnose the condition. Once they have confirmed the diagnosis, they can develop a treatment and management plan to provide relief from the itch.

Some treatments may include calamine lotion, topical medications, and antihistamines.

Learn more about skin conditions here.

A visible sign of skin cancer, or melanoma, is a new or changing spot on the skin. This spot may sometimes feel itchy.

In this case, pruritus may occur due to the skin’s reaction to a tumor becoming cancerous or to cancer forming elsewhere in the body.

Treatment

The treatment options for melanoma include cryotherapy, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and surgical excision.

To reduce the itch, a doctor may prescribe histone deacetylase inhibitors and oral corticosteroids.

Learn more about skin cancer here.

A long-term itch without a rash or any other visible marks may suggest that a person has an underlying condition.

Specifically, conditions that affect the blood, kidneys, liver, or thyroid gland can cause pruritus. Some people with diabetes and HIV may also experience pruritus.

People with chronic kidney failure who are close to requiring dialysis may have a chronic itch. In fact, researchers suggest that about 40% of people with end stage kidney failure experience pruritus.

Liver disease can also cause pruritus. According to one 2015 study, 69% of those with primary biliary cirrhosis experienced pruritus, and 75% of those people reported experiencing pruritus before receiving their diagnosis.

Chronic pruritus can affect a person’s mood and sleep, which may affect their quality of life.

Treatment

In these cases, treatment for pruritus will depend on the exact condition a person has. For example, people with liver disease may require creams or ointments for mild and local pruritus. Some may need systemic medications if the itch is severe or generalized.

Treatment for pruritus more generally may include opioid receptor antagonists, antihistamines, bile salts, and rifampicin.

People can develop allergic skin reactions to many different substances. Nickel, for example, is a common substance that can cause allergic reactions.

Many products that can come into contact with the face — including jewelry, cell phones, and eyeglass frames — may contain nickel.

People who develop an allergic reaction to a substance might develop a noticeable rash.

Treatment

In order to treat allergies that affect the skin, a person can use steroid creams or ointments.

Learn more about allergic reactions on the face here.

Some plant and marine life can cause pruritus.

Plant life

The following is a list of plants that may cause a reaction on the skin:

• poison ivy
• oak
• sumac
• strawberry
• garlic
• tomato
• comfrey
• borage
• rose hip
• hot peppers

Marine life

“Swimmer’s itch,” for example, may occur when a person develops an allergic reaction after coming into contact with parasites in a pond, lake, or ocean.

“Seabather’s eruption,” on the other hand, is a reaction that can occur when newly hatched jellyfish or sea anemones become trapped between a person’s skin and their swimsuit.

Treatment

Treatment for allergic reactions to plant and marine life includes steroids and antihistamines.

Some medications may cause itchy skin, including:

Treatment

In some cases, a person can stop taking a drug and replace it with another that does not cause pruritus.

Some people may not be able to change their medication, however, so they must discuss the treatment and management of this side effect with their doctor.

Learn more about side effects here.

Some people may have pruritus on the face as a result of nerve damage. Typically, pruritus due to nerve damage is localized.

Stroke and multiple sclerosis can both affect or damage the nerves, potentially resulting in pruritus.

Treatment

It can be difficult to treat pruritus that occurs due to nerve damage. However, person may use local anesthetics, gabapentin, or capsaicin patches to alleviate the itch.

There has not been much research into effective treatments for pruritus due to nerve damage.

Learn more about the nervous system here.

Health professionals suggest that almost everyone develops an allergic reaction on their skin at least once.

In making a diagnosis, they will examine the skin carefully. They may also ask about any current and past health concerns.

They may also ask about work, free time, pets, and skincare products to find the substance that caused the reaction.

Some people may need to undergo patch testing. For this, a doctor will place a patch containing small amounts of substances that may cause an allergic reaction on the skin. A few days later, they will remove the patch and check the skin to see if another rash appears.

People with underlying health conditions may require a full medical examination to determine the cause of the itch.

People experiencing pruritus should consult with a doctor, as this can be a symptom of several chronic health conditions.

Other symptoms that may point to an underlying condition include:

• nausea
• pain in the upper right side of the abdomen
• dark urine
• jaundice, or a yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes
• anorexia
• vomiting
• anxiety
• fatigue
• sensitivity to heat
• muscle weakness
• diarrhea
• frequent urination
• persistent thirst

Conditions that give rise to pruritus — such as psoriasis, folliculitis, and allergies — may require medical attention.

When topical creams and antihistamine pills do not work to control the itch, a person may need to see a doctor to determine the exact cause.

Some people may experience an allergic skin reaction without knowing which substance caused the rash. In this case, a person may need to consult an allergist.

An itchy face is a common skin condition that, in severe or persistent cases, can affect quality of life.

Sometimes, the cause is dry skin. People with skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis may also experience itchiness on their face.

When a person has an itchy face but no rash or other visible marks, they require a thorough physical examination from a doctor to determine the cause.

Itchy Face Causes and Treatment

When your face itches, it’s distracting and can be difficult to control. This happens often in the winter and during allergy season for many reasons. Learn more about why it happens and how you might find relief.

Common Causes of an Itchy Face

Verywell / Nusha Ashjaee

There are several causes of an itchy face that are the usual culprits:

• Seasonal allergies: Seasonal or environmental allergies notoriously cause itching, specifically an itchy face.
• Dry skin: Some people get patches of dry skin on their face that can be very itchy.
• Eczema: More than just dry skin, eczema is extremely itchy and can be difficult to treat. Flare-ups of eczema can be caused by allergies as well.
• Food and medication allergies: Similar to seasonal allergies, allergic reactions to food and medications can cause an itchy face.
• ​Rosacea: This skin condition can also cause tingling or stinging on the cheeks.

If facial itching is accompanied by tongue or throat swelling, difficulty breathing or vomiting, seek medical attention immediately. These could be signs of a life-threatening allergic reaction called anaphylaxis.

Treatment

If your itchy face isn’t life-threatening but is bothersome, there are things you can do to help. If you are itching due to allergies, taking allergy medication may provide relief.

If you have tried over the counter allergy medications and they haven’t worked, make an appointment with an allergist. There may be other medications that could help.

If you experience itchy skin due to dryness, lotion or moisturizers may help. If you have eczema or another skin condition diagnosed by your healthcare provider, talk to them about the appropriate treatment for you.

Other things you can do to improve dryness and reduce the chances that your skin will itch include staying hydrated (drink plenty of water) and using a humidifier when you are indoors, especially during the winter.

Cold winter air is irritating to the skin and heaters in our homes and offices dry the air as well. Adding moisture back into the environment with a humidifier could help.

However, taking hot showers can actually make the problem worse. Showering with warm water is fine but hot water can irritate your skin.

Although the itchy skin is rarely serious, damage from scratching can lead to infections that could be serious. Be sure to seek treatment if you notice pain, redness, swelling, or develop a fever.

If you have tried all of these remedies and still don’t have relief, talk to your healthcare provider. There could be a different cause or treatment for the problem that you aren’t aware of.

Why Are You Scratching Constantly? – SkinKraft

With the growing coronavirus pandemic, we have all been advised not to touch our faces. But did you know that you should avoid touching it even when your facial skin feels itchy or irritated?

An itchy face can be caused due to various factors like dry skin or an allergic reaction to something you ate, contact with a plant or sunburn. But fret not, there are many ways to take care of the problem besides medication. We tell you what to do and what not to when your face is itching.

Highlights:

What Causes Itching On The Face And How To Treat?

Itching on the face is also known as Pruritus [1]. It is the skin’s defence mechanism to irritants — external or internal. Here are some of the most common causes of itching:

1. Sunburns

Excessive sun exposure can cause sunburn and the skin shrivels up. As it dries and stretches out, it begins to peel and leads to itching.

How To Treat:

Topical application of a calamine solution helps to calm the itch. An oatmeal bath also helps soothe the itch. For people with sensitive or acne-prone skin, a hypoallergenic moisturising lotion will help.

2. Itchy Face And Acne

At times, acne or pimples cause itching. Scratching may spread the bacteria, which in turn increases the itching and acne. It can also be caused due to cosmetics, blocked pores or an allergic reaction to a topically applied cosmetic.

How To Treat:

If it is a severe case, it is best to consult a doctor. Even placing a wet clean piece of muslin cloth can reduce the urge to itch and soothe the skin. Topical application of calamine or hypoallergenic moisturisers can also help. [2]

3. Itchy Face With Rash

If you have a rash and want to scratch your face, it could be a reaction to an irritant or something you are allergic to. Skin conditions like psoriasis [3] and rosacea [4] are known to cause itching on the face. It could also be due to heat, what we call prickly heat.

How To Treat:

Application of a generic antihistamine [5] cream can reduce the itch and the rash. Even a calamine lotion can help. However, if you see no improvement after applying a few times, consult a doctor. Sometimes a steroidal cream with hydrocortisone [6] may be prescribed.

4. Itchy Face Without A Rash

If you have an itchy face and no rash or any other symptoms, it could be an allergic reaction to something you ate or touched; dry skin or even an iron deficiency [7] in your blood. Sometimes, even hard water can cause your skin to itch.

How To Treat:

If it is an allergic reaction, an antihistamine can help. Dry skin can be treated with a hypoallergenic or emollient rich moisturiser. If it is due to hard water, use a moisturising body wash or soap that contains natural oils.

5. Food Allergy

If you eat something that triggers an allergic reaction like a rash or an itch, it means you have a food allergy to that particular substance. Peanuts, shellfish, soy, wheat (the gluten in wheat), eggs and seafood are commonly known food items that can cause an allergic reaction.

How To Treat:

An anti-allergy tablet usually helps. But if the reaction is severe, like swelling on the face or limbs, nausea, or difficulty in breathing, it is best to consult a doctor immediately.

6. Pregnancy

Not a very common occurrence is facial itching during a pregnancy. There is usually no rash, but if it is on other parts of your body too, it could be a condition called obstetric cholestasis [8], which usually affects the liver.

How To Treat:

Since it is a condition that occurs during a pregnancy, it is best to see your obstetrician or gynaecologist right away.

7. Bug Bite

Whether it is a mosquito, a bed bug or a bite from an insect, if bitten on the face, there is a strong urge to itch. If the bite leads to a rash, the itching sensation can last for long and can sting too at times. Sometimes, there is a small bump or swelling on the spot where bitten.

How To Treat:

Most home remedies like applying honey or an oatmeal paste or even an ice pack can quell the urge to itch and even reduce the inflammation. Aloe vera gel and honey can soothe the itching almost instantly.

8. Allergic Reactions

Some medications cause side effects like itching, with or without a rash. Antibiotics, pain medication and anti-fungal medicines can cause itching. If you are allergic to sulphur for example, it is best to stay away from medicines that contain sulphur.

How To Treat:

For a medicine related itch or rash, it is best to consult a doctor. Topical home remedies used, if any, can provide temporary relief from the itch. But if you decide to discontinue the medicine, it should be done on the advice of the doctor who prescribed it.

9. Neural Disorders

When the nerve endings on your face sense a trigger or an irritant that can cause an itch, it is known as a neuropathic itch [9] caused by a sensory hallucination. It is usually triggered when you have nerve-related health conditions like multiple sclerosis or even shingles.

How To Treat:

We suggest you see a doctor if you have this condition as the medication prescribed will be linked to the ailment you have. Avoid self-medication.

Home Remedies To Soothe An Itchy Face

• Grind oatmeal to a fine paste dissolved in water and apply on the skin. It will soothe the skin and control the urge to itch.
• Dip a thin piece of cotton cloth, large enough to cover your face in cold water. Apply on the face to soothe the itch. Repeat the process for upto ten minutes.
• If it is a bad case of sunburn, apply cold milk to the sunburnt area. It will calm the itch and moisturise the dry skin. This is only for people with dry skin, not for those with oily or sensitive skin.
• Make a paste of baking soda and water and apply to the itchy part of the face. Or you can add a quarter cup to a bucket of warm water and bathe with this solution.

What Not To Do When Your Face Itches?

When your face itches, you must not scratch it. Scratching may aggravate it further and lead to an itch-scratch cycle. If you have acne and you scratch your face, it can lead to a pimple burst, which will spread the bacteria. Some itches like those of a bug bite may even bleed if you scratch. Avoid the triggers that cause itching on the face as much as possible.

Tips To Prevent Face Itching

• Keep your skin moisturised. For dry and itchy skin, use an oil-based moisturiser which is hypoallergenic in nature. This will prevent itching and relieve dry skin by nourishing it with much-needed moisture.
• Always shower with lukewarm water and use products which are gentle and do not have strong fragrance. Avoid washing clothes with detergents that have strong chemicals.
• If your dermatologist has prescribed a topical medication, always apply it before you apply your moisturiser. This increases the medicated cream’s efficacy as it is better absorbed into freshly washed skin.
• If you are stressed because of exams or job pressure, find avenues to reduce your stress levels, as stress will increase your urge to itch. [10]
• Avoid excessive temperature changes like being in an air conditioned room and stepping out into the heat constantly.
• To prevent itching due to insect bites, use a protective cream when you are outdoors; and keep your home free from mosquitoes and other stinging insects to minimise the problem.
• Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated at all times.

When To See A Doctor?

• If your itching gets worse over a period of ten days or more.
• If you get no relief despite using OTC creams and lotions, including steroidal ones.
• If the itching started without a rash and now has spread to a rash.
• If the itching has other symptoms like a fever, weight loss or fatigue.
• If constant scratching leads to broken skin that could get infected.

Wrapping Up

As with any other skin condition that persists, if your urge to itch on the face does not subside in a few days, consult a qualified professional. While the underlying causes can be several, most of them are treatable and subside with the right treatment.

Begin By Knowing Your Skin

90,000 Treatment of atopic dermatitis at the EMC Clinic of Dermatovenereology and Allergology-Immunology in Moscow

The problem of one of the most common skin diseases – atopic dermatitis or neurodermatitis – is becoming more and more urgent. This is an inflammatory skin lesion of an allergic nature, which can be caused by many different factors – allergens entering the body with food, by contact (by contact with the skin) or by respiratory (by inhalation of pollen, dust).The main manifestations are: skin rashes, most often in places of large folds, face, neck, and most importantly – itching. Beginning, as a rule, in childhood, the disease becomes chronic and proceeds with periods of exacerbations.

Symptoms

One of the main symptoms of atopic dermatitis is pruritus. Its intensity ranges from a mild, short-lived itch to excruciating constant itching, forcing a person to scratch the skin. Itching, which lasts for a long time, causes severe suffering, insomnia and psycho-emotional discomfort.

Causes, prevention, skin care

In atopic dermatitis, itchy skin can be provoked even by seemingly harmless factors, such as clothing and moisture. That is why patients are advised to wear natural light-colored fabrics and avoid strenuous physical activity. Detergents, even in small amounts remaining on freshly washed linen and clothes, can irritate the skin, therefore it is recommended to use hypoallergenic detergents based on soap – with repeated rinsing cycles of the linen.You should also exclude external agents containing fragrances and preservatives, and try new cosmetic products first on a small area of ​​the skin.

Particular attention should be paid to cleansing and moisturizing the skin. atopic dermatitis is characterized by increased dryness, which is caused by disturbances in lipid metabolism of the skin. Impaired barrier function can lead to the development of secondary bacterial, viral and fungal infections. That is why the skin with atopic dermatitis requires special care: shower cleansers (“soap without soap”), as well as bath oils; after washing without rubbing the skin, immediately apply a moisturizer.Moisturizers and balms are applied several times a day if necessary.

Diagnosis and treatment of atopic dermatitis

Diet is of great importance in the treatment of atopic dermatitis. This is especially true for children, since it is at an early age that food allergies are the main cause of exacerbations. The most common foods that cause allergic reactions include milk, eggs, chicken meat, nuts, wheat, fish and seafood, brightly colored vegetables and fruits (especially citrus fruits), etc.However, almost any product can cause an allergic reaction, therefore, the selection of a diet is carried out strictly individually on the basis of the survey. Diagnosis of atopic dermatitis begins with a mandatory visit to a dermatologist-allergist. Advanced allergy diagnostics includes laboratory blood tests for allergens, diagnostics of food intolerances, molecular diagnostics, and prick tests.

The prognosis of the course of atopic dermatitis largely depends on the reliability of knowledge about the individual causes of the development of skin rashes and itching, on the careful implementation of all the doctor’s recommendations and timely prevention.The main directions of prevention are adherence to the diet and proper skin care. Diagnosis of food allergies is of the greatest importance, as it allows you to identify and objectively assess the degree of a patient’s allergic reaction to various foods. Strict adherence to the diet facilitates the course of the disease and ultimately gives the desired result.

The European Medical Center (Moscow) carries out the most modern methods of laboratory allergy diagnostics, and the doctors of the Clinic of Dermatovenereology and Allergology-Immunology are ready to offer the knowledge and experience gained during many years of training abroad to achieve the best results in treatment.

Patient story: Exacerbation of severe atopic dermatitis

90,000 Treatment of depression in the Clinic of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy – EMC Clinic in Moscow

Along with anxiety disorders, depression is one of the most common mental disorders. Depressive episodes can develop as an independent disease or accompany bipolar affective and recurrent depressive disorders, often occur with organic brain diseases (epilepsy, psychoorganic syndrome, mental pathology of late age, the consequences of traumatic brain injury).

In everyday life, you can often hear: “I have depression.” At the same time, depression means a bad mood that has arisen for a variety of reasons: an umbrella forgotten at home in rainy weather, the absence of a bonus expected at the end of the year, a conflict with a teenage son, etc. However, a bad mood does not mean depression. Depression is a complex of symptoms.

Symptoms of depression

One of its signs is a prolonged lack of mood (more than 2 weeks).Moreover, no external circumstances (a joke, a pleasant meeting, joyful and long-awaited events) can change him. In some cases, a person may experience unreasonable anxiety, concern for loved ones and their own health. Depression is always accompanied by decreased performance, rapid fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. The most common, mundane things seem complicated and difficult to accomplish. Irritability appears, often for the most insignificant reasons. Interest in the environment disappears: work, favorite activities, the feeling of pleasure disappears.Food seems tasteless, your favorite show is boring, partying with friends is a waste of time. The future is seen in dark colors, hopeless and bleak.

Another manifestation of depressive disorders is sleep disturbance. Night sleep becomes superficial, intermittent, with early (2-3 hours earlier than usual) awakenings. Decreased appetite, which leads to rapid weight loss.

The most dangerous symptom of depression is suicidal thoughts, which in the most severe cases of the disease can lead to specific actions.It is important for others to understand that the patient cannot control his condition and get rid of the disease by an effort of will. We can cope with a bad mood. Good music, delicious food, funny anecdote – and life is getting better. But depression is a disease that requires special, often medicinal, treatment. It is impossible to recover from it by simple persuasion or self-hypnosis.

So, the main symptoms of depression are:

• decreased or impaired appetite.

Types of depression:

• depressive reactions
• psychogenic depression
• reactive depression
• seasonal depressive disorder

Prolonged depression can exacerbate the course of somatic diseases, such as hypertension, angina pectoris, bronchial asthma, complicating their treatment and making the prognosis worse. If symptoms of depression persist for more than 2 weeks , consult a psychiatrist.

The specialists of the EMC Clinic of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy carry out diagnostics and treatment of all types of depression, including prolonged and severe depression, anxious depression, and chronic depression. Possible hospitalization in a comfortable hospital EMC hospital on the street. Shchepkin.

Diagnostics and treatment of depression

The main method of examination, allowing to establish a diagnosis, is the consultation of a psychiatrist.Undoubtedly, a therapist, neuropathologist, psychologist can assume the presence of depression and refer to a psychiatrist, but the final diagnosis and choice of treatment strategy (drugs, psychotherapy, etc.) should remain with the specialist in the treatment of mental disorders.

Complaints of a patient about a bad mood or anxiety alone are not enough to talk about a depressive disorder. For a reliable diagnosis, a psychiatrist must identify at least four symptoms of depression, assess the time of their onset, severity, severity, etc.Auxiliary survey methods can be specially designed questionnaires, for example, the Beck Depression Questionnaire, MMPI (Minnesota Multidimensional Personality Questionnaire), etc., which can also suggest the need to consult a specialist.

Diagnosis of depression includes tests to rule out other disorders with similar symptoms. For this purpose, magnetic resonance imaging of the brain (MRI diagnostics), laboratory studies of the level of thyroid hormones are performed.Psychiatrists diagnose depression during clinical interviews using developed specialized questionnaires, tests and scales.

The most effective method of treating depression in a private clinic EMC, combines drug treatment and psychotherapy. Nowadays, comprehensive rehabilitation programs for depressive disorders have been developed, which include massage, reflexology, special gymnastics, as well as work with the families of patients.

Treatment of depressive disorder is based on the severity of the condition and usually includes three stages:

• Stopping (“cutting off”) therapy – is aimed at the fastest elimination of the symptoms of the disease.
• Stabilizing therapy – allows you to relieve the residual manifestations of depression and is aimed at combating relapses.
• Prevention of recurrent episodes of depression in the future.

Often, the first stage of depression treatment takes place in a round-the-clock hospital of the European Medical Center’s multidisciplinary hospital in Moscow. The second and third are carried out within the framework of a day hospital or on an outpatient basis. The most justified and clinically effective in the treatment of depression is a program of psychotherapy (mainly cognitive-behavioral therapy) with a course of psychopharmacotherapy.

Benefits of treatment in EMC

• An integrated approach is used for the treatment of psychoemotional disorders: a combination of pharmacotherapy, cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy and non-drug treatment methods (TMS, biofeedback therapy).
• We not only treat depression, but also teach patients to suppress negative thoughts, emotions, return them to an active and happy life.
• The Clinic for Psychiatry and Psychotherapy has a comfortable inpatient facility, which makes it possible to treat even severe forms of depression.

How to get rid of itchy skin?

2020.04.25

Why am I concerned about itchy skin?

Do you feel itchy and an unrelenting urge to itch? Feeling itchy back and not reaching this place?

It is often difficult to determine or explain the reason for this. This can be an elemental cause, but it can also be a symptom of a more serious skin lesion, such as a rash or disease.

Start with the easiest solutions. Try a different fabric, take care of your skin, and avoid anything that you think might be itchy. If that doesn’t work, talk to your doctor who will examine you for advice and prescribe appropriate treatment.

Is your skin dry?

If your skin is dry, it often leads to unpleasant itching. Exacerbations are more common in winter when the indoor air dries up. As you age, your skin also dries out more often and faster.

To reduce itching caused by dry skin:

• After bathing, use a moisturizer while your skin is still damp, and change your clothes more often.
• Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
• Use a humidifier.
• Take a short shower and do not use too hot water.
• Use a mild moisturizing soap.
• Is there a rash in itchy areas?

If you have an itchy area and notice redness or a rash, the problem is most likely in your skin.This can happen due to:

Fungal and bacterial infections such as impetigo and folliculitis.

Insect Bite : When you get bitten by a mosquito or a spider, you usually know it. Flea and tick bites are more difficult to diagnose because they look like a rash. Mosquitoes can cause swelling and severe itching.

Eczema or atopic dermatitis : Dry, scaly dandruff or purulent skin eruptions. It’s not clear what is causing this, but itching is very common.Children are more likely to suffer from asthma and allergies in their families. Eczema can get worse due to certain food allergies. These places are very itchy.

Contact dermatitis : This itchy rash is caused by a reaction to something that touches your skin. You may have to do some detective work to find out the reasons for this. These can be metals in your jewelry or chemicals in cosmetics, toiletries, and cleaning products. Stop using or wearing whatever you think might be causing it and check for itching.

Could it be a surface of the skin or an internal problem of the body?

Human skin often reflects if something goes wrong inside the body, so itching can be a sign of deeper problems in the body.

Urticaria : This is a form of allergy. Protruding areas appear on the skin that are isolated or confluent, and are usually itchy. It is caused by stress, heat, exercise, or sun exposure.

Psoriasis : A chronic relapsing disease that affects the skin and (in severe cases) the joints.This happens when the superficial skin cells begin to multiply too quickly. The skin looks like it is covered with scales that sometimes hurt, and red patches remain on the back of the head. Men and women get sick in the same way.

Pregnancy : More than 1 in 10 pregnant women believe itching is a problem. Causes range from harmless rashes to more serious conditions (such as liver dysfunction).

Medicines : Some medicines may cause itchy skin even if there is no sign of rash or irritation.Talk to your doctor if the itching gets too unpleasant. These medicines are known to doctors. It is:

Medications for high blood pressure are called ACE inhibitors
Allopurinol for the treatment of gout
Amiodarone is used to treat heart rhythm problems
Urinary preparations
estrogen
Hydroxyethylcellulose (used during surgery)
Prescription pain relievers called opioids
Statins for Lowering High Cholesterol
Pain relievers: acetaminophen, ibuprofen, etc.
Certain nervous diseases.

Your nervous system sometimes sends false signals from the nerves that innervate the skin, so we start to feel itchy, although, since there is no apparent reason for this, there is no rash, but your skin may be irritated from scratches or abrasions. This can happen with the following diseases:

• shingles
• Multiple sclerosis
• stroke
• Brain tumor
• Nerve damage

Maybe this is just a psychological reason?

If the doctor does not find a physical cause, the cause may be psychological, as some mental conditions cause people to bite.They may feel like something is crawling over their skin. There is no rash, but the skin can be damaged by scratches. This happens when you have:

• depression
• anxiety
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder
• psychosis
• trichotillomania

Very rare:

Itching usually has a simple, common cause. But in some cases, if this persists, it could be a sign of a serious medical condition, such as:

• Kidney disease
• Liver disease
• Thyroid problems
• Certain cancers, especially Hodgkin’s disease
• diabetes
• Iron deficiency
• HIV

Itching may be felt after treatment for some of the following conditions:

• renal dialysis
• chemotherapy
• radiotherapy

IF SIMPLE MEASURES DO NOT WORK – CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

90,000 Treatment of itching and redness of the skin

Itching and redness of the skin are symptoms of an inflammatory skin disease.On the one hand, they can indicate a serious illness, and on the other, they can occur with banal dry skin, allergies (to food, cosmetics, household chemicals) ³ .

Why there is itching and redness

The main causes of redness and itching of the skin can be divided into two groups: local and systemic.

Local causes include direct exposure to the skin of bacteria, viruses, fungi, chemicals, allergens. As a result, there are inflammatory changes in the area of ​​the skin, which manifest themselves as itching and redness.

Among the system ones, the following can be distinguished:

• Hormonal disorders (hyperthyroidism, diabetes mellitus).
• Diffuse skin diseases (neurodermatitis, psoriasis).
• Side effects of drugs.
• Generalized or intestinal parasitic infection.
• Impaired renal excretory function (renal failure).
• Diseases of the liver with an increase in the concentration of bile acids in the blood.

On the other hand, even trivial stress or congenital dryness of the skin can provoke reactions such as peeling, rash, itching and redness of the skin.Identification of the specific cause of the onset of symptoms, correct diagnosis by a doctor, followed by prevention is the key to effective treatment and preservation of health in the future ¹ .

Diagnosis of itching and redness

If redness and itching appear on the skin for the first time, it is necessary to exclude fungal skin lesions as one of the most common causes of these symptoms. With fungal infections, itching is the predominant symptom and may worsen at night.The area of ​​redness has the form of pinkish-red annular (O-shaped) spots with raised flaky edges. Sometimes the spots of redness can be dotted with small papules (vesicles) without a central depression. Red spots usually have clear boundaries. Redness of the skin occurs more often after itching ³ .

In addition, one must bear in mind the allergic nature of the disease. In this case, it is usually possible to easily identify the provoking factor for itching and redness of the skin: contact with an animal, a hygiene product, certain foods (usually coffee, chocolate, exotic fruits) and other allergens.Symptoms in this case can vary in severity. To confirm the diagnosis, an allergy test is necessary.

The next most common diagnosis that should be excluded in case of severe redness and itching of the skin is idiopathic dermatological diseases such as psoriasis, neurodermatitis. In addition to itching and redness, these conditions are characterized by peeling, and the boundaries of redness are blurred. This group of diseases often manifests itself in open areas of the skin in the form of multiple spots.To make a diagnosis, it is imperative to consult a doctor.

If none of the conditions listed above have been determined to be the cause of the rash and itchy skin, additional medical tests may be necessary: ​​

• Clinical and biochemical blood test with determination of glucose, cholesterol, uric acid, creatinine and other parameters.
• Clinical examination of urine.
• Bacteriological examination of feces.
• Hormone testing.
• Cancer markers

In the absence of an unambiguous diagnosis after carrying out all the above studies, it is necessary to assess the likelihood of the influence of psychological causes on the occurrence of skin lesions ¹ .

Treatment of redness and itching of the skin

90,000 10 unexpected reasons why you itch all

Most often, itchy skin has a very obvious cause. You may have been bitten by mosquitoes (mosquitoes, lice, bedbugs or beach bugs).Or you ate strawberries, which you always have a rash on – and hello, familiar allergic scratching. Or maybe you have dermatitis, and then the itching is accompanied by redness, peeling, or thickening of the affected skin.

But sometimes it happens that day after day you itch, and why is not clear. In this case, itching, whichever part of the body it affects, can be the first symptom of very unpleasant diseases. And it would be worth not missing them.

When to see a doctor

Experts from the American research organization Mayo Clinic recommend ^{to visit a therapist or dermatologist if, at first glance, itching is unreasonable:}

• lasts longer than two weeks and does not go away despite the fact that you try to actively care cover the skin and avoid probable food allergens;
• is so intense that it makes you scratch even in public or interferes with sleep;
• manifests itself as sudden attacks;
• affects the whole body, and is not limited to specific areas;
• is accompanied by other physiological changes – weakness and rapid fatigue, weight loss, fever (even slight), increased urge to urinate, constipation or diarrhea.

Even one of the symptoms listed above is already a serious reason to consult a doctor. A doctor can help you figure out exactly what is happening to your skin. Perhaps the reason is not at all in her.

Why everything itches with you

Doctors do not hide: it is not always possible to establish what exactly caused the itching. However, such cases are rare. Much more often, the reasons for ^{are still found: however, sometimes not quite where the patient himself suspects. Here are common conditions that can make you itch for no apparent reason.}

1. Side effect of taking certain medications

This itching is often accompanied by skin reactions such as redness or rashes. But in some cases, the skin all over the body just itches. These side effects are:

• some drugs for the treatment of hypertension;
• Agents used for gout, eg allopurinol;
• drugs with estrogen – the same oral contraceptives;
• amiodarone – a drug that is prescribed for cardiac arrhythmias;
• Prescription opioid pain relievers;
• Simvastatin is a drug used to lower cholesterol levels.

2. Pregnancy

According to statistics ^{of the authoritative medical resource WebMD, itching in one form or another worries one or two women out of every 10 pregnant women.}

3. Neurological disorders

Itching without rashes, especially if accompanied by tingling and a feeling of running creeps, can be an early symptom of the following diseases:

• shingles;
• multiple sclerosis;
• nerve damage;
• stroke;
• brain and spinal cord tumors.

4. Mental disorders

This reason can be suspected by the specific nature of the itching: it seems to such people that something or someone is crawling on their skin. Therefore, they itch, often scratching the epidermis to blood. Compulsive (obsessive) scratching can accompany the following mental illness:

• depression;
• Anxiety Disorders
• obsessive-compulsive disorder;
• psychosis;
• Trichotillomania (an obsessive condition in which a person unconsciously pulls out hair on the head or body).

5. Diabetes mellitus

Skin itching is one of the earliest and most characteristic symptoms of this disease.

6. Diseases and disorders in the liver

Itching in this case is associated ^{with the fact that bile stagnation occurs in the diseased liver. And even its cells are completely destroyed (this happens with hepatitis, developing cirrhosis). All this leads to an increase in the content of bile acids and bilirubin pigment, which irritate the skin: it itches.}

7. Kidney disease

If the kidneys do not work properly, nitrogenous compounds are formed in the epidermis in particular. The body gets rid of them along with sweat. But, when left on the skin, this sweat causes irritation and itching.

8. Problems with the thyroid gland

Any malfunction of the thyroid gland affects the metabolism. This often results in dry skin, which provokes itching.

9. Iron deficiency

Due to a lack of iron, the body cannot produce the required amount of red blood cells – erythrocytes and the most important protein hemoglobin, which carries oxygen.This is how anemia develops. Pale and sometimes itchy skin is one of the symptoms of this disorder.

10. Certain types of cancer

Unreasonable itching is a rare symptom of cancer. But this is possible. For example, ^:

• polycythemia is a tumor process in the circulatory system;
• pancreatic cancer;
• Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

Given the severity of these diseases, it is quite obvious: if you itch and do not understand why, it is important not to delay visiting a therapist.

Your itch may be just an allergic reaction to your favorite synthetic shirt or new laundry detergent. It will be enough to identify the allergen and you will forget about scabies. But when it comes to more unpleasant conditions, an important rule applies here: the sooner you discover the disease and start treatment, the more successful it will be. Therefore, deal with the causes of itching as quickly as possible. It’s in your best interest.

Read also 😣😣😣

drug and physiotherapy – Dobrobut clinic

Possible causes of itching of the skin of the body: which doctor to contact

Skin itching is an unpleasant sensation accompanied by the need for mechanical irritation of the skin, that is, it causes a constant desire to scratch the disturbing place.The types of itching of the skin depend on the reasons that provoked it. Itching is a symptom of various diseases, disorders and conditions. It can result from infection, inflammation, allergies, insect bites, and occur during the normal wound healing process. Itching significantly affects the general condition and quality of life of patients. It causes insomnia and, in severe cases, leads to depression.

Causes of itching

Itching is often caused by a skin condition, but can sometimes be a sign of a serious medical condition.In some cases, it is impossible to identify a specific cause of itchy skin.

Skin diseases causing itching:

1. Eczema. Severe itchy skin rash in adults, accompanied by dryness, redness, flaking. Children’s eczema is distinguished separately. Red rashes on the skin of a child with a pronounced exudative component may indicate eczema.
2. Contact dermatitis. Skin reaction resulting from contact with an irritant or allergen.
3. Urticaria. Dermatitis of an allergic nature, with a red, itchy rash.
4. Lichen planus. Itchy rash of unknown etiology.
5. Psoriasis. First, pink spots appear on the skin (papules), then they merge, forming plaques.
6. Prurigo (prurigo). Small blisters on the skin that itch a lot.
7. Dandruff. A condition causing dry white or gray flakes of dead skin to appear on the scalp.Dandruff can cause an itchy scalp.

Itching can be caused by an allergen or irritant: cosmetics, metal in jewelry, latex. Allergy to certain foods, medicines is also accompanied by itching. Skin allergy ointment relieves itching and relieves the condition.

The skin of the hands is very dry, scaly and itchy

Other possible causes of itching of the skin of the body:

1. Scabies. The disease is caused by a female scabies mite.An infected person is worried about intense itching of the skin, which is worse after a hot shower, in the evening and at night.
2. Head and pubic lice.
3. Insect bites: bees, wasps, mosquitoes, fleas, bedbugs.

The skin of the hands is very dry, flakes and itches – the condition is typical for a fungal infection, and can also signal metabolic disorders or be the result of contact with aggressive media. A dermatologist should make an accurate diagnosis and prescribe treatment.

Why does the skin on the legs itch and redness appear? Symptoms can indicate both a skin or allergic disease, and an endocrine or autoimmune pathology.

Itching can be a symptom of infection:

1. Chickenpox or other viral infection.
2. A fungal infection (athlete’s foot) that causes itching between the toes.
3. Ringworm.
4. Vaginal candidiasis, which causes itching of the genitals and surrounding skin (inner thigh).

Diseases of a general nature, which may be accompanied by itching of the skin

Endogenous causes of itching:

1. Hemorrhoids – expansion of the veins of the rectum with the formation of external and internal nodes.
2. Thyroid pathology. Read more about thyrotoxicosis on our website https://www.dobrobut.com.
3. Iron deficiency anemia – a decrease in the content of hemoglobin in erythrocytes.
4. Polycythemia – an increase in the concentration of red blood cells in the blood.
5. Uremia – self-poisoning of the body in severe kidney pathologies.
6. Liver diseases, eg primary biliary cirrhosis, hepatitis.
7. Renal failure – impaired renal function.
8. Metabolic disorders (diabetes mellitus).
9. Certain types of cancer: liver, pancreas, leukemia, Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

Sometimes itching is associated with a psychological condition (depression, anxiety).In women, itching can be caused by hormonal changes during pregnancy or after menopause. Senile itching of the skin in older people occurs in about 50% of people over 70 years of age in the form of nocturnal attacks. The main causes of senile itching are endocrine disorders, atherosclerosis, dry skin. Senile pruritus is a diagnosis of exclusion, meaning that other causes of itching must be ruled out before it is diagnosed.

Treatment of pruritus and irritation

The most effective treatment for pruritus is the diagnosis and treatment of the underlying disease, disorder or condition causing itching.General therapy includes the use of sedatives and antihistamines, hyposensitizing agents (calcium preparations, sodium thiosulfate), mast cell membrane stabilizers (ketotifen), enterosorbents.

Treatment of skin itching and irritation is carried out using physiotherapeutic and balneological methods. External therapy is widely used, although the effect of most local drugs is very short-lived. Usually, powders, ointments, alcohol and water solutions, pastes, “talkers” are prescribed.The antipruritic effect is possessed by: glucocorticosteroids, solutions of anestezin, diphenhydramine, water with table or apple cider vinegar, infusion of chamomile flowers.

How to relieve facial skin irritation? It is necessary to moisturize the skin, use hypoallergenic pharmaceutical cosmetics, thermal water. In case of itching of any genesis, provocative factors should be eliminated: do not contact with irritating substances, do not allow dryness and degreasing of the skin.

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Dermatovenereology

To scratch or not to scratch, that is the question.Scientists answer

September 26, 2018

Photo author, Getty Images

There is not much scientific knowledge about itching and scabies, but this underestimated field of medicine can reveal surprising facts about the human brain.

We have collected 12 facts that will make you scratch your head.

1. You scratch about 97 times a day

Photo by Getty Images

According to research, each of us itches about 100 times a day.Probably, you have something itching now. Scratch it, nobody will notice.

2. The urge to scratch is caused by toxins left on the skin by animals or plants

Photo by Getty Images

Toxins trigger the release of histamine, which is part of the body’s immune response. As a result, nerve fibers begin to send “itchy” signals to the brain. The simplest example is meeting a jellyfish.

3. Scratching has its own nervous system

Photo author, Getty Images

itching is answered by certain nerve fibers.

4. Signals that itches somewhere are transmitted very slowly

Photo author, Getty Images

Nerve fibers have different speeds:

• Touch signal transmission speed – 321 km / h
• ” quick pain “(which you experience if, for example, you accidentally touch a hot plate) is transmitted at a speed of 128 km / h
• the desire to scratch” crawls “at a speed of 3.2 km / h – slower than you are walking

five.Scratching is contagious

Photo by Getty Images

Scientists have proven this by showing groups of mice videos of other mice scratching themselves. The watching group also began to scratch themselves.

6. The suprachiasmatic nucleus is responsible for infectious scratching

Photo by, Getty Images

Neuroscientists do not yet know how a tiny part of our brain, called the “suprachiasmatic nucleus”, is involved in observing scratching and arousing the desire to scratch.

7. The urge to scratch is the best way to deal with itching caused by insects or plants

Photo Credit, Getty Images

It helps to get rid of any pesky insects or poisonous plants, and also dilates blood vessels, allowing leukocytes and plasma to wash away toxins. It is because of this flush that the skin becomes red and blotchy.

8. Scratching is pleasant because it releases serotonin into the brain.

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that scientists attribute to feelings of well-being and happiness.The more serotonin circulates throughout the body, the happier you feel. Unsurprisingly, it can sometimes be difficult to stop itching.

9. The nicest place to scratch is the ankle …

Photo by Getty Images

At least according to a study published in the British Journal of Dermatology in 2012.

Results showed that itching is felt most intensely on the ankle, but it is also the place where the pleasure of scratching is felt the most and lasts the longest.

Have you just scratched your ankle to test the findings of British scientists? Honestly.

10. The more you scratch, the more it itches

When you scratch your skin, histamine is released into the bloodstream and more itchy signals are sent to the brain.

11. The cycle of scratching and combing is dangerous for people with skin conditions

Photo Credit, Getty Images

These patients suffering from eczema, psoriasis and other skin conditions are often prescribed antihistamines to try to reduce the intensity of itching sensations.

12. Chronic itching is as debilitating as chronic pain

Photo Credit, Getty Images

Scientists have found that people who suffer from persistent itching experience the same levels of discomfort and depression as those with chronic diseases. …

According to a study published in the Archives of Dermatology, people who suffer from itching for weeks, months, or even years feel as bad as those who suffer from chronic pain.

In fact, the study authors say chronic itching is the skin’s equivalent of pain.

Moreover, persistent itching should not be ignored, chronic itching can be associated with many diseases such as liver disease and lymphoma.