Face is itchy and breaking out. Itchy Face Causes: Understanding and Treating Facial Pruritus

07.09.202317.06.2023 by alexxlab

What causes an itchy face. How to identify and treat common triggers of facial itching. When to seek medical attention for persistent facial pruritus. What home remedies can provide relief for an itchy face.

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Common Causes of Facial Itching

An itchy face can be an uncomfortable and frustrating experience. While occasional facial itching is not unusual, persistent or severe itching may indicate an underlying condition. Understanding the potential causes can help you find effective relief and determine when to seek medical attention.

Some of the most common causes of facial itching include:

Dry skin
Seasonal allergies
Contact with irritants
Medications (e.g. antibiotics, antifungals, narcotic pain medications)
Skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis
Environmental factors like hard water

In some cases, facial itching may be a symptom of an internal condition such as liver disease, thyroid disorders, or nutritional deficiencies. Identifying any accompanying symptoms can help pinpoint the underlying cause.

Itchy Face with Rash: Allergic Reactions and Skin Conditions

When facial itching is accompanied by a rash or hives, it often indicates an allergic reaction or skin condition. During an allergic reaction, your immune system responds to a trigger, causing inflammation and itching.

Common skin conditions that can cause an itchy face with a rash include:

Contact dermatitis
Psoriasis
Rosacea
Perioral dermatitis
Heat rash

Is it possible to have an allergic reaction without visible symptoms? Yes, in some cases, you may experience an itchy face without a noticeable rash. This can occur with mild allergic reactions or sensitivities to environmental factors.

Facial Itching Without a Rash: Potential Underlying Causes

An itchy face without a visible rash can be perplexing. However, several factors can contribute to this condition:

Dry Skin

The most common cause of facial itching without a rash is dry skin. Factors like low humidity, hot showers, and harsh soaps can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and itching.

Nutrient Deficiencies

Iron deficiency anemia can sometimes manifest as facial itching without other obvious symptoms. As the condition progresses, additional signs may become apparent.

Water Quality

Hard water, which contains high levels of minerals, can dry out the skin and cause itching. Look for white mineral deposits on faucets as a sign of hard water in your home.

Serious Health Conditions

In rare cases, an itchy face without a rash may indicate a more serious health issue. If you experience additional symptoms like trouble breathing, yellowing of the eyes, enlarged glands, or dehydration, consult a healthcare professional immediately.

Itchy Face with Pimples: Acne and Related Conditions

When facial itching is accompanied by pimples or cysts, acne may be the culprit. Acne can cause itching due to inflammation and irritation of the skin.

Why do some people experience itchy acne? Several factors can contribute to itchy acne breakouts:

Excessive sweating
Use of comedogenic cosmetics
Clogged pores
Hormonal fluctuations

It’s important to resist the urge to scratch itchy acne, as this can spread bacteria and lead to more breakouts. If you’re experiencing persistent or severe acne with itching, consult a dermatologist for proper treatment.

Pregnancy-Related Facial Itching: What Expectant Mothers Should Know

While facial itching during pregnancy is relatively rare, it can occur and may indicate an underlying condition. Obstetric cholestasis, a liver condition that typically develops around 30 weeks of gestation, can cause intense itching on the face, hands, and feet.

How can pregnant women distinguish between normal pregnancy-related itching and obstetric cholestasis? Look for these additional symptoms:

Dark urine
Pale bowel movements
Intense itching without a visible rash

If you experience these symptoms during pregnancy, consult your healthcare provider promptly for proper diagnosis and management.

Neuropathic Itch: When Nerves Play Tricks

Neuropathic itch is a unique type of facial itching caused by the nervous system. In this condition, facial nerves send false signals of irritation to the brain, resulting in a perceived itch without any actual skin irritation.

Neurological conditions that can contribute to neuropathic facial itching include:

Shingles
Multiple sclerosis
Nerve damage

Treating neuropathic itch often requires addressing the underlying neurological condition. If you suspect you’re experiencing neuropathic facial itching, consult a neurologist for proper evaluation and treatment.

Effective Treatments for an Itchy Face

The appropriate treatment for facial itching depends on the underlying cause. However, there are several general strategies that can provide relief:

Avoid Scratching

Resisting the urge to scratch is crucial, as scratching can further irritate the skin and exacerbate the condition. Instead, try gently patting or applying cool compresses to soothe the itch.

Moisturize Regularly

Using a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer can help combat dry skin and reduce itching. Look for products containing ingredients like ceramides or hyaluronic acid to lock in moisture.

Identify and Avoid Triggers

If allergies or irritants are causing your facial itching, identifying and avoiding these triggers can provide significant relief. Consider keeping a diary to track potential triggers.

Over-the-Counter Treatments

Antihistamines and hydrocortisone creams can help alleviate itching caused by allergic reactions or mild skin irritations. Always follow the instructions on the package and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist.

Prescription Medications

For more severe or persistent cases of facial itching, your doctor may prescribe stronger medications such as topical corticosteroids or immunomodulators.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Facial Itching

While many cases of facial itching can be managed at home, certain situations warrant professional medical attention:

Persistent itching that doesn’t respond to over-the-counter treatments
Itching accompanied by severe pain, swelling, or signs of infection
Facial itching that interferes with daily activities or sleep
Sudden onset of intense itching during pregnancy
Itching accompanied by systemic symptoms like fever, fatigue, or unexplained weight loss

A healthcare professional can perform a thorough evaluation to determine the underlying cause of your facial itching and recommend appropriate treatment options.

Natural Remedies for Soothing an Itchy Face

In addition to medical treatments, several natural remedies may help alleviate facial itching:

Colloidal Oatmeal

Colloidal oatmeal has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe itchy skin. You can make a paste by mixing colloidal oatmeal with water and applying it to the affected areas.

Aloe Vera

The gel from aloe vera plants has cooling and anti-inflammatory effects that can help reduce itching and irritation. Apply pure aloe vera gel to the itchy areas for relief.

Cold Compress

Applying a cold compress to the itchy areas can help numb the skin and reduce inflammation, providing temporary relief from itching.

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that may help soothe itchy skin. Always dilute tea tree oil with a carrier oil before applying it to the skin.

Chamomile Tea

Cooled chamomile tea can be applied to the skin using a clean cloth. Its anti-inflammatory properties may help reduce itching and irritation.

While these natural remedies can be effective for mild cases of facial itching, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen.

Preventing Facial Itching: Tips for Maintaining Healthy Skin

Taking proactive steps to maintain healthy facial skin can help prevent itching and irritation. Consider incorporating these habits into your skincare routine:

Use gentle, fragrance-free cleansers and moisturizers
Avoid hot showers and opt for lukewarm water when washing your face
Pat your skin dry instead of rubbing it with a towel
Protect your face from sun damage by using a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day
Manage stress through relaxation techniques, as stress can exacerbate skin conditions
Use a humidifier in dry environments to add moisture to the air
Avoid touching your face frequently to reduce the transfer of irritants and bacteria

By implementing these preventive measures, you can help maintain healthy, comfortable facial skin and reduce the likelihood of experiencing persistent itching.

Understanding the Impact of Diet on Facial Itching

Your diet can play a significant role in skin health and may influence facial itching. Certain foods and nutrients can either exacerbate or alleviate skin conditions that cause itching.

Foods to Avoid

Some individuals may experience increased facial itching after consuming certain foods. Common triggers include:

Dairy products
Gluten-containing grains
Processed foods high in sugar and artificial additives
Spicy foods
Alcohol

If you suspect that certain foods are triggering your facial itching, consider keeping a food diary to identify potential correlations.

Skin-Friendly Nutrients

Incorporating foods rich in certain nutrients can support skin health and potentially reduce itching:

Omega-3 fatty acids (found in fatty fish, flaxseeds, and chia seeds)
Vitamin E (found in nuts, seeds, and avocados)
Vitamin C (found in citrus fruits, berries, and leafy greens)
Zinc (found in lean meats, legumes, and pumpkin seeds)
Probiotics (found in yogurt, kefir, and fermented foods)

A balanced diet rich in these nutrients can help maintain healthy skin and potentially reduce the likelihood of facial itching.

The Role of Stress in Facial Itching

Stress can have a significant impact on skin health and may contribute to facial itching. When you’re stressed, your body releases hormones like cortisol, which can trigger inflammation and exacerbate existing skin conditions.

How does stress contribute to facial itching? Stress can:

Weaken the skin barrier, making it more susceptible to irritants
Increase oil production, potentially leading to acne breakouts
Trigger flare-ups of conditions like eczema and psoriasis
Cause muscle tension, which may lead to facial tics or unconscious scratching

To manage stress-related facial itching, consider incorporating stress-reduction techniques into your daily routine:

Practice mindfulness meditation
Engage in regular physical exercise
Prioritize adequate sleep
Try deep breathing exercises
Pursue hobbies and activities you enjoy

By managing stress levels, you may be able to reduce the frequency and intensity of facial itching episodes.

Environmental Factors and Facial Itching

Your surroundings can have a significant impact on skin health and contribute to facial itching. Understanding and managing these environmental factors can help reduce discomfort and maintain healthy skin.

Climate and Weather

Different weather conditions can affect your skin in various ways:

Cold, dry weather can lead to skin dehydration and itching
Hot, humid weather can cause excessive sweating and potential skin irritation
Windy conditions can strip moisture from the skin
Sudden temperature changes can shock the skin and cause itching

To protect your skin from these environmental factors, consider using a humidifier in dry conditions, applying moisturizer more frequently, and protecting your face from extreme temperatures.

Indoor Air Quality

The air inside your home or workplace can also affect your skin health. Poor indoor air quality can contribute to facial itching through:

Dust and allergens
Dry air from heating and cooling systems
Chemical irritants from cleaning products or air fresheners

Improving indoor air quality by using air purifiers, maintaining proper humidity levels, and choosing non-toxic cleaning products can help reduce skin irritation and itching.

Sun Exposure

While some sun exposure is beneficial for vitamin D production, excessive sun exposure can damage the skin and lead to itching. Sunburn, sun allergies, and certain photosensitivity reactions can all cause facial itching.

To protect your skin from sun-related itching:

Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30
Wear protective clothing, including wide-brimmed hats
Avoid peak sun hours (usually between 10 am and 4 pm)
Seek shade when outdoors for extended periods

By being mindful of these environmental factors and taking appropriate precautions, you can help reduce the likelihood of experiencing facial itching due to external influences.

The Connection Between Hormones and Facial Itching

Hormonal changes can significantly impact skin health and contribute to facial itching. Understanding this connection can help you better manage and anticipate potential skin issues.

Menstrual Cycle

Many women experience changes in their skin throughout their menstrual cycle. Hormonal fluctuations can lead to:

Increased oil production, potentially causing acne and itching
Skin sensitivity and irritation
Exacerbation of existing skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis

Tracking your menstrual cycle and adjusting your skincare routine accordingly can help manage these hormonal effects on your skin.

What Causes an Itchy Face?

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Itchy face with a rash

If you have an itchy face along with a rash or hives, or contact dermatitis, you may be having an allergic reaction. In an allergic reaction, your immune system responds to something you’ve come into contact with.

Itching and rash can also be caused by your skin coming into contact with an irritant (without causing your immune system to react), like cleaning chemicals, certain soaps, or some foods.

Psoriasis, rosacea, and perioral dermatitis are all skin conditions that can cause itching along with raised red bumps on your face.

You could also be experiencing a heat rash.

Itchy face without a rash

An itchy face without a rash can seem like a bit of a mystery. Looking to other symptoms can help you figure out where the itch is coming from:

If you have an itchy face, no rash, but are experiencing trouble breathing, have a yellowish tinge to your eyes, enlarged glands, and dehydration, you should see your doctor right away. These symptoms could indicate liver problems, jaundice, or Hodgkin’s disease.
If you have an itchy face, no rash, and no other major symptoms:
- You may be iron deficient. (If iron deficiency anemia intensifies, symptoms can become more prominent.)
- You may be having a mild allergic reaction to something new in your environment.
- You may have the most common cause of an itchy face: dry skin.
- You may be sensitive to the water in your bath or shower. For instance, hard water (water that has a high mineral count) can dry out your skin. You might be able to tell if you have hard water: look for signs of white build-up (mineral deposits) on sink and shower faucets.

Itchy face with pimples

Acne bumps sometimes cause itching — and itching your acne may spread bacteria and as a result more acne over your face. Itchy pimples can be influenced by sweating, cosmetics, clogged pores, or hormones.

If your face itches and you also have pimples or cysts, you may have acne vulgaris (regular acne) or cystic acne, which is worth talking to a doctor about for the most effective treatments.

Itchy face while pregnant

Developing an itchy face because of your pregnancy is somewhat rare, but it does happen.

While itching on your body and your baby bump is common during pregnancy, excessive itching on your face and on your hands and feet could be a symptom of a condition called obstetric cholestasis.

This condition comes without a rash. It also brings symptoms of dark urine and pale bowel movements. Obstetric cholestasis typically crops up around 30 weeks of pregnancy.

It needs to be diagnosed and addressed, so speak to your doctor right away if you have anything beyond mild itching during pregnancy.

Neuropathic itch

A neuropathic face itch is caused by the sensors in your face detecting an irritant where one is not present. This is known as a type of sensory hallucination.

Sometimes neurological health conditions, like shingles and multiple sclerosis, can contribute to this feeling of itching.

The treatment for your itchy face will vary depending on what’s causing it. Your doctor will most likely first advise you to stop scratching the skin, as that can further irritate the epidermis and make the condition worsen.

In some cases, itching your face too much can lead to a broken skin barrier that could develop into an infection.

Here are some home remedies for an itchy face:

When you feel the itching begin, apply a cool washcloth or a cold compress to your face to calm the itch instead of scratching it.
You can also try wiping your face with a wet cloth or washing your face. If the cause is a contact irritant, this may clean it off.
Remove yourself from any stressful situation you are in until the itching subsides. Stress can make itching worse.
Take a lukewarm bath and splash your face with cool, clean water without using any soap.
Purchase an over-the-counter antihistamine cream that’s safe to use on your face. Make sure to avoid the area around your eyes when applying an antihistamine. If symptoms worsen after using an antihistamine, discontinue use and contact your doctor right away.
Consider buying an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream or a soothing topical lotion like calamine.

Your doctor may also have prescriptions and lifestyle changes to recommend for your itchy face. Commonly prescribed treatments, depending on the cause of an itchy face, include:

prescription strength hydrocortisone or antihistamine creams
calcineurin inhibitors (immunosuppresants that don’t contain steroids)
antidepressants/selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
phototherapy (light therapy)

Start with the basics for skin care:

Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Wash your face with a mild face wash.
Use a non-pore-clogging facial moisturizer. There are many on the market made for sensitive skin.

Shop for facial moisturizers.

You can invest in a gentle, hypoallergenic skincare routine that you can follow every day. Use face creams that aren’t chemically dyed or scented. The drier your skin, the more often you should moisturize it.

Certainly, avoid substances, ingredients, or materials that irritate your skin. This can include perfumed soap or detergent, some metals in jewelry (such as nickel), and cleaning products.

Check the ingredients list of your cosmetics to make sure you’re not exposing your face to harsh chemicals or things you are sensitive to.

And if your cosmetics are older than 6 to 12 months, consider replacing them.

During the colder months, forced air heating can make your skin drier. Consider using a humidifier to keep your skin from getting drier.

Also consider changing the temperature of your shower. While hot showers can feel invigorating, lukewarm or cool water is ideal for protecting the moisture levels in your skin.

See your doctor if the itching on your face:

persists for more than two weeks even with the use of home remedies and over-the-counter creams
is accompanied by other symptoms such as extreme fatigue, weight loss, or persistent fever
distracts or inhibits your daily life because it is so uncomfortable and aggravating
results in broken skin that looks like it could become (or has become) infected

When you talk to a doctor or dermatologist about your itchy face, you might be asked for a list of medications or supplements that you take. If you don’t already have a dermatologist, you can browse doctors in your area through the Healthline FindCare tool. Keeping a daily journal for a few days before your appointment is a good idea. You can note:

medications
foods
your activities
anxiety/stress levels
any other factors that you feel could be significant

Your doctor may need to do tests to figure out what’s causing your face to itch:

A chest X-ray may be performed to rule out cardiovascular conditions.
A skin biopsy may be prescribed so that your doctor can test the health of your different skin layers and see how your skin looks on a cellular level.
Your doctor may also order blood tests to see if there is a nutritional deficiency or unknown allergy at play.

As hard as it can be, the best treatment for an itchy face is to leave it alone and resist the urge to scratch it.

Most cases of itchy skin can be treated with a cold compress or a cool shower and won’t come back if you avoid whatever triggered your reaction.

A daily cleaning and moisturizing routine can also keep itchy face symptoms at bay.

If the itching is accompanied by other symptoms and doesn’t go away, call a doctor or dermatologist to make sure there’s no other health condition causing your face to itch.

Managing Itchy Acne: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

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Medically reviewed by Cynthia Cobb, DNP, APRN, WHNP-BC, FAANP — By Alex Snyder — Updated on September 26, 2018

Overview

Acne is a skin condition that affects nearly everybody at one point or another. Most teens experience acne during puberty, and many people continue to struggle with acne throughout adulthood. It’s a common condition caused by inflammation of the skin glands and hair follicles. The most typical contributors to acne are:

overproduction of sebum, an oily product of the sebaceous glands that is responsible for lubricating the skin and hair
skin pores clogged by dirt, dead skin cells, and other debris
bacterial infection of the sebaceous glands
stress

Acne can be itchy, painful, and irritating. We know what causes acne, but what makes it itch?

Acne can begin to itch for a few different reasons. The most common reason is due to the friction and dryness of skin cells that are the result of clogged and cramped pores. When skin becomes dry, its nature is to itch.

Other itchy triggers include:

allergies
skin reactions to chemicals like benzoyl peroxide
heat, which can intensify itching
sunlight/UV light
sweat

On a positive note, itchiness can be a sign indicating that the acne is getting better. When acne is healing, the red, pustular skin needs to be replaced with new, healthy skin. During this process, your body exfoliates, or sheds old layers of skin to uncover new layers of skin. The dry, flaky, and dead skin cells are part of the healing process, but they can also cause uncomfortable itching sensations.

Everyone understands the maddening sensation of being itchy, and the uncontrollable desire to scratch and rub the itch away. However, when it comes to itchy acne, it’s very important to avoid doing so. In addition to harming your skin, scratching the acne hotspots can cause:

permanent scarring
lesions and infection
aggravated acne symptoms

Perhaps the most important reason you shouldn’t scratch the affected skin is because you run the risk of popping or piercing the pimple. This can cause the bacteria inside the pimple to spread to other parts of your body and create more outbreaks.

However, you don’t need to suffer the itchiness without relief. There are ways to treat these uncomfortable itchy pimples and their annoying itching sensations.

There are many different approaches to treating itchy acne. Common treatments include:

washing pimples after they burst (using a mild soap fortified with a moisturizer)
keeping your hands clean and not touching the affected areas
avoiding overexposure to the sun
applying light moisturizers with aloe vera to control dryness, redness, and inflammation
applying calamine lotion
using antihistamines to control sebum secretion and prevent itching
taking antibiotics prescribed by a doctor

While there are many different treatments for itchy acne, the main points to keep in mind are keeping your skin moisturized, clean, and safe from abrasion.

Itchy acne is an uncomfortable and extremely common affliction. Clogged pores primarily cause acne. Itchiness is caused by dryness and irritation. While scratching may bring relief in the short term, it can make acne symptoms worse, so it’s important to resist the urge. Various at-home and over-the-counter treatments are available to manage itchy symptoms, but it’s important to speak to your doctor or dermatologist about the best approach for you. You can book an appointment with a dermatologist in your area using our Healthline FindCare tool.

With patience, acne and its associated itchiness can be overcome to reveal clearer, brighter, and healthier skin just below the surface.

Last medically reviewed on June 25, 2018

How we reviewed this article:

Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

Acne. (n.d.).
pamf.org/teen/health/skin/acne-whatis.html
Antihistamine: A useful medication with minimal adverse drug reactions to improve acne symptoms and reduce sebum production. (2015).
commons.pacificu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?referer=https://www.google.com/&httpsredir=1&article=1555&context=pa
Mayo Clinic Staff. (2017). Acne.
mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acne/symptoms-causes/syc-20368047
Mayo Clinic Staff. (2018). Folliculitis.
mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/folliculitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20361634

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Medically reviewed by Cynthia Cobb, DNP, APRN, WHNP-BC, FAANP — By Alex Snyder — Updated on September 26, 2018

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Irritated facial skin always causes significant discomfort. Sometimes it is enough to adjust cosmetic care to get rid of unpleasant itching. However, in some cases, the cause of such dermatological problems can be much more serious. Why a face can itch and when a doctor’s help is needed, MedAboutMe figured it out.

Skin features: dry and sensitive, aging

Individual features of the skin are most pronounced on the face. People with dry and sensitive skin may experience itching and irritation if:

They stay in a room with dry air for a long time (for example, when the air conditioner is running).
Washing with too hot water.
Do not follow the drinking regimen, especially on hot days.
Does not protect the skin on windy and cold days.
Incorrect care of the skin of the face – do not use moisturizers, use alcohol-based cosmetics, etc.
There has been contact with dusty or gassy air.

Itching of the face is a common complaint in the elderly. Most often, this is due precisely to the characteristics of the skin itself, because with age it loses moisture, becomes less elastic, and is more susceptible to various damages.

allergic reactions

An allergic reaction is another common cause of facial itching. First of all, it can be provoked by cosmetic products, such as cream, powder, washing lotion or just soap. However, redness and itching of the skin can also occur as a result of contact with nickel. It is found in jewelry, eyeglass frames, and even in the body of a mobile phone that a person holds near their ear.

Contact dermatitis may be associated with plants. So, oak, poison ivy, wild rose, sumac are considered quite strong allergens. Itching on the skin can appear after a person has touched the plant with his hands, and then touched his face. Scientists from Yale University studied the causes of such a reaction and came to the conclusion that the TRPA1 protein is responsible for plant allergy. The experiments were carried out on mice, and those individuals who did not have this protein did not suffer from allergies. The discovery provides an opportunity to develop new drugs for contact dermatitis, since standard antihistamines are often not effective enough for such patients.

Dermatitis also occurs as a reaction to various foods eaten. So, strawberries, chocolate, nuts, milk, eggs, fish and seafood often lead to allergies. In this case, a person develops an itchy small rash, inflammation on the face, and other symptoms are also observed – indigestion, runny nose, breathing problems. A similar reaction may occur to certain medications – aspirin, opioid analgesics, certain blood pressure medications.

Infections and parasites

Some infectious diseases are accompanied by severe rash and itching. As a rule, they spread to most of the body, but the first pimples and redness may appear on the face. The symptom is typical for the following diseases:

Chicken pox and other herpetic infections.
Measles.
Rubella.
Infectious erythema.
Streptoderma.

Such diseases begin acutely and in the overwhelming majority of cases are accompanied by other symptoms – high fever, general weakness, mucosal lesions. If you suspect an infection, you should see a doctor as soon as possible.

Severe itching of the skin of the face may be associated with parasites. In this case, unlike infectious diseases, no other symptoms will appear. A person complains only of constant inflammation, various skin lesions and very intense itching, which intensifies at night. Parasitic lesions include the following:

Skin demodicosis.
Scabies.
Schistosomatid dermatitis (bather’s itch).

Psoriasis and eczema

Chronic skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema also cause skin damage and itching. With psoriasis, the affected areas are very flaky, redden and begin to itch. If the disease progresses, the spots merge over time, forming extensive hardened plaques. When combing, wounds are formed, which are then difficult and take a long time to heal. Psoriasis is a chronic disease with alternating remissions and exacerbations. Relapses are caused by stress, emotional experiences, hormonal changes, and alcohol abuse.

Severe itching is also accompanied by atopic eczema, which first appears in childhood and is provoked by allergies. Over time, it can completely disappear, but doctors still classify the disease as chronic. This means that in adulthood a relapse can occur – an allergy will lead to painful and extensive skin damage.

Other types of eczema are not always accompanied by itching. However, if the disease affects large areas of the skin, such a symptom still manifests itself. In this case, severe forms of the disease can pose a threat to the body as a whole. For example, researchers from Cardiff University in Wales studied data from more than 385,000 adults with eczema and concluded that such skin lesions are associated with the risk of cardiovascular disease. In patients with severe eczema, the risk of stroke increased by 20%, the risk of unstable angina, heart attack, atrial fibrillation by 40-50%, and the risk of heart failure by 70%.

Itching as a symptom of other diseases

Prolonged itching of the skin is not always a sign of dermatological problems. So, it is observed in people with the following diagnoses:

Kidney disease, chronic renal failure.
Cirrhosis of the liver, chronic hepatitis B and C.
Diseases of the biliary tract, primarily cholestasis, cholelithiasis.
Diabetes mellitus type 1 and 2.
HIV.
Multiple sclerosis.

In the case of these diagnoses, itching of the skin may not be accompanied by redness or peeling, but other symptoms are observed:

Poor wound healing.
Indigestion.
Nausea.
Unreasonable change in weight (both fullness and weight loss).
General malaise, weakness.

If these symptoms are present, it is essential to be examined and treated as soon as possible. In diseases of the liver and kidneys, as well as diabetes, it is important to monitor nutrition – sometimes it is the correction of the diet that can significantly reduce itching. Most studies suggest that a low-protein diet is beneficial – meat dishes, eggs are excluded from the diet, sour-milk is minimized. At the same time, scientists at McMaster University, who analyzed data from 28 papers over 1975-2016, came to the conclusion that this approach may be erroneous. Protein products, in their opinion, do not reduce kidney function, but, on the contrary, can help with diseases of the internal organs. Therefore, the diet should be selected together with the doctor and taking into account the patient’s condition.

Another reason for scratching the skin is various neuroses, depressions, and so on. At the same time, nervous itching can be quite pronounced and debilitating. Sometimes patients cause significant damage to themselves, non-healing deep wounds appear on the skin, severe redness. Therefore, with such a symptom, the patient can be referred for a consultation with a psychotherapist.

Skin cancer

Skin cancer is one of the most dangerous causes of itching. Basalioma is the most common, accounting for about 60-80%, and the most dangerous type is melanoma. You can distinguish a malignant neoplasm from a normal mole by the following features:

Asymmetry.
Rough edges.
Inflammation and itching.
Sores inside a mole.
Non-uniform color.
Increase in size.

Therefore, if there are moles on the skin of the face that itch, and the combed areas bleed and do not heal, it is necessary to undergo an examination. The sooner skin cancer treatment is started, the better the prognosis for recovery.

Shutterstock photographs used

Sources used

Changes in Kidney Function Do Not Differ between Healthy Adults Consuming Higher- Compared with Lower- or Normal-Protein Diets: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis / Devries M., Sithamparapillai A. , Brimble K., et al // The Journal of Nutrition. = 2018. – No. 148. – 11
Itch and neuropathic itch / Hachisuka J. , Chiang M., Ross S. // PAIN. = 2018. – No. 159(3)
Structural and biophysical characteristics of human skin in maintaining proper epidermal barrier function / Boer M., Duchnik E., Maleszka R., Marchlewicz M. // Postepy Dermatologii I Alergologii. = 2016. – No. 33(1)
p53-Regulated Long Noncoding RNA PRECSIT Promotes Progression of Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma via STAT3 Signaling / Piipponen M., Nissinen L., Riihilä P. et al // The American Journal of Pathology. = 2020. – No. 190(2)
Hepatitis C virus-associated pruritus: Etiopathogenesis and therapeutic strategies / Alhmada Y., Selimovic D., Murad F. et al // World Journal of Gastroenterology. = 2017. – No. 23(5)

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Doctors answer the most painful questions about health

Eucerin: Atopic skin | Atopic dermatitis on the face

Atopic dermatitis is a very common chronic skin disease that affects adults, children and infants. The skin on the face and body becomes very dry and irritated. Atopic dermatitis usually has two phases: active (also known as flare-ups or “flares”) and inactive. It is important for patients to protect the skin during inactive phases in order to maximize their duration.

Signs and symptoms

Atopic dermatitis (or atopic eczema) is a non-contagious chronic disease in which the skin on the face and/or body is constantly dry, itchy and irritated. In other words, it is an inflammatory disease that is becoming more and more common, especially in the West. It occurs in 10% of the world’s population (10-20% of children and 2-5% of adults), and over the past 30 years, the number of cases has increased by 200-300%.

Infants and young children are most commonly affected. In 90% of patients, symptoms occur before the age of five, and in 80% before the age of two.

In young children, the face is most commonly affected, although the rash may spread to the body with age. In addition, atopic dermatitis on the face can occur in people of all ages and usually appears as dry, scaly patches on the scalp, forehead, around the eyes, and behind the ears. The rash can also be on the cheeks, particularly in children.

The set of symptoms may differ depending on the person, on the season, even every day. Patients describe two phases in atopic skin conditions – inactive (“break”) and acute (“flash”).

During exacerbations, patients feel: itching (from mild to intense) and redness of the skin, peeling, uneven swelling, the skin may hurt and even bleed slightly.

During the resting phase, there are symptoms of dry to very dry skin, flaking and irritation (a condition – not a disease – known as xerosis), and the affected area may have small, healed fissures.

Like the symptoms caused by skin irritation itself, atopic dermatitis can lead to further physical and psychological problems such as lack of sleep, bias, stress, and a general lack of self-confidence – especially in the case of atopic dermatitis on the face. As a result, sufferers often restrict their daily lives by changing their clothes, their diet, cosmetics, and the activities in which they participate. If the sufferer feels that his or her attractiveness is diminishing, this may affect their personal life as well.

Symptoms of an exacerbation can be severe itching, red or dark red skin, peeling, pain, and even slight bleeding of the skin.

Your skin is dry and reddened and, unlike dry and very dry skin, it cannot be healed, it can only be treated.
Your skin is prone to flaking, thickening and cracking. The skin itches intensely and tends to become red and inflamed. This is due not only to a lack of moisture, but also to a violation of the metabolism of fatty acids, which leads to the destruction of the barrier function of the skin.
Your dry skin has flare-ups.

If you are not sure about your symptoms, please consult your doctor or dermatologist.

Causes and factors contributing to the appearance of atopic dermatitis

There is no single cause of atopic dermatitis. There is also, unfortunately, no cure for it. However, trigger avoidance and daily active intensive care can prolong the healthy phases of atopic skin, while skin care during a flare-up provides rapid skin relief and recovery.

There are several genetic and environmental reasons why some people develop atopic dermatitis and others do not. They include:

If a parent has atopic dermatitis, asthma, or hay fever, then the child is at increased risk of getting sick.

– Communication with heredity . Atopic dermatitis is the most common form of eczema and is closely associated with asthma and hay fever. If both parents have atopic dermatitis, then the child will inherit this disease in 60-80%.

– Climate / pollution . Living in a developed country, a city (especially one with high levels of pollution), or a cold climate is more likely to increase the risk of the disease. For example, Jamaican children living in London have twice the risk of developing atopic dermatitis than those living in Jamaica.

– Pos. Women are slightly more susceptible to atopic dermatitis(s) than men.

– The age of the mother when she gave birth. The older the mother, the greater the risk that the child will develop atopic dermatitis.

There are four pathogenetic factors of atopic dermatitis :

1. Congenital deficiency of filaggrin; lack of natural moisturizing factors (NMFs), such as amino acids.
2. Violation of epidermal lipid metabolism (ceramides, cholesterol and free fatty acids) and violation of lipid barrier formation.

This results in dry skin with impaired barrier function. In this case, the skin becomes open to infections:

3. Growth of bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus) and secretion of super antigens.
4. Environmental factors such as irritants, allergens, pollution.

Dry and irritated skin leads to inflammation and itching. Constant itching can lead to constant scratching. It damages the skin barrier, promotes the development of a moist environment for the reproduction of bacteria. And this, in turn, causes irritation and further itching and inflammation. This completes the cycle of atopic skin (see illustration).

Factors contributing to the development of atopic dermatitis

There are a number of other interventions that may exacerbate existing symptoms, although they vary from person to person. These include:

There are factors such as (among others) stress and insomnia that can worsen the symptoms of atopic dermatitis.

• certain foods and drinks (particularly dairy products, nuts, shellfish and alcohol)
• allergens (house mites, pollen and/or dust)
• formaldehyde
• detergents
• stress
• insomnia
• sweating
• cigarette smoke

Learn more about the factors that affect the skin.

Solutions

While the symptoms of atopic dermatitis cannot be “cured”, they can be controlled with consistent and regular care.

Softeners

It is recommended to use bath and shower additives that moisturize the skin.

Emollients (or otherwise moisturizers) are the foundation of skin care and should be used daily, regardless of the active or inactive phase of the disease. These include lotions, face creams, ointments, and bath/shower supplements that lubricate the skin and help keep it supple, hydrated, and protected from irritants. It also helps with itching and may reduce the frequency of flare-ups.

The role of emollients is to prevent the exacerbation of atopic dermatitis. This is called basic care.

Key softeners include :

• Omega-6 fatty acids from evening primrose and grape seed extract. They soothe and nourish affected skin while restoring the skin’s natural protective barrier.
• Licochalcone A (licorice root extract). It is a natural antioxidant with anti-inflammatory action that reduces redness and soothes inflammation.

Dermatological care

Treatment with medications, such as topical ointments (usually containing hydrocortisone), can help relieve symptoms of a flare-up and help reduce any inflammation and itching.

Corticosteroids are very effective, fast acting and relieve itching in cases of severe flare-ups. However, they are not suitable for long-term continuous use as they may cause negative side effects. In addition, they can be applied to large areas of the skin; continuous use reduces their effectiveness.

Atopic Dermatitis Individual Daily Facial

Try to control daily care, for example, by making appropriate notes.

• The cold temperatures of are beneficial, especially at night, as sweating causes irritation and itching.
• Basic care products are best kept refrigerated as cold creams and lotions provide additional relief from itching.