Itchy skin, or itching in general, is incredibly unpleasant, especially when you don't know the cause or what's triggering it. But don't panic! I've compiled everything you need to know about it here – from possible causes to proven methods for relieving the itch.
What does itchy skin mean?
Itchy skin is referred to in medicine as pruritus and is often a sign of allergies, skin diseases such as neurodermatitis or psoriasis, insect bites or dry skin.
A distinction is made between acute and chronic itching. In most cases, the itching is only acute, meaning it only occurs for a short period and can be attributed to a specific cause. If the itching becomes chronic, you should definitely have it checked by a doctor.
When should I see a doctor if I have itching?
You should see a doctor if:
- the itching has already lasted two to six weeks
- Other symptoms may occur, such as fever, fatigue, night sweats, and excessive thirst.
- the itching is so intense that you scratch yourself raw or significantly disrupt your daily life/sleep
- Additionally, a rash, redness, or blisters may be visible.
- the itching spreads all over the body
Causes of itching
The most common causes of itching are:
- Dry skin: occurs mainly in winter; dry air from heating systems and the change between very cold outdoor temperatures and very warm indoor temperatures can contribute to this.
- Skin diseases such as neurodermatitis, psoriasis or contact dermatitis
- Insect bites
- Allergies
Itching can also be a symptom of another internal disease (such as liver problems, diabetes or thyroid diseases) or be triggered by stress and other psychological factors.
If you're taking new medications or using new topical, prescribed creams, the itching could be a side effect. You should check the package insert and talk to your pharmacist or doctor.
7 quick tips against itching
- Cooling instead of scratching: This feels very pleasant – especially for insect bites and when the skin feels warmer.
- Moisturizing cream with urea: Provides intensive hydration and is wonderfully helpful for dry, itchy skin.
- Gentle cleansing: An absolute must to avoid further stressing, irritating, or drying out the skin.
- Humidifiers: Ideal for counteracting dry air from heating in winter.
- Cotton clothing: Rubbing clothing, especially made of synthetic fabrics, can further irritate the skin and increase itching.
- Reducing stress: Sometimes it sounds easier than you think – take time for yourself and try to lower your stress level with meditation and other mindfulness exercises.
- Keep your nails short: Scratching only worsens the skin condition and the itching – with short nails you can scratch less and at least not cause as much damage to your skin.
Ingredients that can help with itching
Certain ingredients can provide relief from itching – but mainly only if it's related to dry skin. If you can't rule out a skin condition or another cause, you should have the itching checked by a doctor.
Urea
Urea is one of the most effective ingredients for itchy, dry skin. It binds moisture in the upper layer of skin, thus strengthening the skin barrier.
Especially in cases of dry skin, neurodermatitis, or winter-related itching, urea can help to significantly reduce feelings of tightness and itching.
The correct concentration is important: 5–10% is suitable for dry skin, while higher doses can cause burning on very sensitive or irritated skin.
Great products with urea
Skintegra – Nectar
17,90 €
with the code
-0%
Latest lowest price: 17,89 €
(Prices incl. VAT, plus shipping)
Panthenol
Panthenol has a soothing and anti-inflammatory effect and supports skin regeneration . It helps to relax irritated skin and allow minor irritations to subside more quickly.
At the same time, panthenol improves skin elasticity and strengthens the natural protective barrier . This makes the skin more resistant to external stimuli that can trigger itching – such as dry air or mechanical friction.
Effective panthenol formulas
Geek & Gorgeous – Liquid Hydration
8,90 €
with the code
-0%
Latest lowest price: 8,90 €
(Prices incl. VAT, plus shipping)
Geek & Gorgeous – Jelly Joker
9,90 €
with the code
-0%
Latest lowest price: 9,90 €
(Prices incl. VAT, plus shipping)
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is known for its cooling and moisturizing properties . In cases of acute itching – for example, after sun exposure or minor irritation – aloe vera can soothe the skin immediately.
It moisturizes the skin, has a mild anti-inflammatory effect, and relieves feelings of tightness . It's important to use the purest possible aloe vera gel without alcohol or fragrances to avoid further irritation.
Aloe vera products to soothe the skin
Benton – Aloe Propolis Soothing Gel
18,90 €
with the code
-0%
Latest lowest price: 17,96 €
(Prices incl. VAT, plus shipping)
Holika Holika – Aloe Facial Cleansing Foam
8,90 €
with the code
-0%
Latest lowest price: 8,90 €
(Prices incl. VAT, plus shipping)
Ceramides
Ceramides are natural components of the skin barrier and play a key role in itchy skin. If they are lacking, the skin loses more moisture – dryness and itching are often the result.
Skincare products containing ceramides help to repair and stabilize the skin barrier in the long term . This makes the skin less sensitive and less prone to reacting to external stimuli such as cold, dry air from heating, or harsh cleansing products.
Effective picks with ceramides
NERDS. – Barrier Restore Fluid
18,90 €
with the code
-100%
Latest lowest price: 18,89 €
(Prices incl. VAT, plus shipping)
Transparent Lab – Barrier Restoring Hydrating Cream
17,90 €
with the code
-0%
Latest lowest price: 17,89 €
(Prices incl. VAT, plus shipping)
Transparent Lab – Ceramide Barrier Body Treatment
26,90 €
with the code
-0%
Latest lowest price: 26,90 €
(Prices incl. VAT, plus shipping)
Transparent Lab – Ceramide Repair Moisturizer
17,90 €
with the code
-0%
Latest lowest price: 17,89 €
(Prices incl. VAT, plus shipping)
Cica
Cica is known for its wound-healing and anti-inflammatory properties . It soothes stressed skin, supports collagen production, and can reduce redness.
Cica is particularly helpful for itching when the skin is inflamed or hypersensitive – for example, after irritation or in the case of sensitive skin.
Picks with calming cica
Transparent Lab – Zi-k Cica Repairing Balm
14,90 €
with the code
-0%
Latest lowest price: 14,90 €
(Prices incl. VAT, plus shipping)
Geek & Gorgeous – Stress Less
11,90 €
with the code
-0%
Latest lowest price: 11,90 €
(Prices incl. VAT, plus shipping)
Oats (Colloidal Oatmeal)
Oats are a proven remedy for itching and are even used medically for atopic dermatitis . They contain avenanthramides, which have anti-inflammatory properties and can noticeably relieve itching.
In addition, oats strengthen the skin barrier and reduce redness . Oats are a particularly well-tolerated ingredient for dry, sensitive, or irritated skin.
Soothing oat care
Acnemy - Zitcalm Cleansing Gel
9,90 €
with the code
-0%
Latest lowest price: 9,90 €
(Prices incl. VAT, plus shipping)
Minimalist – Oat Extract 06% Cleanser
9,90 €
with the code
-0%
Latest lowest price: 9,90 €
(Prices incl. VAT, plus shipping)
Which ingredients should you avoid?
You should avoid the following ingredients if you have itchy skin:
- Fragrances
- alcohol
- aggressive surfactants
I hope these tips have helped you and relieved the itching! Please let me know if you have any further questions or comments.
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