For people suffering from atopic dermatitis, how to stop eczema itching immediately is a main concern. Atopic dermatitis, also referred to as eczema, is a condition that makes your skin itchy and red. It is common in children but can occur at any age. Atopic dermatitis is long lasting and tends to flare occasionally and then subside. It may also be accompanied by asthma or hay fever.
Giving in to the urge to scratch may bring temporary relief, but scratching or even rubbing can make it worse. Some people scratch so much that they bleed, leading to infection.
Ways to Relieve Itchy Eczema
1.) Apply a cool compress to itchy skin.
Soak a clean towel in cool water, then wring it until damp. Put the cool, damp towel onto the itchy skin. After removing the compress, apply moisturizer to the skin you just treated with the compress.
2.) Moisturize before bed.
Use an oil-based moisturizer or a medicated cream, such as a steroid cream, before sleeping at night. Your dermatologist can provide stronger moisturizers, if needed.
3.) Use oatmeal.
Finely-ground oats can help calm and soften inflamed skin. Add some of these to lukewarm bathwater and soak for 10 to 15 minutes to help relieve itching and soften rough skin. After bathing, apply baby oil to your skin while you are still wet.
4.) Take antihistamines.
Sedative antihistamines can help, but make sure to take them only if you plan to stay at home or before bedtime. If you’re outdoors, non-sedating ones can also help relieve itching.
5.) Dress in soft fabrics.
Use mild, fragrance-free laundry detergent on your clothes. Do not use fabric softeners or fabric sheets in the dryer. Minimize your exposure to things that are irritating to sensitive skin like wool.
6.) Consider phototherapy.
If your itching is persistent, you may want to try using light therapy, which uses ultraviolet light to penetrate the outer layers of the skin. Phototherapy lamps are easy to use, but first check with your dermatologist the appropriate frequency of using light therapy to treat your eczema.
7.) Apply topical corticosteroid creams or ointments.
These anti-inflammatory medications help relieve inflammation and itching in eczema. Your dermatologist may prescribe a specific corticosteroid cream or ointment for your eczema. Apply it as directed, after you moisturize.
Do not overuse as this type of drugs may cause side effects such as thinning of the skin.
8.) Try to identify and avoid triggers that worsen itching.
Things that can trigger eczema itch include detergents, dust, pollen, soaps, stress, and sweat. Reduce your exposure to your triggers. You may also experience flares from eating certain foods like eggs, milk, and wheat.