Stop Dry Itchy Skin-Causes & Cures

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Dry itchy skin? What are the causes? Does psoriasis have a cure? What treatments really work? Here’s a look at some skin conditions that may be accompanied by itching and how they can be treated.

What Causes Itching?

The actual cause of itchy skin is stimulation of specific receptors found only in the skin’s epidermis and dermis layers. But, there are many things that stimulate the receptors.

An itchy rash can develop as a result of exposure to an allergen or toxin. Exposure to poison ivy, oak or sumac is a common cause in the warmer months. Mites, scabies, lice and other parasites can cause rashes and itching.

Eczema or psoriasis can look like a rash, particularly during the early stages, before the plaques start to form. While eczema is typically accompanied by itching, psoriasis itch is rare. All in all, the most common cause is excessive dryness.

Dry itchy skin occurs most commonly in the wintertime. It is aggravated by changes in temperature and humidity; going out into the dry cold from a warm moist building, for example. Hot showers in the wintertime acerbate the condition. Harsh cleansers and general over-cleansing is a common cause.

What Conditions Are Accompanied by Itching?

Other than the skin conditions mentioned above, there are many medical disorders that may be accompanied by dry itchy skin, including thyroid problems, kidney disease, neurological disorders and some kinds of cancer. So, any unexplained itching that lasts for more than a few weeks should be evaluated by a doctor.

What is Inflammation?

Inflammation plays a role in psoriasis, eczema, acne, dermatitis and other skin conditions. Although it is not considered a cause of itchy skin, it usually accompanies it. The redness that you see in an itchy rash is characteristic of inflammation.

Inflammation occurs so that the healing process can begin. It is the immune system’s response to pathogens (bacteria, viruses, parasites, etc), irritation or injury.
Scratching dry itchy skin can cause inflammation and increase itching. While scratching may relieve a localized itch, it aggravates and irritates the skin’s layers. So, the primary goal in treatment is to stop the itch.

Which Creams Are Really Effective?

The most effective creams have anti-inflammatory activity. They improve the skin’s moisture content, which addresses the issue of dryness. However, if the skin’s receptors are still being stimulated by an allergen or irritant, the cream may not relieve the itch. Some creams can actually cause itching, because of irritants like artificial preservatives and added fragrances.

The best creams are those that are free of artificial preservatives and added fragrances, as well as other allergens. Although petrolatum and mineral oil are commonly found in inexpensive creams and lotions, they are not effective moisturizers. Plant oils, including olive, grape seed, jojoba and Shea butter are effective moisturizers.

Psoriasis itch can be very serious and should be evaluated by a doctor. Dry itchy skin can be treated at home with effective moisturizers. Use one after every bath or shower.

And now please visit the XtendSkinCare website listed below for updated information on how to remove dry itchy skin.

About the Author

And now I would like to invite you to visit http://www.XtendSkinCare.com for FREE Instant Access to a very helpful newsletter that will keep you updated on skin care, nutritional supplements and other health related issues. And I have more information on Dry Itchy Skin and How to Treat it, available at http://www.XtendSkinCare.com

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