Itchy, irritated skin? Here's what to do

The skin is the body's largest organ, performing a range of important jobs. With a slightly acidic pH, the skin is our first line of protection against external bacteria and germs. The skin also helps control our body temperature, provides essential oils such as sebum to keep the skin smooth and can repair itself – regenerating a new layer of skin every 30 days¹.

While the skin can do many wonderful things, it can be prone to skin irritations such as dermatitis. Dermatitis is a term for conditions that cause inflammation and irritation to the skin. We see this in the form of rashes, hives or sores which are often itchy. Allergies, bacteria, viruses, cold weather, chemicals, and other underlying health conditions can also trigger itching of the skin. Here is how to find relief.

 

Skin Irritation Prevention

For most cases of dry, itchy, irritated skin there are simple self-care steps that can help:

Don’t spend too long in the shower. Hot water and prolonged exposure to water can dehydrate the skin. Leaving it dry and flaky.

Be aware of some irritant perfumes in some soaps, deodorants, and lotions, these can increase the sensitivity of the skin and in some cases, cause allergic reactions². Look out for these common ingredients to avoid:

• Limonene
• Linalool
• Citral
• Coumarin

 

Choose loose clothing and avoid irritation from synthetic materials and wool.

Find skincare that is pH-balanced, hypoallergenic, and dermatologically tested to reduce the risk of irritation. 

 

Treating Itchy Skin

Severe itchiness can be an indication of an underlying health issue. There are many signs that mean you should talk to a medical professional, such as:

• The skin is so itchy it begins disrupting daily activities or sleep.
• The rash or hives are severe or widespread.
• You notice signs of infection such as pus or yellow scabs.
• Symptoms persist despite self-care measures.

 

If you have any of these concerns about dry, itchy, irritated skin, book in to see your GP or a dermatologist as soon as possible.

Doctors may prescribe corticosteroid creams and ointments for dermatitis; and injectable corticosteroids for severe cases of the condition. Other treatment options include phototherapy (exposing affected skin to ultraviolet light) and immunosuppressant therapy that reduces inflammation.

 

Skin Care Relief

On the surface of our skin is the acid protection mantle. This protective barrier is slightly acidic (pH 4.5-5.5) and does an essential job of preventing bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants from entering our bodies. When the skin comes into frequent contact with excess moisture or chemicals such as alkaline soaps and strong perfumes it can change the pH and weaken the skin's natural protection, becoming itchy and irritated.

Experts recommend pH-balanced products that are formulated to support the acid mantle and guard against irritation and infection.

First, choose products that minimise the damage caused by traditional soaps and washing, which are alkaline and strip the skin leaving it feeling tight and itchy. Instead, use a wash lotion that is skin-friendly pH balanced with ingredients that nourish the skin. The MoliCare Skin Wash Lotion is dermatologically tested and formulated to gently clean skin at risk of irritation while deeply nourishing.

Then choose the best cream for itchy skin. Irritated skin can be lacking in moisture and low in nutrients. For intensive treatment, after cleansing use body creams and lotions that add intense moisture and are rich in nutrients. MoliCare Skin Body Lotion contains NutriSkin Protection Complex and nourishes the skin with natural essential fatty acids, creatine, amino acids, and essential oils. Additionally, the MoliCare Skin Hand cream is designed to be used on very dry and chapped hands to restore moisture balance.

 

Click here to find out more about the MoliCare Skin range.

 

 

References:

1. Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Skin. Cleveland Clinic. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/10978-skin
2. De Groot, (2020) Fragrances: Contact Allergy and Other Adverse Effects. American Contact Dermatitis Society. Retrieved from https://www.contactderm.org/UserFiles/file/Fragrances__Contact_Allergy_and_Other_Adverse.3-1.pdf.