Itchy skin, or pruritus, is the result of an irritating stimulus on the skin. It is most commonly caused by dry air, skin irritants, or side effects from some medications. It can also be caused by allergies or bug bites. Lotion usually helps most dry skin. Natural remedies for itchy skin, however, may be best for people with sensitive skin.

There are several options for natural remedies for itchy skin. Natural astringents are a great place to start. Astringents will both sooth and moisturize the skin as it works at removing the stimulus making the skin itch. Witch hazel and St. John’s Wort both work well. Lemon juice may also be used.

Aloe vera, a naturally occurring gel from aloe plants, is one of the best natural remedies for itchy skin. It contains vitamin E, which helps to heal the skin. Aloe has natural soothing qualities to stop the itch and reduce inflammation caused by scratching. It also contains anti-fungal and antibiotic agents to help destroy certain causes of itchy skin. For the best results, use aloe fresh from the plant. Just trim off a part of a leaf and apply to the affected area.

There are many substances that can be added to bath water to help relieve itchy, scratchy skin. One of these things is baking soda. It helps to relieve skin irritations. Another way to use baking soda is to mix it with some water and apply it as a paste over itchy skin. Adding peppermint oil to a bath is also thought to relieve itching. Taking a bath in evaporated milk, even just a sponge bath, will relieve itches and help soothe the skin. Adding oatmeal to the milk can quicken the effect.

Some vitamins can help to treat or prevent itchy skin. These natural remedies for itchy skin work from the inside out. Vitamin E can either be ingested or applied directly to the itch. Beta carotene, vitamin C and zinc can also be taken. These vitamins all help to heal the skin, repairing itchy skin.

Itchy skin caused by dry skin or other environmental factors can be easier to prevent than it is to treat. If your dry, itchy skin is caused by winter air, consider using a humidifier. The added moisture in the air can go a long way towards preventing skin problems. Consider switching soap, laundry supplies or perfumes. Any of these products can cause skin irritation.

Natural remedies for itchy skin treat without all of the extra chemicals found in commercially available products. They usually work just as well, if not better than, the products available in stores. If natural remedies are not helping your skin, and the persistent itch continues for several days, it may be time to visit your doctor. Itchy skin is sometimes a symptom of a more serious underlying condition.