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Skin & hair · 5 min

When skin itches: cool, not scratch

Scratching brings relief for a moment, then more itch. A cool cloth, a lighter layer and a plain moisturiser are kinder to the skin.

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Itchy skin can be hard to ignore, especially at night. Scratching damages the skin and tends to make the itch worse, which makes you scratch more. Breaking that loop gently is often the first step towards calmer skin.

The steps

Four small steps,in your own time.

  1. When the itch starts, hold a cool, damp cloth on the area for a few minutes instead of scratching.

  2. Smooth on a plain, unperfumed moisturiser afterwards, and keep a pot within reach of where you sit and sleep.

  3. Wear soft, loose cotton next to the skin, and keep the bedroom cool rather than warm.

  4. Keep your nails short, and if you scratch in your sleep, try cotton gloves at night. Notice when the itch is worst and write it down.

The reason

Why it helps

Itch and scratching feed each other: scratching inflames the skin, which makes it itchier. Cooling and moisturising soothe the skin without breaking it. Heat, wool and perfumed products are common triggers, so small changes in clothes and bedding can make a noticeable difference.

A gentle variation

If a cool cloth is not to hand, press or pat the itchy area firmly with your palm instead of scratching. Short, lukewarm showers are kinder than long hot baths.

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WE · TRIBE

Try itwith someone.

If the person you care for scratches a lot, especially someone who cannot easily say what is wrong, look for a rash, dry patches or a new product or medicine, and keep their nails short.

Make it a plan in HIVELIVE, with WE

Try it today

Next time your skin itches, hold a cool, damp cloth on it for a few minutes and smooth on a plain moisturiser instead of scratching.

Add it to your day

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