You Shouldn’t Scratch Itchy Skin and How to Relieve Itchiness Safely

Learn Why You Shouldn’t Scratch Itchy Skin and How to Relieve Itchiness Safely and Effectively.

In the competitive beauty industry of Korea, where skincare trends are constantly evolving and beauty standards are high, it’s rare to find a dermatologist who prioritizes honest, non-commercial advice. Dr. Lee Sang-wook, a leading dermatologist with over 10 years of experience in the heart of Seoul’s Gangnam district, is known for offering practical, scientifically backed skincare tips without any sales pitch. His commitment to helping people maintain healthy skin, whether through homecare or professional treatment, has garnered a massive following on his YouTube channel, which now has over 700,000 subscribers. In this blog, we’ll share expert tips from Dr. Lee, focusing on how to address common skin issues like itching—an issue that many people face globally. With his trustworthy advice, you’ll learn the best ways to manage and prevent itchiness without resorting to harmful or unnecessary treatments.

Itchy Skin Relief Tips

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c8-3c99Td38&t=200s

Why Scratching Itchy Skin Makes It Worse: The Science Behind Itching

Itching is one of the most uncomfortable sensations we experience, and our natural response is often to scratch it. However, while scratching may provide temporary relief, it actually worsens the problem in the long run. Here’s why:

  1. How Scratching Affects Your Nerves: Itchiness activates specific nerve fibers in the skin. When you scratch, it stimulates these fibers further, making them more sensitive to even small triggers. Over time, this can cause the nerves to become more sensitive, making the itching worse. This is why scratching gives you temporary relief, but the sensation returns quickly—and can even intensify.
  2. The Impact on Skin Layers: The skin has multiple layers, with the dermis (the deeper layer) housing nerve endings that detect sensations like pain and itch. When you scratch, it damages the skin and allows these nerve endings to travel closer to the surface, making your skin more prone to irritation and further itchiness.

What Causes Itchy Skin? Understanding the Triggers

Itching can be triggered by a variety of factors, ranging from seasonal changes to underlying health conditions. Common causes of itchy skin include:

  • Seasonal Allergies: In transitional seasons, your skin can become dry, leading to itchiness.
  • Skin Conditions: Dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis, and other skin diseases are known to cause persistent itching.
  • Dry Skin: Dry, cracked skin, especially in winter, can trigger itching.
  • Medications & Supplements: Some medications and supplements, like certain vitamins or painkillers, can cause skin reactions.
  • Systemic Conditions: Conditions like diabetes or kidney disease can lead to dryness and itching.

Identifying the cause of your itching can be challenging, especially if it’s related to allergies or a skin condition. However, it’s essential to address the root cause to relieve the symptoms effectively.

How to Relieve Itching Safely Without Scratching

So, what should you do when your skin starts to itch? Dr. Lee shares his expert tips for managing itchiness safely:

  1. Cool Compress: One of the most effective ways to calm itching is by using cold compresses. Applying cold to the affected area helps to activate cold receptors in the skin, which can interrupt the itching signals. Try using a cold pack or even a simple ice cube wrapped in a cloth for about 10–20 seconds. The cold sensation can numb the area and reduce the urge to scratch.
  2. Moisturize Regularly: Dry skin is one of the leading causes of itching. Dr. Lee emphasizes the importance of moisturizing to prevent dryness. Use a thick, hydrating lotion or ointment, such as petroleum jelly (Vaseline), especially during colder months. However, be cautious when using it in the summer, as it can trap heat and lead to sunburns.
  3. Maintain Optimal Humidity and Temperature: Dry air can exacerbate itching. To avoid this, Dr. Lee suggests keeping your indoor environment between 20°C and 24°C (68°F to 75°F) with a humidity level above 50%. Using a humidifier can help maintain the moisture level in the air, which is essential for your skin’s health.
  4. Avoid Hot Showers: Hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. Opt for lukewarm water and limit your shower time to avoid further drying out your skin.
  5. Avoid Scratching: The most important rule when dealing with itching is don’t scratch! It may feel satisfying in the moment, but it only aggravates the itching, causing a cycle of more irritation. Try distracting yourself with a cold compress or applying an anti-itch cream instead.

Preventing Itchy Skin: Expert Homecare Tips

Preventing itching starts with maintaining a healthy skin barrier and addressing environmental factors that contribute to dryness. Here are some preventive tips to help keep your skin itch-free:

  • Hydrate Your Skin: Apply a nourishing body lotion immediately after showering to lock in moisture. Dr. Lee recommends moisturizing twice or even three times a day, depending on your skin’s needs. For very dry skin, you can mix in a bit of Vaseline to your body lotion for added hydration at night.
  • Manage Stress: Stress can weaken your skin’s immune system, making it more prone to irritation and itching. Practicing relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation can help reduce stress levels and improve your skin’s overall health.
  • Monitor Your Diet: Ensure you’re consuming essential nutrients like vitamins A, D, and E, which are crucial for healthy skin. If you’re taking supplements, check if any could be causing skin reactions.
  • Control Your Environment: Keep your living space at a comfortable temperature and humidity level to prevent your skin from becoming too dry or too humid. In winter, use a humidifier to keep the air moist.
  • Identify Triggers: Pay attention to environmental allergens or foods that could be contributing to your itchy skin. Seasonal allergies are common culprits, and avoiding triggers can help you prevent flare-ups.

Conclusion

Itchy skin can be an annoying and uncomfortable issue, but understanding why it happens and how to manage it can make a world of difference. By following Dr. Lee’s advice, you can relieve itching without the need to scratch, and more importantly, prevent it from becoming a recurring problem.

If you found these tips helpful, feel free to share this article with friends and family who might be dealing with the same issue. Healthy skin is something everyone deserves, and spreading knowledge about proper skin care can help everyone feel their best.