Itchiness may not seem like a big issue in the beginning but it will get annoying and disruptive when you start experiencing it every night. Itchiness tends to get worse at night compared to the daytime because the body releases cytokines in the evening that increase inflammation and itching. Moreover, they reduce the secretion of corticosteroid hormones in the body.

Corticosteroid hormones help in reducing inflammation. The fact that there are fewer distractions at night while trying to sleep makes the itching worse. If you are tired of itchy skin at night, here are a few remedies you can try to get some relief:

Keep the skin cool

If you are tired of itchy skin at night, keep it cool. Keeping the skin cool can help in reducing inflammation and itching. There are various ways to cool your skin. For instance, you can apply an ice pack to the itchy and inflamed areas. A cold, wet compress can provide a lot of relief as well. Also, you can cover the itchy spots with a damp covering. This will prevent you from scratching the itchy bumps repeatedly. Usually the more you scratch, the more you want to scratch.  However, implementing this technique will be very difficult if these spots are large or all over your body.

Stress reduction

This may not be obvious, but stress can lead to itchy skin. Due to stress, the itchy feeling can get heightened and make you feel more annoyed and irritated. However, this is not an instant solution that will help to sleep at night. You will have to work on your stress and the reason for it over time. This is usually not a quick fix but will gradually provide relief from chronic itching. You can try meditation and yoga to reduce stress.

Apply moisturizers

Itchy skin can result from dry skin. Skin can get dehydrated due to various reasons. You can get your smooth and supple skin back by moisturizing it. There are many moisturizers available in the market. Look for a quality moisturizer designed for sensitive skin. You can easily find lots of affordable options. Always consider buying a heavy product like cream over a lotion.

This is because thick creams will add additional moisture to your skin. Cooling moisturizers that contain menthol can be an excellent solution for this. Apply the cream to your skin after a shower and rub it gently to moisturize. Make sure you cover the entire area bothering you.

Take baking soda or oatmeal baths

Taking a bath in lukewarm water before going to bed can provide relief from itchy skin at night. Make sure you only use a soap designed for sensitive skin. Besides mild soap, you can do a few other things while bathing to reduce itchiness.

For instance, taking a baking soda bath can be very beneficial. Just add a cup of baking soda into a bucket of lukewarm water and allow it to soak for an hour. Oatmeal can also be used for this purpose. Use a blender to grind oatmeal into a fine powder. You can then add it to the water.

Apple cider vinegar

Many people believe that apple cider vinegar is not beneficial to itchy skin. Contrary to that, you can get a lot of relief by using it. It has antiseptic, anti-fungal, and anti-bacterial properties. Applying it to your skin can reduce itching. Instead of the commonly used apple cider vinegar in most kitchens, opt for raw, organic, unfiltered apple cider vinegar.

It will be more effective in getting rid of the itch. If there are only a few itchy spots, you can apply it with a cotton ball directly to the skin. However, if you feel itchy all over your body, add 2 to 3 cups of apple cider vinegar to a bucket of water, soak for 30 minutes, and then bathe in it.

Drink plenty of water

Drinking plenty of water will benefit your health in various ways, including relieving itchiness. It will help to keep your skin hydrated and prevent dry skin. Moreover, drinking water flushes out toxins from your body that can irritate you.

Also, you should reduce your caffeine and alcohol consumption as they dehydrate the skin and can cause more itching. If possible, replace your morning coffee and evening cocktails with regular water. You can consider using a humidifier in your bedroom while sleeping as well.

Treat with medication

You may not be able to get rid of itchy skin at night using only home remedies. In such cases, you should treat it with medication. You can get over-the-counter anti-itch ointments if there are small, itchy areas all over your body. These contain only 1% hydrocortisone. Hydrocortisone is a steroid used for itching, redness, and swelling. If it does not provide relief, you will require more potent ointments, requiring a doctor’s prescription.

Consult an expert

If you have tried the above methods to get rid of your itchy skin and you aren’t feeling relief within a week or two, you should see a doctor. There are various issues that can lead to dry skin and itchiness like an allergic reaction or a skin disorder. Dry and itchy skin can sometimes be a symptom of more serious illnesses. Therefore, it is always advised to consult an expert. Kratz Allergy & Asthma is one of the most reputed and trusted centers in Florida, dedicated to providing treatments for various skin-related issues. Contact 727-819-1610 to schedule an appointment today!