Itchy Skin Causes & Tips

Discover what causes itchy skin and our tips for reducing them

What's in this article:

Read Time: 5 minutes

What is itchy skin?
Is your skin itching on your face, your body or all over?
What causes itchy skin?
Itchy skin but no rash?
Itchy skin at night?
Some basic skincare tips for skin prone to itchy skin
How to stop itchy skin from occurring
Summary
FAQs

What is Itchy Skin?

Itchy skin, also known as pruritus, is a common sensation that causes a strong urge to scratch the skin. It can affect any part of the body, and while it is usually temporary, it can be persistent and uncomfortable. Itchy skin may be triggered by various factors, including dry skin, allergies, irritants or even infections. In some cases, itching can occur without visible signs like rashes or bumps.

While occasional itchiness is normal, if it persists or becomes severe, it could indicate an underlying issue that requires attention. Be sure to seek medical attention if this is the case. Understanding the causes and finding the right treatment can help manage and alleviate discomfort.

Is your skin itching on your face, your body or all over?

The Body

One of the most common itchy skin causes is dry skin, seasonal allergies or when your skin has been in contact with an irritant. Other itchy skin causes for the body may be related to bug bites such as mosquitos, spiders or other insects, these bites are so small it is common not to see them but experience the itching. Bug bites like this are usually nothing to be worried about, however, if the itching persists, we recommend you see a doctor for further examination.

Itchy legs are especially common in colder months due to dryness, shaving, or tight clothing, and can often be soothed with a rich moisturiser. Itchy hands, on the other hand, may result from frequent washing, exposure to cleaning products, or even seasonal dryness, and benefit from gentle, fragrance-free hand creams.

The Face

Itchy skin on the face is most common in the winter, this being due to the cold dry air which can lead to dry irritated skin on the face. Seasonal allergies or environmental allergies can cause itchy skin all over, specifically an itching on the face. Other causes for itchy skin on the face are food/medication allergies as well as rosacea which is a skin condition that causes itching and tingling on the cheeks.

All Over

Itching all over the body can be linked to skin disorders such as eczema, xerosis or others. However, it can also be linked to infections or more serious underlying diseases, such as liver disease, kidney disease, diabetes, thyroid problems, anaemia or lymphoma. In all cases, it is advisable to have an examination to determine the cause and obtain appropriate treatment.

5 causes of itchy skin

What causes itchy skin?

Itchy skin can be caused by a variety of factors, many of which are easily treatable with the right care. The most common causes include:

Young woman using Nivea Body Milk Rich Nourishing

Dry Skin:

One of the leading causes, especially in colder months. When skin loses moisture, it can become tight, flaky, and irritated, leading to persistent itching.

Allergies:

Seasonal allergies, food sensitivities, or reactions to certain skincare products can trigger itching. Your skin may react to pollen, dust, or even specific ingredients in soaps or lotions. If you're experiencing persistent or severe itching, it's important to seek professional medical advice.

Skin Conditions:

Conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and hives can cause itchy, inflamed skin. These conditions may require special treatment to soothe and repair your skin.

Infections:

Fungal infections, bacterial infections, or even viruses like chickenpox can lead to intense itching. It is important to consult your doctor about the treatment of these illnesses.

Environmental Factors:

Exposure to harsh weather, such as extreme heat or cold, can make your skin dry and itchy. Similarly, too much sun exposure or chlorinated water can leave your skin feeling irritated.

Itchy skin but no rash?

The most common cause of itchy skin with no rash is again dry skin. This dry skin is usually the result of environmental factors, if you have been in the sun too long, cold winter conditions, dry conditions or even skin being overexposed to water. Dry skin is also common to worsen as a person gets older as the skin ages as our skin loses some of its natural oils over time. However, they could also be due to an underlying illness. Please consult your doctor if you have any doubts.

Itchy skin at night?

The technical term used for itchy skin at night is nocturnal pruritus which can be very uncomfortable to deal with so much so that you can have sleepless nights over it. Causes for itchy skin at night can be segmented into:

- Natural causes
- Medical causes

Young woman using Nivea Rich Nourishing body cream

Natural itchy skin causes for the night are usually related to circadian rhythm; this is the internal 24-hour cycle the body goes through in response to its environment. This can lead to itchy skin at night as both blood flow and body temperature increase in the evening, this rise in skin temperature can make your skin feel itchy. Following circadian rhythm, your body also releases certain substances throughout the day, this also varies by time of day. During the night your body releases more cytokines, which can increase inflammation as well as a reduction in the production of hormones such as corticosteroids which reduce inflammation.

Several medical conditions lead to itchy skin at night, however, it is important to remember to see your GP before you decide this is the cause and try to treat it. The medical conditions include; Skin diseases (such as eczema), bugs (scabies, lice or bedbugs), kidney disease or liver disease, anaemia, thyroid problems, leukaemia or lymphoma or even nerve disorder.

Your mind can in fact be one of the many itchy skin causes. The feeling of itchy skin at night can intensify, this is because during the day you keep yourself busier so you are more distracted from the sensation whereas at night your mind can fixate on the itchy feeling making it seem worse than it is.

Some basic skincare tips for itchy skin

There are different ways to help itchy skin, some simple tips can even be put into practice at home. For an instant itchy skin remedy, we recommend you apply a cool wet compress to the itchy area. A hand towel with cold water for 5 to 10 minutes can be very effective as a remedy for itchy skin all over.

If your skin tends to be dry, this can also cause itching. In this case, your first point of action must be to moisturise your skin. We recommend you use a long-lasting moisturiser or lotion that offers intensive care, we recommend NIVEA Rich Nourishing Body Lotion.

If your skin is itchy and dry due to over-exposure to the sun then we recommend you apply an after-sun moisturiser with aloe vera such as our Moisturising After Sun Lotion. This will provide instant relief and moisturise skin for up to 48 hours.

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Young black woman using Nivea Body Milk Rich Nourishing with Almond Oil

How to stop itchy skin from occurring

For how to stop itchy skin from occurring there are precautions you can take, these can be precautions in the products you are using, the environment you expose your skin to and even the clothing you wear.

For the environment you expose your skin to, you should avoid extreme temperature changes, the optimal conditions to avoid itching skin are a neutrally humid environment. If you are prone to dry skin and eczema, then a humidifier during winter is recommended.

The clothes you wear can help to stop itching, we advise you to wear loose-fitting, cotton clothes as well as avoid fabrics such as wool and synthetic materials. These can irritate the skin further and lead to intense itching, especially for those with sensitive skin.

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Whether you're dealing with tightness, flakiness or persistent dryness, NIVEA the Repair and Care range works to help restore comfort and resilience.

Summary

Itchy skin can be an uncomfortable and frustrating experience but understanding its causes and knowing how to care for your skin can help provide relief. Whether it's triggered by cold weather, irritants, or underlying health issues, identifying the cause is key to finding relief. Moisturising regularly and using soothing treatments can help restore comfort and prevent further irritation. If itching persists or becomes severe, it's important to seek medical advice to address any underlying conditions. With the right care, you can manage and soothe itchy skin effectively.

FAQs

What causes itchy skin?

Itchy skin can be triggered by dryness, allergic reactions, insect bites, skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis, or even stress. Environmental factors like cold weather or harsh soaps can also contribute. In some cases, they may be a sign of a potentially serious infection or general illness. Consult your doctor if you also have other symptoms or the situation worsens.

Why is my skin itchy but there is no visible rash?

Itching without a rash is often due to dry skin, internal imbalances, or irritation from personal care products. It can also be a symptom of conditions like kidney or liver issues, so persistent symptoms should be checked by a doctor.

Why does my skin itch more at night?

At night, your body’s natural rhythms—also known as your circadian rhythm—affect how your skin functions. This internal clock regulates various processes over a 24-hour cycle, including temperature, hormone levels, and skin hydration. At night, it tends to lower skin moisture levels and raise skin temperature, both of which can make itching feel more intense.

How can I help to soothe itchy skin at home?

Some simple tips, such as applying a damp cloth to the skin, can help soothe the itching sensation. To protect the skin from itching, use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturiser regularly, take lukewarm (not hot) showers, and avoid harsh soaps. Using soothing ingredients like Glycerin, Aloe Vera, or Provitamin B5 integrated into formulas designed for sensitive skin can also help relieve irritation.

When should I see a doctor about itchy skin?

If itching lasts more than two weeks, disrupts sleep, is severe, or is accompanied by other symptoms like weight loss or fatigue, consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.

Can stress cause itchy skin?

Yes, stress can trigger or worsen itchy skin by increasing inflammation and altering your skin barrier. Managing stress through relaxation techniques can help ease symptoms.

How do I prevent itchy skin from coming back?

Keep your skin moisturised, use gentle skincare products, stay hydrated, and avoid known irritants. Wearing soft, breathable fabrics and maintaining a cool environment can also help.

Why does my skin itch during pregnancy?

Itching during pregnancy is common and usually due to skin stretching, hormonal changes, or increased blood flow. As your body adapts to pregnancy, areas like your belly, thighs, and breasts may experience more dryness or discomfort, leading to itchiness.