How to Soothe Your Sensitive and Irritated Skin
Whether from allergies or mosquito bites, itchy skin is uncomfortable.
Irritation might lead the skin to red, itchy, dry, scaly, or inflamed appearance. In some cases, you can experience pustules or bumps on the skin.
These are often caused by the immune system when it senses any potential threats. The immune system generates inflammatory compounds to deal with foreign bodies.
While itchy skin heals on its own, sometimes it doesn’t go away. To treat your irritated skin, here are some effective remedies you can try.
Cold compress is one of the simple remedies to cure irritated skin. Good thing is that it can be easily prepared. The remedy eases the pain and itch caused by a rash.
Cold compress works by restricting blood flow to an inflamed area, thereby easing swelling and inflammation and can stop itching immediately.
There are many ways to use a cold compress to soothe irritated skin. For example, you can apply a damp cloth to the affected area. Hold on the skin until pain or itching eases.
Alternatively, you can wrap some ice cubes in a soft cloth. But avoid placing ice directly on the skin.
Aloe vera is known for its therapeutic properties. It promotes the healing of the irritated skin (as it is also anti-inflammatory). It contains vitamin B-12, zinc, vitamins (A, C, E), and essential fatty acids, making it an effective remedy for itching and irritation. Aloe vera is easy to use.
Make sure to wash and dry the affected area before the application to enhance the absorption of the remedy. Cut open an aloe leaf, obtain the gel, and apply it directly to the affected skin. Or you can purchase aloe gel from any drug store. But prefer using fresh aloe as aloe can degrade and lose some effectiveness over time. You can use aloe gel twice or as prescribed by your doctor.
Colloidal oatmeal is powdered oatmeal that you can dissolve in water. The resulting solution eases dryness and itching. Colloidal oatmeal contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, both of which can ease skin irritation. Colloidal oatmeal is also available in lotions and creams.
Fill your bathtub with warm water. Mix one cup of colloidal oatmeal into water. Soak for 30 minutes. Rinse off with a lukewarm shower.
Coconut oil is an effective remedy for several skin concerns, including irritated and sensitive skin. Extracted from coconuts, it contains antioxidants and is loaded with moisturizing properties. It also contains fatty acids that repair the skin barrier. That’s why the oil is a potent treatment for irritated skin.
It is easy to use. Just apply it to the affected part. Prefer virgin or unprocessed coconut oil as it contains several antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.
Tea tree oil is also counted among useful remedies for skin health. It is rich in antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. The oil is effective for the skin suffering from viral, fungal, bacterial, and infections. It can also soothe irritating skin.
Make sure to dilute tea tree oil before use. You can dilute it by mixing a few drops of other oils such as olive oil or coconut oil. Apply it to the affected area after taking a bath or shower. Use it with caution anywhere near the eyes.
Baking soda or sodium bicarbonate is easily found in most kitchens. It is mainly used in many baked goods, and you can even use it to clean your household items. Baking soda is also used in many oral healthcare products.
Likewise, it is known as an effective remedy for itchy skin. The chemical composition of baking soda works as a buffer, soothing the skin as well as maintaining its pH balance.
Put 1-2 cups of baking soda in a tub of lukewarm water and soak. Rinse off, pat dry, and apply a moisturizer.
(CAUTION: Keep the ratio of 1 part baking soda to 10 parts water.)
What If These Home Remedies Do Not Help?
So these are some effective home remedies for skin irritation. However, it is important to see your doctor if the symptoms of irritated skin don’t go away. Irritated skin might be a sign of a more critical health issue.
