Itchy skin can be caused by contact with wool, soaps, strong detergents, cosmetics, nettles or plants. Insect bites, drug reactions, or skin disorders such as dermatitis, eczema, dry skin, tinea, prickly heat, hives, urticaria, winter itch or herpes zoster may also be a cause.

See also pruritis ani and vulvae.

Click to view photos of this condition

It’s important to relieve the itching sensation to prevent scratching and damaging the skin, which can lead to secondary infection.

Any obvious causes should be removed and you should avoid hot showers, electric blankets, overly warm clothing, wool, hot drinks and spicy foods, as these can induce sweating and may worsen the itching. Soap should also be avoided, as it can be drying and strip away the skins natural protective oils.