Summer comes with its own pleasures and inconveniences. The chilled ice cream, cold beverages, delicious mangoes and watermelons and whatnot. And the inconveniences? Humidity, scorching heat and itchiness. Well, there is nothing you can do about humidity and scorching heat, but what about itchiness?
We might as well agree that it can be a huge convenience, after all scratching your back in public doesn’t look nice. But there are still things you can do to prevent summer itchiness. This blog will discuss the causes and remedies of summer itchiness.
What causes itchiness in summer?
The leading cause of itchiness in summer is prolonged exposure to UV rays, which causes sunburn and damages the skin. The result is inflammation and itchiness. In addition, sweat ducts are blocked in summer, trapping the sweat which may cause bumps, redness and itchiness.
Here are a few home remedies to soothe your skin during the summer:
Apply menthol
Menthol is known for its cooling properties, which can help relieve pain and itching in summer.
When applied to the skin, menthol activates the cold-sensitive receptors, which can help to relieve pain and itching. This cooling effect can be particularly soothing for summer-related itchiness, providing a sense of relief from the heat and discomfort.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is a natural remedy celebrated for its healing and soothing properties. The gel extracted from aloe vera leaves can be applied directly to the skin to alleviate itching and inflammation. Aloe vera is especially effective for sunburned skin, as it not only cools the affected area but also promotes faster healing due to its anti-inflammatory and moisturising properties.
Wet therapy/ice pack
Applying a cool, damp cloth or an ice pack to itchy skin can provide immediate relief. This method, known as wet therapy, helps reduce inflammation and numb the area, thereby decreasing the sensation of itching. It’s essential to wrap the ice pack in a cloth to prevent direct contact with the skin, which could cause frostbite or further irritation.
Apply oatmeal
Oatmeal is another natural remedy that can effectively reduce itchiness. Colloidal oatmeal, which is finely ground oatmeal, can be added to a bath or applied as a paste to the skin. It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help soothe irritated skin, providing relief from itching and promoting healing.
Moisturise
Keeping the skin well-moisturised is crucial during the summer to prevent and alleviate itchiness. Dry skin is more prone to irritation and itching, so applying a good-quality moisturiser can help maintain the skin’s hydration levels. Look for products that are free from fragrances and dyes, which can further irritate sensitive skin.
Apply apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) has antimicrobial properties that can help prevent infections that might arise from scratching itchy skin. Diluting ACV with water and applying it to the skin with a cotton ball can help soothe itchiness and restore the skin’s natural pH balance. However, it’s important to do a patch test first, as ACV can be too harsh for some skin types.
Closing thoughts
When you know the cause, you also know the cure. Prickly heat or itching can be uncomfortable, but with these simple home remedies, you can keep your skin comfortable and itch-free. Whether you use the cooling power of menthol, the healing touch of aloe vera, or the soothing nature of oatmeal, there are plenty of ways to keep your skin happy and healthy during the summer. Beat the heat, especially if it involves summer itching and rashes!
