How to relieve itching from skin allergies

Sep 18, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Wenmin

Introduction

Skin itching due to allergic reactions should be relieved by minimizing irritation and appropriate symptomatic treatment. During the process of relieving itching, avoid washing with hot water or scratching the skin to prevent worsening damage and possible infection. If itching does not improve after using medication, or if symptoms such as skin breakdown, spreading redness, or swelling occur, seek medical attention immediately. In daily life, maintain adequate skin moisturization to strengthen the skin barrier and reduce the likelihood of allergic reactions.

Skin allergy and itching can be relieved by reducing irritation and appropriate symptomatic interventions. Common measures include cold compresses, applying calamine lotion, using antihistamine creams, taking oral antihistamines, and avoiding exposure to allergens. Seek medical attention promptly if symptoms worsen or unusual changes occur. Detailed recommendations are as follows:

1. Cold compress: Use a clean towel soaked in cold water, wring it until slightly damp, and apply it to the itchy area for 10–15 minutes at a time. This can be repeated several times daily. Cold water helps constrict blood vessels, reduce local inflammatory responses, quickly relieve itching, and prevent skin damage from scratching.

2. Apply calamine lotion: Apply an appropriate amount of calamine lotion evenly to the affected skin. The lotion contains ingredients such as calamine and zinc oxide, which have astringent and anti-itch properties. It absorbs exudate from the skin surface and helps alleviate itching and redness caused by allergic reactions. It can be reapplied after drying.

3. Use antihistamine cream: Choose topical creams containing active ingredients such as loratadine or cetirizine, and apply directly to the affected area 2–3 times daily. These creams block histamine receptors, suppress allergic reactions, and reduce itching, making them suitable for mild localized allergies.

4. Take oral antihistamines: If itching is widespread or severe, oral medications such as loratadine tablets or cetirizine hydrochloride tablets may be used. These drugs work by inhibiting histamine release in the body and provide systemic relief from allergic itching. Follow dosage instructions on the label or as directed by a healthcare provider.

5. Avoid allergen exposure: Identify and avoid potential allergens promptly, such as pollen, animal dander, certain fabric materials, or skincare products. Discontinuing contact with the triggering substance is the fundamental step in controlling allergic reactions and preventing recurrent itching. Pay close attention to the relationship between exposure and symptom onset.

Avoid washing the skin with hot water or scratching during treatment, as these actions may worsen skin damage and lead to infection. Seek immediate medical care if itching persists despite medication, or if symptoms such as skin ulcers or spreading redness and swelling develop. In daily life, maintain proper skin hydration to strengthen the skin barrier and reduce the likelihood of allergic reactions.

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