You can probably stop itching with the use of over-the-counter products or certain home remedies. There are additionally some things you can try to prevent yourself from doing that might make your itching worse. In many cases, the best way to stop itching is related to what caused your itching in the first place. It is not always possible to determine the cause of itching, but if you know what caused it you can probably choose the most appropriate treatment for stopping it. If your itching persists for longer than 48 hours and does not respond to treatment, you may need to check with your doctor in case it is related to some other health problem.
Some of the best products used to stop itching that may be purchased over the counter are those containing hydrocortisone cream. Calamine lotion and oral antihistamines may also be effective. Hydrocortisone cream tends to be effective for almost any type of itch, while calamine lotion usually works well for insect bites. Oral antihistamines are often recommended when itching is related to some type of skin allergy, such as dermatitis. If oral antihistamines are used, it is important not to take more than the recommended dosage.
In addition to taking over-the-counter medication, you may also be able to find some itching relief with various home remedies. You can sprinkle some baking soda or cornstarch into lukewarm bathwater and soak in it to get immediate itching relief. Another thing that may give you some relief from itching is to create a cold compress. You can do this by folding up a handkerchief and dipping it into an anti-itching mixture. Some people dip cold compresses into whole milk because it has some natural anti-itching properties. Hold the compress onto the itchy area for several minutes at a time every hour to stop itching.
There are certain things you may be doing that are making your itching worse. As hard as it may be, try not to scratch your itchy spots. This can break open your skin, which leads to further irritation and more itchiness. Instead of scratching, apply a lotion or cream to stop the itching. You should also avoid showering or bathing in very hot water because hot water tends to dry the skin out. Skin that is too dry usually becomes tight and itchy, which will probably make your symptoms worse. Keep your bath and shower water at either cool or lukewarm temperatures.