Anti-itch creams, such as calamine lotion, antihistamine creams, or corticosteroid creams, contain ingredients with anti-allergic, anti-inflammatory, soothing, or protective properties that help relieve itching.
Itching can have several causes, including allergies, dry skin, insect bites, sunburn, dermatitis, psoriasis, chickenpox, or fungal infections.
These creams are available at most pharmacies and drugstores, but they should be used under the guidance of a doctor or dermatologist, depending on the cause of the itching, how long treatment is needed, and the appropriate dosage for each person.
Main anti-itch creams
Some of the most commonly recommended anti-itch creams and ointments include:
1. Calamine creams
Calamine is a combination of zinc oxide and other ingredients that help relieve itching thanks to its astringent and skin-protective properties.
Calamine creams and lotions can be used alone or as a complement to medical treatment for conditions such as allergies, insect bites, sunburn, or chickenpox.
Examples of calamine-based products available in the US include Caladryl Lotion, Aveeno Anti-Itch Lotion, and Calamine Plus. These are generally suitable for adults and children over 2 years old. Calamine products that contain camphor should not be used in children under 2 years old.
2. Antihistamine creams
Antihistamine creams help relieve allergic skin reactions, such as atopic dermatitis or insect bites, by blocking histamine and reducing inflammation and itching.
Examples of over-the-counter antihistamine creams in the US include Benadryl Itch Stopping Cream (with diphenhydramine) and Aveeno 1% Hydrocortisone Anti-Itch Cream, which can help with mild allergic skin irritation.
These creams should not be used in children under 2 years of age unless directed by a pediatrician.
3. Corticosteroid creams
Corticosteroid creams are often recommended when itching causes significant discomfort or when other treatments haven’t been effective.
They are commonly used to treat psoriasis, eczema, severe allergic reactions, or insect bites. However, these creams should always be used under medical supervision, as prolonged or improper use can cause side effects such as skin thinning.
Examples of corticosteroid creams approved in the US include hydrocortisone 1% cream (available over the counter) and stronger prescription options such as triamcinolone and desoximetasone creams.
4. Moisturizing, nourishing, and soothing creams
In some cases, itching is caused by very dry or irritated skin, atopic dermatitis, or irritation from shaving or chemical exposure.
In these cases, using a good moisturizing and soothing cream may be enough to relieve discomfort and itching. For people with atopic dermatitis, it’s important to choose products that are hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and formulated for sensitive skin.
Examples of suitable creams include CeraVe Moisturizing Cream, Eucerin Advanced Repair Cream, Vanicream Moisturizing Cream, and Aveeno Skin Relief Moisturizing Lotion. Aloe vera gel, such as Fruit of the Earth Aloe Vera Gel, can also help soothe mild irritation, insect bites, or sunburn.
5. Topical anesthetic creams
Topical anesthetic creams are a subtype of anti-itch creams that contain local anesthetics such as pramoxine, lidocaine, or benzocaine, which numb the skin and reduce itching or burning sensations.
Common examples include Sarna Sensitive Lotion, which contains pramoxine, and Gold Bond Medicated Anti-Itch Cream, which may contain pramoxine or menthol.
These products are typically used for itching caused by insect bites, mild burns, or irritation related to shaving or contact with plants.
Because benzocaine can trigger allergic reactions in some individuals, pramoxine-based options are generally preferred.
6. Antifungal or antibacterial creams
Antifungal or antibacterial creams are useful when itching results from fungal or bacterial skin infections, as they target the underlying cause rather than only relieving symptoms.
Examples include clotrimazole, miconazole, and ketoconazole for conditions like ringworm or athlete’s foot, and mupirocin for bacterial skin infections.
These medications are used for fungal infections, impetigo, or secondary infections that can occur due to scratching.
They should only be used when an infection has been confirmed by a healthcare professional.
When to see a doctor
It’s important to see a dermatologist if itching doesn’t improve or is accompanied by other symptoms, such as:
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Red or grayish patches or lesions on the skin
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Peeling, swelling, or irritation
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Small white or red bumps
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Blisters that may break and release fluid
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Dry or flaky skin
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Scabs or crusts
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Burning or stinging sensation
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Changes in skin sensitivity
A doctor can evaluate your symptoms and medical history and may order diagnostic tests to identify the cause of the itching. Based on the findings, they can recommend the most appropriate anti-itch cream or other treatment options.