Oct 23, 2024 · Itchy skin is an irritating sensation that makes you want to scratch. It's also called pruritus (proo-RIE-tus). Itchy skin is often caused by dry skin and is common in older adults, as skin tends to become drier with age. Depending on the cause of your itchiness, your skin may look no different than usual or it may be inflamed, rough or have bumps.

Oct 23, 2024 · Controlling itchy skin symptoms can be challenging and may require long-term therapy. Options include: Corticosteroid creams and ointments. If your skin is itchy and inflamed, your health care provider may suggest applying a medicated cream or ointment to the affected areas. You might then cover the treated skin with damp cotton material.

Dec 19, 2023 · Irritant contact dermatitis develops when the skin comes into contact with certain things that cause a rash. Irritant contact dermatitis is different from allergic contact dermatitis but shares some features. Some people react to strong irritants after just one exposure. Others may develop a rash after repeated contact with even mild irritants.

Dermatitis is a common condition that causes swelling and irritation of the skin. It has many causes and forms and often involves itchy, dry skin or a rash. Or it might cause the skin to blister, ooze, crust or flake. Three common types of this condition are atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis and seborrheic dermatitis.

May 2, 2024 · For example, the rash may show up along a leg that brushed against poison ivy. The rash can develop within minutes to hours of exposure, and it can last 2 to 4 weeks. Signs and symptoms of contact dermatitis vary widely and may include: An itchy rash; Leathery patches that are darker than usual (hyperpigmented), typically on brown or Black skin

Psoriasis is a skin disease that causes a rash with itchy, scaly patches, most commonly on the knees, elbows, trunk and scalp. Psoriasis is a common, long-term (chronic) disease with no cure. It can be painful, interfere with sleep and make it hard to concentrate.

Mar 21, 2025 · Jock itch is a fungal skin infection that causes an itchy rash in warm, moist areas of the body. The rash often affects the groin and inner thighs and may be shaped like a ring. The condition is also called tinea cruris. Jock itch gets its name because it's common in athletes. It's also common in people who sweat a lot.

Applying to the rash a prescription-strength corticosteroid cream, gel or ointment. Applying to the rash a cream or ointment with a calcineurin inhibitor. This is a medicine that affects the immune system. You'll need a prescription from your doctor for it. Exposing the rash to controlled amounts of natural or artificial light.

Sep 18, 2024 · Neurodermatitis is a skin condition that starts with an itchy patch of skin. Scratching makes it itch more. With more scratching, the skin becomes thick and leathery. You may develop several itchy spots, typically on the neck, wrists, forearms, legs or groin area.

May 15, 2024 · Atopic dermatitis can cause a very itchy rash. Atopic dermatitis most often occurs where the skin flexes — inside the elbows, behind the knees and in front of the neck. Atopic dermatitis (eczema) is a condition that causes dry, itchy and inflamed skin.