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Itchy Facial Skin
Itchy facial skin, also called pruritus, may cause irritation and tingling of the skin 12. Chronic skin itching may also cause your face to become inflamed, which can be embarrassing. Determining the underlying cause of itchy facial skin will assist in healing this skin issue 2. Topical treatments can also ease the discomfort.
Causes
Itchy skin that is accompanied by a rash is usually caused by dry skin, according to MayoClinic.com 12. Weather changes, humidity changes and using air conditioning or heating systems can cause itchy facial skin 2. Bathing too frequently or using very hot water while bathing can also cause this skin issue.
Treatments
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Nonprescription oral antihistamines and topical corticosteroid creams can be used to ease facial skin inflammation. Applying warm clothes to the face after applying corticosteroid creams can help the skin soak up the medicine. Taking a cool oatmeal bath can also assist in soothing itchy facial skin 2.
Another option for itchy facial skin is light therapy 2. Your dermatologist will use ultraviolet light on the face to ease itchy skin 2. Some insurance companies don’t cover these procedures. Check out coverage ahead of time to determine affordability.
- Nonprescription oral antihistamines and topical corticosteroid creams can be used to ease facial skin inflammation.
Considerations
Select facial products that don’t contain dyes or perfumes, recommends MayoClinic.com. After washing the skin with a gentle cleanser, apply a moisturizer that doesn’t contain fragrance. Getting rid of dryness can reduce inflammation in the skin. Wash towels and bedding with a mild, unscented detergent. Using an extra-rinse cycle when washing clothes may also help.
- Select facial products that don’t contain dyes or perfumes, recommends MayoClinic.com.
- After washing the skin with a gentle cleanser, apply a moisturizer that doesn’t contain fragrance.
Misconceptions
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Some people think that itching the skin doesn’t cause long-term harm. Constant itching, however, can increase inflammation and risk for scarring. Prolonged itching may also cause neurodermatitis, according to MayoClinic.com. This is a condition that causes the skin’s texture to become leathery after frequent scratching. The skin is also at higher risk for bacteria infection if scratched often.
- Some people think that itching the skin doesn’t cause long-term harm.
Warnings
Talk with your doctor about itchy facial skin 2. Although usually due to dryness, there may be an underlying cause for the itchiness. For example, skin conditions such as psoriasis or hives may cause facial skin issues. Internal diseases, such as iron deficiency anemia, thyroid problems and cancer can also cause itchy skin 2.
Facial itching can also be a drug reaction to antibiotics, pain medications or antifungal drugs, according to MayoClinic.com. Your doctor can rule out underlying causes and assist in treating itchy facial skin 2.
Related Articles
References
- MayoClinic.com: Itchy Skin, Pruritus
- MedlinePlus: Itchy Skin
- Nemeth V, Evans J. Eczema. [Updated 2019 Jun 4]. In: StatPearls. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2020 Jan-.
- Oaklander AL. Neuropathic itch. Semin Cutan Med Surg. 2011;30(2):87-92. doi:10.1016/j.sder.2011.04.006
- Rathi VM, Murthy SI. Allergic conjunctivitis. Community Eye Health. 2017;30(99):S7-S10.
- Shirinde J, Wichmann J, Voyi K. Allergic rhinitis, rhinoconjunctivitis and hayfever symptoms among children are associated with frequency of truck traffic near residences: a cross sectional study. Environ Health. 2015;14:84. doi:10.1186/s12940-015-0072-1
- Shulman ST. An Itchy Throat and Other Food Allergy Symptoms. Pediatric Annals. Published October 1, 2006.
- Kawauchi H, Yanai K, Wang DY, Itahashi K, Okubo K. Antihistamines for Allergic Rhinitis Treatment from the Viewpoint of Nonsedative Properties. Int J Mol Sci. 2019;20(1). doi:10.3390/ijms20010213
- Panthagani AP, Tidman MJ. Diagnosis directs treatment in fungal infections of the skin. Practitioner. 2015;259(1786):25-9, 3.
- Nemeth V, Evans J. Eczema. [Updated 2019 Jun 4]. In: StatPearls. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2020 Jan-.
- Nowak DA, Yeung J. Diagnosis and treatment of pruritus. Can Fam Physician. 2017;63(12):918-924.
- Papaloukas O, Giannouli G, Papaevangelou V. Successes and challenges in varicella vaccine. Ther Adv Vaccines. 2014;2(2):39-55. doi:10.1177/2051013613515621
- "The Itchy Eye: Diagnosis, Management of Ocular Pruritis". Ophthalmic Pearls. EyeNet Magazine. American Academy of Ophthalmology. 17 Jan 16.
- "Allergic Conjunctivitis." Familydoctor.org Jan 06. American Academy of Family Physicians. 02 Apr 07.
- "Allergies and Hay Fever." U.S Food and Drug Administration Aug 2005. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. 02 Apr 2007.
- "Tips to Remember: Allergic Skin Conditions." American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology 2010. 28 April 10.
- "What's An Asthma Flare-Up?" KidsHealth.org Nov 09. Nemours Foundation. 29 Mar 10.
Writer Bio
Nicki Howell started her professional writing career in 2002, specializing in areas such as health, fitness and personal finance. She has been published at health care websites, such as HealthTree, and is a ghostwriter for a variety of small health care organizations. She earned a Bachelor of Science in business administration from Portland State University.