My skin itches after a shower
SKIN itch after showering is a fairly common complaint. It is called ‘Aquagenic Pruritus’ or ‘water-induced itching’.<br>Typical symptoms start after contact with water at any temperature. The itch starts within five to 10 minutes and lasts for an hour or less. The itch may be severe, yet t
Dear Doctor,
For six years now, my skin itches after showering. I am tired of it. What can I do?
Nelson
Dear Nelson,
SKIN itch after showering is a fairly common complaint. It is called ‘Aquagenic Pruritus’ or ‘water-induced itching’.
Typical symptoms start after contact with water at any temperature. The itch starts within five to 10 minutes and lasts for an hour or less. The itch may be severe, yet there is no rash or visible skin change. The itching may start in early teens and last for years.
Your doctor needs to rule out a few possible causes. We do not have a cure, but tips on how to deal with the problem may include:
After a shower, turn water to as hot as possible for a few minutes.
Use a heating pad on parts that itch.
Some baking soda in your bath water may help.
Sweating (sports) before shower may decrease itching.
Your doctor may prescribe for you drugs like anti-histamines or combinations of anti-histamines. Consult a dermatologist (skin specialist) for more help.
For six years now, my skin itches after showering. I am tired of it. What can I do?
Nelson
Dear Nelson,
SKIN itch after showering is a fairly common complaint. It is called ‘Aquagenic Pruritus’ or ‘water-induced itching’.
Typical symptoms start after contact with water at any temperature. The itch starts within five to 10 minutes and lasts for an hour or less. The itch may be severe, yet there is no rash or visible skin change. The itching may start in early teens and last for years.
Your doctor needs to rule out a few possible causes. We do not have a cure, but tips on how to deal with the problem may include:
After a shower, turn water to as hot as possible for a few minutes.
Use a heating pad on parts that itch.
Some baking soda in your bath water may help.
Sweating (sports) before shower may decrease itching.
Your doctor may prescribe for you drugs like anti-histamines or combinations of anti-histamines. Consult a dermatologist (skin specialist) for more help.