Let's face it: everyone loves a good scratch. People have even taken to Reddit to ask why it feels so good to have an itch scratched by someone else. One theory is that scratching quiets nerve cells, which brings skin relief. But feeling itchy all the time can cause concern. Even though scratching is often satisfying, it can be bad for you. Scratching an itch often makes you feel itchier all over, and it can make you itch elsewhere on your body. If you can't stop scratching your body, you're probably asking yourself, "Why am I so itchy all the freaking time?"
Instead of scratching nonstop, it's important to find the root cause of your itchiness. It could be a number of things — there's even an International Forum for the Study of Itch for doctors and researchers who want to learn more about what makes us itchy. Even reading about itchiness can make you feel the urge to scratch. With the change in season, it's important to consider the effect this has on your skin. Because of the drop in temperature, you may be itching more than usual. Even the air indoors may be drier than it is in summer. If you're only itchy now and then, you likely won't be in any serious trouble if you scratch, but scratching regularly can lead to skin wounds or infection. Here are some things to keep in mind as you get ready for the chilly days ahead.
You Might Have Dry, Flaky Skin
You should be moisturizing your skin daily after showering or exfoliating to keep it healthy, but moisturizing can also help prevent the dreaded itch. If your skin is dry enough that you're constantly itching, WebMD says to skip the lotion and head straight for Vaseline or a similar product. Exfoliating your skin can help it flake less, which will have you scratching less frequently.
Your Itch May Be Due To Your Shower Length
As we mentioned, cold weather can bring that awful winter itch. Even if you live in warm weather, you'll still face some discomfort as you deal with cold fronts. Avoid long, hot showers, as they can make your skin even drier, and apply a moisturizer while your skin is still wet.
Your Clothing Could Be Causing Itchiness
Your itchiness could be caused by what you're wearing as you transition to layering and bring out your winter wardrobe. Rayon, blended cotton or corduroy are all common irritants that could be causing an allergic reaction, which could cause you to itch. Silk, linen, flannel and polyester are all considered safer fabrics, and you can also go for natural clothing without any additives or dyes.
Your Winter Diet Could Be Making You Scratch
Did you know food intolerance can cause itchy skin? It's the season to eat delicious, hot foods, but wheat, milk, eggs, and soy can all make you itch if you have a sensitivity to these foods. If you can't stop scratching, it may be a good idea to examine your diet and see if there's anything you need to eliminate.
Bugs Don't Go Away In The Winter
Bedbugs are already everyone's worst nightmare because of the financial and emotional toll they bring, but they also cause painful, itchy welts. It's a common myth that bedbugs can't survive winter, but the buggers can make it through cold seasons. Ants are also present during winter and could be making you itch due to bites.
Examine Your Exercise Schedule
You may take advantage of the cooler temperatures by spending time outside or inside at the gym, but dry weather and low humidity can make your skin itch as you exercise. If you haven't exercised in a while, you may also experience a painful itch as your blood vessels expand.
Talk To A Doctor If The Itching Doesn't Stop
If you can't solve your itching with these tips, it might be time to see a doctor. Itching can be a sign of a more serious problem, like internal diseases, nerve disorders, or a serious skin condition. While the weather generally is a prime culprit, your itching could be caused by something else. If the itch doesn't let up when temperatures warm up, call a professional and get medical advice.
