Chronic itch?
No longer.

Itchy skin that is severe or lasts more than several weeks can affect the quality of your life. This type of itch is called chronic itch, or pruritus. The constant discomfort can impact your focus and sleep, and prolonged itching and scratching can cause further skin damage, infection and scarring.

Chronic itch can last for a very long time and can be extremely intense. The more you scratch, the worse the itch becomes, and breaking this itch-scratch cycle can be incredibly difficult. Here are some signs that you may be suffering from chronic itch:

• Lasts more than two weeks and doesn't improve with self-care measures
• Is severe and often distracts you from your daily routines or interrupts your sleep
• Comes on suddenly and can't be easily explained
• Affects specific areas, or your whole body

Chronic itch can affect any area of the skin, including small areas like the hands or scalp, large areas like the back or legs, or across the entire body.

The itching may not cause any visible skin changes, or it may be accompanied by any of the following:

• Inflammation Redness
• Redness or discoloration
• Bumps, spots, or blisters
• Dry, cracked skin
• Leathery or scaly patches

Furthermore, rubbing and scratching the affected areas can make things even worse, causing further skin damage, infection and scarring.

There are a variety of different causes for persistent itching and discomfort. Some of the main causes of chronic itch include:

• Skin conditions: Examples include dry skin (xerosis), eczema (dermatitis), and psoriasis
• Internal disease: Itching all over the body may be a symptom of an underlying disease, such as diabetes, liver disease, kidney disease, anemia, and thyroid problems.
• Nerve disorders: Examples include multiple sclerosis, pinched nerves, and shingles.
• Allergies and irritation: Allergic reactions to substances such as poison ivy or certain medications can cause itchy skin, as well as irritation and rashes triggered by certain fabrics, cosmetics and chemicals.

The best way to prevent chronic itch is to protect and take care of your skin. Here are some of the best tips recommended by dermatologists:

• Use creams and lotions that moisturize, prevent dryness and help skin heal, such as dermatologist-developed Dermeleve Cream
• Avoid topical steroids, which should not be used regularly and can cause further skin damage
• Take baths or showers using warm - not hot - water
• Use mild, frangrance-free bath soap that won’t irritate the skin
• Avoid certain fabrics such as wool and synthetics that can cause itching
• Use a humidifier in your home to reduce dryness
• Consult your dermatologist if symptoms do not improve