How Can I Stop Itching in the Sun?
Sun-related itching can be effectively managed with several home remedies and over-the-counter treatments. The key is to soothe the irritated skin and prevent further sun exposure.
- Cool Compresses: Apply a cool, damp compress to the affected area for immediate relief. The coolness soothes inflamed skin and reduces itching. This is a simple, readily available method recommended by multiple sources like OSF HealthCare (https://www.osfhealthcare.org/blog/heat-rash-sun-rash-whats-the-difference/).
- Cool Baths: Soaking in a cool bath offers a similar soothing effect to cool compresses, covering a larger area.
- Moisturize: Keeping your skin hydrated is crucial. Moisturizers help to repair the skin barrier and reduce dryness, which often exacerbates itching.
Over-the-Counter Treatments
- Calamine Lotion: This is a readily available topical treatment that effectively relieves itching.
- Hydrocortisone Cream (1% or less): A nonprescription anti-itch cream containing hydrocortisone can help reduce inflammation and itching. This is suggested by Mayo Clinic (https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/polymorphous-light-eruption/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20355872).
- Other Anti-itch Creams: Various over-the-counter anti-itch creams are available, offering relief from the discomfort.
Preventing Further Irritation
- Avoid Scratching: Resist the urge to scratch, as this can worsen the irritation and increase the risk of infection.
- Sun Protection: Limit sun exposure, especially during peak hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) when the sun's rays are strongest. The Mayo Clinic recommends this preventative measure (https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sun-allergy/symptoms-causes/syc-20378077).
More Severe Cases
For persistent or severe itching, consult a doctor. They may recommend stronger treatments such as oral antihistamines (loratadine, fexofenadine, cetirizine), corticosteroids (prednisone), or other medications. Cleveland Clinic lists these options as potential treatments (https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17681-sun-allergy).
