Itchy skin is common and usually isn’t the sign of anything serious, clearing up within a few weeks.
It’s often caused by dry, cracked or irritated skin, but some simple remedies can help stop you from itching your skin and causing damage.
Patting or tapping the skin instead of scratching it, using unperformed moisturises and having cool, lukewarm baths or showers are recommended.
But if your itchy skin is accompanied by a rash or swelling it could be a symptom of a particular health condition, according to the NHS.
It advises itchy skin can occur as a result of a skin reaction to heat or something you’re allergenic to, for example hives and prickly heat.
Longer-lasting skin conditions, such as dandruff, eczema and psoriasis can also cause itchy skin.
Fungal skin infections, like thrush, ringworm, athlete’s foot have also been known to trigger irritation.
Finally, itchy skin can be a sign of parasites or insects living on the skin, such as scabies, head lice and pubic lice.
The health body adds: “Many women also have itchy skin during pregnancy or after the menopause.
“This is caused by hormonal changes and should get better over time.
“In rare cases, itchy skin can be a sign of a more serious condition, such as thyroid, liver or kidney problems.”
But if it’s just dry skin causing your itchy skin, you should be able to manage this yourself. Pupa advises you make changes to your washing routine.
It says: “If you take a shower more than once a day, try and cut down on these.
“If you take long baths, try and spend less time in the bath.
“Use cool or lukewarm water to wash, rather than hot water.
“Avoid soap, perfumed products and bubble bath. Instead, go for mild, alcohol-free products.
“Pat yourself dry with a towel, rather than vigorously drying.”
Other steps to reduce the dryness of your skin it recommends include moisturising your skin frequently.
Avoid clothes with fibres that will rub against your skin – the main culprits are wool and synthetics.
Keep your indoor environment cool to relieve the itchy, but not too cold.
Also stay hydrated – most people need to drink around eight to ten litres of fluid per day.
Eczema sufferers could help treat the itchy skin condition with this popular exercise.