A summer without skin tantrums? Impossible to imagine.
One particular one, in fact, is where no lotion seems enough, and all you want to do is scratch till kingdom come. Heat, humidity, sweat, grime—it's like the perfect recipe for irritation. Those tiny bumps, random rashes, and the relentless itch that follows you everywhere? Ugh, we’ve all been there.
So, how do you treat summer itching without slathering on chemicals or running off to the chemist every other day? Here’s a better plan. Slide into your calm era with nature’s little secrets—each summer, an itchy skin home remedy is waiting in your kitchen or backyard.
These 13 natural hacks are not only simple but feel like a spa moment for your skin. Let’s ditch the discomfort and bring in that sweet relief—cool, calm, and totally itch-free. Ready for the glow-up your summer skin deserves? Let’s begin.
Before jumping into the cures, first know why your skin itches in the beginning. Certain reasons are related to summer, and these are:
Heat Rash (Prickly Heat) | Caused by blocked sweat glands, heat rash results in tiny red bumps and itching, especially in areas like the neck, back, chest, and underarms. |
Dry Skin (Xerosis) | Summer heat and overexposure to sun or chlorinated water in pools can remove the natural oils in the skin, leading to dryness and itchiness. |
Sunburn | Excessive sun exposure can cause inflammation, redness, peeling, and itching. |
Sweat and Friction | Sweat mixes with bacteria and dirt on your skin, causing irritation and itchiness, particularly in skin folds and creases. |
Allergies | Pollen, insect bites, and exposure to certain plants can cause allergic reactions, hives, and itchiness. |
Infections | Fungal infections, such as athlete’s foot or ringworm, are more common in warm, moist environments, and they can cause persistent itching. |
Also Read: 12 Best Remedies for Sun Tan Removal That’ll Have You Saying ‘Tan You Later!’
Here are the best remedies for itchy skin in summer:
Aloe vera's natural coolness provides immediate relief from the burning sensation of itchy summer skin. It contains anti-inflammatory properties which alleviate redness and irritation caused by sun exposure or heat rashes. Additionally, its deep moisturising capabilities combat dryness, a common trigger for itching during warmer months.
To use this summer itchy skin home remedy:
Colloidal oatmeal is an effective home remedy for itchy skin. Its fine particles create a protective barrier on the skin, locking in essential moisture and preventing further dryness. The anti-inflammatory properties of oatmeal also work to reduce redness and quell the urge to scratch.
To use this summer itchy skin home remedy:
Virgin coconut oil is a powerhouse of hydration, making it excellent for combating the dryness that aggravates summer itching. Its rich fatty acid content helps to replenish the skin's natural barrier, preventing moisture loss. Furthermore, coconut oil possesses mild antimicrobial properties that can help protect irritated skin from secondary infections.
To use this summer itchy skin home remedy:
The immediate cooling sensation of a cold compress can provide swift relief from the intense urge to scratch itchy summer skin. Applying cold helps to constrict blood vessels in the affected area, which in turn reduces inflammation and swelling. This simple remedy can temporarily numb the nerve endings, lessening the feeling of itchiness.
To use this summer itchy skin home remedy:
Cucumbers have natural cooling effects and anti-inflammatory properties that help in calming red, irritated skin caused by the heat of the summer. Due to their high water content, cucumbers also help hydrate the skin, which is most important for itching caused by dryness. The application of cucumbers gives a cool, soothing feeling to hot, itching areas.
To use this summer itchy skin home remedy:
Also Read: 10 Mind-Blowing Benefits of Cocoa Powder for Skin That Will Make You Rethink Skincare!
The antibacterial and antifungal natures of apple cider vinegar make it useful against some forms of summer skin itching that are related to mild infection. It's also useful to correct the normal pH balance of the skin that's lost during sweating and in the heat. Still, its use should be guarded against for sensitive or damaged skin.
To use this summer itchy skin home remedy:
Baking soda benefits for skin are known for their ability to help neutralise ph levels on the skin, which can provide relief from itching. Its gentle abrasive nature can also help to remove mild irritants from the skin's surface. However, it's important to use it in moderation, as it can be drying for some skin types.
To use this summer itchy skin home remedy:
Neem leaves have long been recognised in traditional medicine for their potent antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties, making them a valuable remedy for summer skin itching. They can help to combat infections that might be causing irritation and reduce the swelling and redness associated with itchy skin conditions.
To use this summer itchy skin home remedy:
Also Read: Learn About The Benefits of Neem and Turmeric for Better Health and Radiant Skin!
Chamomile tea is famous for its calming and soothing properties, which also apply to irritated skin that's prevalent in the summer. Its anti-inflammatory nature can help ease the redness and discomfort of itching. A chamomile compress provides a natural and gentle means of relief.
To use this summer itchy skin home remedy:
Mint leaves provide a refreshing and distinct cooling sensation upon application to the skin, which can be very effective in temporarily relieving the discomfort of summer itching. The natural compounds in mint also possess mild anti-inflammatory properties that can help to calm irritated skin.
To use this summer itchy skin home remedy:
Ayurvedic Remedies for Summer Skin Itching
Sandalwood is revered in Ayurveda for its cooling and healing properties, making it an excellent remedy for itchy summer skin. When mixed with rosewater, it creates a soothing paste that can calm inflammation and provide relief from irritation.
To use this summer itchy skin home remedy:
Multani Mitti, or Fuller's Earth, is known for its cooling and absorbent properties, which can help to relieve itching and inflammation of the skin during the summer. It also helps to draw out impurities and excess oil, which can contribute to skin irritation. Also, it makes a great DIY face pack for sun tan removal!
To use this summer itchy skin home remedy:
Triphala is an Ayurvedic formulation of three fruits known for their balancing and detoxifying properties. A wash made with Triphala powder soaked in water overnight can help soothe and cleanse itchy summer skin, potentially reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
To use this summer itchy skin home remedy:
Several remedies can help stop itching immediately, depending on the cause. Scientifically, itching (pruritus) occurs when certain chemicals, like histamine, are released in the skin. These chemicals irritate nerve endings, sending signals to the brain that trigger the urge to scratch.
To stop itching quickly, antihistamines, cold compresses, or hydrocortisone creams are commonly used.
1. Cold Compress: Applying something cold (like an ice pack or cold, wet cloth) slows nerve signals and reduces inflammation. This provides immediate relief by numbing the skin and blocking the itch sensation.
2. Calamine Lotion: Calamine contains zinc oxide, which soothes the skin, reduces redness, and has mild antihistamine-like effects.
3. Hydrocortisone Cream: A low-dose steroid that reduces inflammation and allergic reactions quickly.
4. Aloe Vera Gel: It cools and hydrates the skin, especially effective for sunburn or dry skin-related itching.
5. Antihistamine Tablets (like cetirizine): Block histamine chemicals, especially effective for allergy-induced itching.
As a dietitian, I recommend staying well-hydrated in summer to reduce skin dryness and itchiness. Include water-rich foods like watermelon, cucumber, and oranges to naturally hydrate from within. Omega-3-rich foods like flaxseeds and walnuts help reduce inflammation and soothe itchy skin.
Avoid processed, salty, and spicy foods as they can dehydrate the body and worsen irritation. Add antioxidant-rich fruits like berries and papaya to fight skin inflammation. Probiotic foods like yoghurt can also support skin health by improving gut balance. Lastly, drink coconut water daily—it’s cooling and packed with electrolytes, helping your skin stay itch-free and fresh all summer.
Dt. Akshata Gandevikar
Itchy skin doesn’t need to ruin your summer vibes. These remedies are simple, safe, and oh-so-soothing. Next time someone asks, “How do you treat summer itching?”—you’ll have 13 tried-and-tested answers. Stay cool, stay calm, and let your skin breathe easily. Because summers are for sunshine, not scratching.
1. What can I drink to stop itching?
Drink coconut water, aloe vera juice, or chamomile tea to soothe itchy skin. These drinks hydrate the body, reduce inflammation, and calm allergic reactions. Adding turmeric milk or cucumber-infused water can also help due to their anti-inflammatory and skin-healing properties.
2. Why is my body itching in summer?
Summer itching is often caused by sweat, heat, and humidity, which clog pores and lead to irritation or rashes. Dry skin from sun exposure, allergic reactions to pollen or fabrics, and dehydration can also contribute. Proper hygiene, hydration, and wearing breathable clothing can help reduce this issue.
3. Can I use ice to stop summer itching?
Yes, you can apply ice to stop itching caused by summer skin problems. Ice instantly reduces itching by numbing nerve endings and calming inflammation. Take a few ice cubes, wrap them in a clean cloth and apply them around the affected area for 10-15 minutes. Avoid direct contact with ice to prevent frostbite or further irritation.
4. What should I avoid to prevent summer itching?
Avoid hot showers, synthetic clothes, excessive sun exposure, and harsh soaps. These dry out or irritate the skin. Also, avoid sugary, fried, and processed foods that can trigger inflammation or allergies. Choose gentle cleansers and wear cotton or breathable fabrics.
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