Allergic Contact Dermatitis
If your skin came in contact with an allergen, it might turn itchy, inflamed, and irritated. These allergic responses are termed as allergic contact dermatitis. Such irritants may include certain plants, metals, soaps, cosmetics, and fragrances.
Xerosis
Xerosis is the medical term used to describe unusually dry and scaly skin, and this condition is another common cause of itchy legs. While this condition does not cause any rashes, if you continue to scratch the affected area, it may cause bumps, limes, and other physical symptoms. Xerosis is more common in the older lot as the skin tends to get drier with age.
Diabetes
An underlying medical condition like diabetes could also trigger itching in your lower legs. High blood sugar levels are known to cause itchy skin. Itchiness can also be triggered by other complications of diabetes like poor blood circulation, nerve damage, or kidney disease. Itchy skin could also be a symptom of other medical conditions like hepatitis, lymphomas, hypothyroidism, and hyperthyroidism.
Insect Bites
Bites from insects like fleas, chiggers, mosquitoes, and mites can also cause itching in the lower legs as well as other parts of your body that may be exposed to the insects.
Gravitational Eczema (Stasis)
This is especially common in individuals suffering from varicose veins or deep vein thrombosis. Stasis or gravitational eczema is known to cause itchy, swollen, red/purplish patches on the lower legs of the affected people.
Poor Hygiene
If you don’t follow basic hygiene or don’t bathe daily, the build-up of dirt, sweat, and dead cells on your legs can cause irritation and itching. Heat, dry air, or contact of the skin with clothing can aggravate these symptoms. Conditions like atopic dermatitis, hives, and dehydration can also cause itching in the lower legs. Itchiness is not only uncomfortable, but it also has the potential to hamper your self-confidence. There are many over-the-counter formulations available to help soothe the itchiness that may be prescribed by your physician. However, if you are looking for a quick fix to your problem with some ingredients available right at home, we are here to help. Listed below are some natural remedies that can help soothe your itchy lower legs.
Home Remedies To Treat Itchy Legs
Natural Ways To Treat Itchy Legs
1. Coconut Oil
1 tablespoon of virgin coconut oil You can do this twice daily. The anti-inflammatory properties of coconut oil can help soothe the itchiness and inflammation in your lower legs (1). The moisturizing properties of the oil can help address underlying issues like xerosis that could be causing the itchiness (2).
2. Moisturizer
Moisturizing can also help a great deal in relieving itchy lower legs, especially if dry skin or xerosis is the root cause of the problem (3). You can use either over-the-counter moisturizers like petroleum jelly or natural alternatives like coconut oil and olive oil. A thick cream with mineral oil is also a great option to moisturize the skin.
3. Aloe Vera Gel
1-2 tablespoons of aloe vera gel You can do this 1-2 times daily for best results. The moisturizing and anti-inflammatory effects of aloe vera extracts are well-known (4). These properties can be quite beneficial in soothing the itching in the lower legs.
4. Tea Tree Oil
3-4 drops of tea tree oil 1 tablespoon of coconut oil
You can do this twice daily, once right before bedtime. Tea tree oil is an excellent remedy for treating multiple skin disorders. Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial nature can be effective in treating the itchiness in your lower legs (5). While these remedies work their magic in alleviating the itching, here are some tips that may help prevent recurrence of the condition.
How To Prevent Itchy Legs
Wear comfortable clothing made of natural fibers like silk or cotton to bed. Keep your room temperature cool as excessive heat can aggravate itchiness. Avoid consuming caffeine and/or alcohol right before you go to bed as they can cause your body temperature to increase. Stop use of cosmetics, perfumes, or any other products that have resulted in an allergy earlier. Don’t scratch your legs despite the urge to do so. Follow good personal hygiene habits like showering daily. Wear protective clothing when you go hiking or into the woods. Moisturize your body daily.
In the following cases, you will have to seek medical intervention immediately.
When To See A Doctor
See a doctor immediately if:
The itching does not show signs of improvement even after two weeks. The itching begins to interrupt your sleep. You observe other symptoms such as weight loss, weakness, a rash, or fever. The itching begins to result in bleeding in some parts of your legs.
Why are my legs so itchy but with no rash? Check out the infographic to learn how you can prepare and take an oatmeal bath and how you can make your own homemade colloidal oatmeal. Dry skin may cause itchiness without presenting a rash. Weather conditions, dehydration, or a lack of moisturization may lead to itchy and dry skin.
