Whether caused by an allergic reaction, eczema, or coming into contact with an irritant such as poison ivy, rashes often cause skin inflammation and are a source of uncomfortable, persistent itching.
While over-the-counter remedies such as hydrocortisone cream and calamine lotion can be effective, save yourself a trip to the drugstore by trying one of these seven effective treatments using items you already have around the house.
1. Oatmeal
For relief from allergic skin rashes, or those caused by eczema and psoriasis, oatmeal is a very effective remedy. Due to its inflammation-reducing compounds, oatmeal can help to normalize the skin’s pH levels, providing relief of itchy, dry skin.
To obtain its benefits, Reader’s Digest recommends taking an oatmeal bath by “add[ing] one to two cups of colloidal oatmeal to slightly warm water and soak for half an hour.” They warm against using hot water, however, as it can worsen the itchiness.
