These Anti-Itch Creams Will Save You From Dry, Itchy Skin *All* Summer Long

  • <p>Whether you have itchy, irritated skin from an allergic reaction, skin sensitivity, or pesky bug bite, one thing is for sure: You want relief ASAP. You may try quelling the discomfort with an ice pack, but when that doesn't cut it, you may need to turn to an anti-itch cream for help.</p><p class="body-text">Before running to your local pharmacy, you should get to know what may be behind your skin itch because you may need a different treatment depending on the cause. You probably know that summertime itchy skin is commonly due to mosquito bites, or potentially from poison ivy or other rashes after spending extended time outdoors. </p><p class="body-text">Itchy skin may also be caused by skin barrier disruption, skin dryness, a genetic predisposition, or inflammatory conditions like eczema, according to <a href="http://www.zeichnerdermatology.com" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Joshua Zeichner, MD" class="link ">Joshua Zeichner, MD</a>, the director of cosmetic and clinical research and an associate professor of dermatology at the Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. “Collectively, they lead to an increase in inflammatory signals in the skin that drive the itch response,” he explains. <br></p><p>While anti-itch creams can be a temporary lifesaver, if you’re not seeing improvements within two weeks, Dr. Zeichner recommends visiting a dermatologist. </p><p class="body-text">Here are 12 dermatologist-approved anti-itch creams. Because let’s be honest, itchy skin is a nightmare. </p>
    1/13

    These Anti-Itch Creams Will Save You From Dry, Itchy Skin *All* Summer Long

    Whether you have itchy, irritated skin from an allergic reaction, skin sensitivity, or pesky bug bite, one thing is for sure: You want relief ASAP. You may try quelling the discomfort with an ice pack, but when that doesn't cut it, you may need to turn to an anti-itch cream for help.

    Before running to your local pharmacy, you should get to know what may be behind your skin itch because you may need a different treatment depending on the cause. You probably know that summertime itchy skin is commonly due to mosquito bites, or potentially from poison ivy or other rashes after spending extended time outdoors.

    Itchy skin may also be caused by skin barrier disruption, skin dryness, a genetic predisposition, or inflammatory conditions like eczema, according to Joshua Zeichner, MD, the director of cosmetic and clinical research and an associate professor of dermatology at the Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. “Collectively, they lead to an increase in inflammatory signals in the skin that drive the itch response,” he explains.

    While anti-itch creams can be a temporary lifesaver, if you’re not seeing improvements within two weeks, Dr. Zeichner recommends visiting a dermatologist.

    Here are 12 dermatologist-approved anti-itch creams. Because let’s be honest, itchy skin is a nightmare.

    Christine Giordano
  • <p><strong>Cortizone 10</strong></p><p>amazon.com</p><p><strong>$8.00</strong></p><p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001KY7LAM?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C2139.g.40774718%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>This is a good anti-itch cream to keep on hand in your medicine cabinet. “For mosquito bites or mild cases of poison ivy, the product I recommend most often is hydrocortisone formulated as a single active ingredient, which can be found in this ointment,” says Dr. Katta.</p>
    2/13

    1) Maximum Strength Ointment

    Cortizone 10

    amazon.com

    $8.00

    Shop Now

    This is a good anti-itch cream to keep on hand in your medicine cabinet. “For mosquito bites or mild cases of poison ivy, the product I recommend most often is hydrocortisone formulated as a single active ingredient, which can be found in this ointment,” says Dr. Katta.

    amazon.com
  • <p><strong>CeraVe</strong></p><p>amazon.com</p><p><strong>$19.87</strong></p><p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B017610BFO?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C2139.g.40774718%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>This gentle cream is a good option for other itchy conditions, such as dry skin, sunburn, and irritation due to insect bites, according to Dr. Katta.</p>
    3/13

    2) Moisturizing Cream for Itch Relief

    CeraVe

    amazon.com

    $19.87

    Shop Now

    This gentle cream is a good option for other itchy conditions, such as dry skin, sunburn, and irritation due to insect bites, according to Dr. Katta.

    amazon.com
  • <p><strong>Aveeno</strong></p><p>amazon.com</p><p><strong>$19.68</strong></p><p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00CWY8V9O?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C2139.g.40774718%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Aveeno anti-itch cream is a top pick to stymie scratchiness. Dr. Katta recommends this cream, which contains soothing colloidal oatmeal, for those with dry skin in need of a strong moisturizer.</p>
    4/13

    3) Eczema Therapy Daily Moisturizing Cream

    Aveeno

    amazon.com

    $19.68

    Shop Now

    Aveeno anti-itch cream is a top pick to stymie scratchiness. Dr. Katta recommends this cream, which contains soothing colloidal oatmeal, for those with dry skin in need of a strong moisturizer.

    amazon.com
  • <p><strong>Campho-Phenique</strong></p><p>amazon.com</p><p><strong>$14.99</strong></p><p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000U9V4YC?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C2139.g.40774718%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>This medicated gel is a good option to instantly relieve itching from bug bites and stings, irritated skin, and even minor burns. The antiseptic properties also help kill germs and prevent infection.</p>
    5/13

    4) Pain & Itch Relief Antiseptic Gel

    Campho-Phenique

    amazon.com

    $14.99

    Shop Now

    This medicated gel is a good option to instantly relieve itching from bug bites and stings, irritated skin, and even minor burns. The antiseptic properties also help kill germs and prevent infection.

    amazon.com
  • <p><strong>Benadryl</strong></p><p>amazon.com</p><p><strong>$23.48</strong></p><p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01HDOGTLO?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C2139.g.40774718%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>This histamine-blocking cream can bring soothing relief to itching caused by outdoor aggravators, like bug bites and poison ivy.</p>
    6/13

    5) Itch Stopping Cream Extra Strength

    Benadryl

    amazon.com

    $23.48

    Shop Now

    This histamine-blocking cream can bring soothing relief to itching caused by outdoor aggravators, like bug bites and poison ivy.

    amazon.com
  • <p><strong>Gold Bond</strong></p><p>amazon.com</p><p><strong>$36.00</strong></p><p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004X8KMU8?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C2139.g.40774718%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Gold Bond is another good option for outdoor-related itching, and with menthol as its active ingredient, you’ll quickly notice a cooling sensation of relief upon application.</p>
    7/13

    6) Medicated Anti-Itch Lotion

    Gold Bond

    amazon.com

    $36.00

    Shop Now

    Gold Bond is another good option for outdoor-related itching, and with menthol as its active ingredient, you’ll quickly notice a cooling sensation of relief upon application.

    amazon.com
  • <p><strong>Aveeno</strong></p><p>amazon.com</p><p><strong>$9.16</strong></p><p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B012X33HMY?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C2139.g.40774718%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Formulated with 1% hydrocortisone, this cream is effective for stopping any itch. You'll also get the added bonus ingredient of triple oat complex to relieve the dryness and irritation that can come with scratchy skin.</p>
    8/13

    7) 1% Hydrocortisone Anti-Itch Relief Cream

    Aveeno

    amazon.com

    $9.16

    Shop Now

    Formulated with 1% hydrocortisone, this cream is effective for stopping any itch. You'll also get the added bonus ingredient of triple oat complex to relieve the dryness and irritation that can come with scratchy skin.

    amazon.com
  • <p><strong>Curél </strong></p><p>amazon.com</p><p><strong>$9.77</strong></p><p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0046OFO3Y?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C2139.g.40774718%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>If your main issue is dryness, a moisturizing lotion may be all you need. This one, approved by the National Eczema Association, aims to restore the skin’s barrier to prevent further irritation and can also provide relief from eczema.</p>
    9/13

    8) Itch Defense Calming Body Lotion

    Curél

    amazon.com

    $9.77

    Shop Now

    If your main issue is dryness, a moisturizing lotion may be all you need. This one, approved by the National Eczema Association, aims to restore the skin’s barrier to prevent further irritation and can also provide relief from eczema.

    amazon.com
  • <p><strong>Eucerin</strong></p><p>amazon.com</p><p><strong>$9.19</strong></p><p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000YGDRIW?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C2139.g.40774718%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>This oatmeal-enriched cream provides all-day relief from dry, itchy skin. It goes on so silky smooth and isn't sticky, so you may want to make this your daily body moisturizer all year.</p>
    10/13

    9) Skin Calming Cream

    Eucerin

    amazon.com

    $9.19

    Shop Now

    This oatmeal-enriched cream provides all-day relief from dry, itchy skin. It goes on so silky smooth and isn't sticky, so you may want to make this your daily body moisturizer all year.

    amazon.com
  • <p><strong>Aveeno</strong></p><p>amazon.com</p><p><strong>$9.57</strong></p><p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000GCMXX4?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C2139.g.40774718%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Containing triple oat complex and natural colloidal oatmeal, this lotion can bring relief from itching and rashes caused by poison ivy, insect bites, and other causes, in addition to providing relief from general skin itching and dryness.</p>
    11/13

    10) Anti-Itch Concentrated Lotion

    Aveeno

    amazon.com

    $9.57

    Shop Now

    Containing triple oat complex and natural colloidal oatmeal, this lotion can bring relief from itching and rashes caused by poison ivy, insect bites, and other causes, in addition to providing relief from general skin itching and dryness.

    amazon.com
  • <p><strong>Cortizone 10</strong></p><p>amazon.com</p><p><strong>$4.86</strong></p><p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000YMDR4K?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C2139.g.40774718%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Dr. Zeichner recommends applying this 1% hydrocortisone cream to bug bits twice a day to reduce itch and swelling. This cream also contains aloe vera to help calm your skin for up to 10 hours. </p>
    12/13

    11) Maximum Strength Creme With Aloe

    Cortizone 10

    amazon.com

    $4.86

    Shop Now

    Dr. Zeichner recommends applying this 1% hydrocortisone cream to bug bits twice a day to reduce itch and swelling. This cream also contains aloe vera to help calm your skin for up to 10 hours.

    amazon.com
  • <p><strong>CareAll</strong></p><p>amazon.com</p><p><strong>$5.99</strong></p><p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08L3469NH?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C2139.g.40774718%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>If you’re looking for an anti-itch solution for sensitive areas (like your vagina and anus), Dr. Zeichner recommends this ointment containing zinc oxide. Zinc has anti-inflammatory properties and will help coat the surface of your skin and prevent chafing. FYI, this is the same type of cream used to treat diaper rash.</p>
    13/13

    12) Zinc Oxide 20% Skin Protectant Barrier Ointment

    CareAll

    amazon.com

    $5.99

    Shop Now

    If you’re looking for an anti-itch solution for sensitive areas (like your vagina and anus), Dr. Zeichner recommends this ointment containing zinc oxide. Zinc has anti-inflammatory properties and will help coat the surface of your skin and prevent chafing. FYI, this is the same type of cream used to treat diaper rash.

    amazon.com
<p>Whether you have itchy, irritated skin from an allergic reaction, skin sensitivity, or pesky bug bite, one thing is for sure: You want relief ASAP. You may try quelling the discomfort with an ice pack, but when that doesn't cut it, you may need to turn to an anti-itch cream for help.</p><p class="body-text">Before running to your local pharmacy, you should get to know what may be behind your skin itch because you may need a different treatment depending on the cause. You probably know that summertime itchy skin is commonly due to mosquito bites, or potentially from poison ivy or other rashes after spending extended time outdoors. </p><p class="body-text">Itchy skin may also be caused by skin barrier disruption, skin dryness, a genetic predisposition, or inflammatory conditions like eczema, according to <a href="http://www.zeichnerdermatology.com" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Joshua Zeichner, MD" class="link ">Joshua Zeichner, MD</a>, the director of cosmetic and clinical research and an associate professor of dermatology at the Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. “Collectively, they lead to an increase in inflammatory signals in the skin that drive the itch response,” he explains. <br></p><p>While anti-itch creams can be a temporary lifesaver, if you’re not seeing improvements within two weeks, Dr. Zeichner recommends visiting a dermatologist. </p><p class="body-text">Here are 12 dermatologist-approved anti-itch creams. Because let’s be honest, itchy skin is a nightmare. </p>
<p><strong>Cortizone 10</strong></p><p>amazon.com</p><p><strong>$8.00</strong></p><p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001KY7LAM?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C2139.g.40774718%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>This is a good anti-itch cream to keep on hand in your medicine cabinet. “For mosquito bites or mild cases of poison ivy, the product I recommend most often is hydrocortisone formulated as a single active ingredient, which can be found in this ointment,” says Dr. Katta.</p>
<p><strong>CeraVe</strong></p><p>amazon.com</p><p><strong>$19.87</strong></p><p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B017610BFO?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C2139.g.40774718%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>This gentle cream is a good option for other itchy conditions, such as dry skin, sunburn, and irritation due to insect bites, according to Dr. Katta.</p>
<p><strong>Aveeno</strong></p><p>amazon.com</p><p><strong>$19.68</strong></p><p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00CWY8V9O?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C2139.g.40774718%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Aveeno anti-itch cream is a top pick to stymie scratchiness. Dr. Katta recommends this cream, which contains soothing colloidal oatmeal, for those with dry skin in need of a strong moisturizer.</p>
<p><strong>Campho-Phenique</strong></p><p>amazon.com</p><p><strong>$14.99</strong></p><p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000U9V4YC?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C2139.g.40774718%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>This medicated gel is a good option to instantly relieve itching from bug bites and stings, irritated skin, and even minor burns. The antiseptic properties also help kill germs and prevent infection.</p>
<p><strong>Benadryl</strong></p><p>amazon.com</p><p><strong>$23.48</strong></p><p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01HDOGTLO?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C2139.g.40774718%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>This histamine-blocking cream can bring soothing relief to itching caused by outdoor aggravators, like bug bites and poison ivy.</p>
<p><strong>Gold Bond</strong></p><p>amazon.com</p><p><strong>$36.00</strong></p><p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004X8KMU8?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C2139.g.40774718%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Gold Bond is another good option for outdoor-related itching, and with menthol as its active ingredient, you’ll quickly notice a cooling sensation of relief upon application.</p>
<p><strong>Aveeno</strong></p><p>amazon.com</p><p><strong>$9.16</strong></p><p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B012X33HMY?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C2139.g.40774718%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Formulated with 1% hydrocortisone, this cream is effective for stopping any itch. You'll also get the added bonus ingredient of triple oat complex to relieve the dryness and irritation that can come with scratchy skin.</p>
<p><strong>Curél </strong></p><p>amazon.com</p><p><strong>$9.77</strong></p><p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0046OFO3Y?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C2139.g.40774718%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>If your main issue is dryness, a moisturizing lotion may be all you need. This one, approved by the National Eczema Association, aims to restore the skin’s barrier to prevent further irritation and can also provide relief from eczema.</p>
<p><strong>Eucerin</strong></p><p>amazon.com</p><p><strong>$9.19</strong></p><p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000YGDRIW?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C2139.g.40774718%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>This oatmeal-enriched cream provides all-day relief from dry, itchy skin. It goes on so silky smooth and isn't sticky, so you may want to make this your daily body moisturizer all year.</p>
<p><strong>Aveeno</strong></p><p>amazon.com</p><p><strong>$9.57</strong></p><p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000GCMXX4?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C2139.g.40774718%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Containing triple oat complex and natural colloidal oatmeal, this lotion can bring relief from itching and rashes caused by poison ivy, insect bites, and other causes, in addition to providing relief from general skin itching and dryness.</p>
<p><strong>Cortizone 10</strong></p><p>amazon.com</p><p><strong>$4.86</strong></p><p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000YMDR4K?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C2139.g.40774718%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Dr. Zeichner recommends applying this 1% hydrocortisone cream to bug bits twice a day to reduce itch and swelling. This cream also contains aloe vera to help calm your skin for up to 10 hours. </p>
<p><strong>CareAll</strong></p><p>amazon.com</p><p><strong>$5.99</strong></p><p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08L3469NH?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C2139.g.40774718%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>If you’re looking for an anti-itch solution for sensitive areas (like your vagina and anus), Dr. Zeichner recommends this ointment containing zinc oxide. Zinc has anti-inflammatory properties and will help coat the surface of your skin and prevent chafing. FYI, this is the same type of cream used to treat diaper rash.</p>

Dermatologists explain why your skin may be itchy, plus the go-to topical ingredients and best anti-itch creams to quell irritation, redness, and dryness.

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