Why does your skin itch in winter? How to avoid severe dry skin in winter Causes of dry and itchy body skin in winter

1. Low humidity

In winter, cold dry air outside and hot air indoors take all the moisture from the skin, causing it to become overdried and often begin to peel.

How to solve a problem. Increase humidity indoors (at home or in the workplace) with humidifiers that replenish moisture in your skin and hair. Also wear gloves to prevent dry hands and cracking. To replenish lost moisture, moisturize your hands every time you wash them and don't apply before going outside (this will make your hands even more chapped).

2. Hot shower and bath

Usually in winter we find another use for the bathroom - we get into the shower, turn on the hot (or very hot) water and warm ourselves up. If you do this too, then be aware that this greatly dries out your skin. The same applies to taking a bath: too hot water and a long bath have a negative impact on the condition of the skin.

How to solve a problem. We strongly recommend that you warm up in any other way and wash with warm water. Shower or bathe for no more than 10 minutes, then dry and moisturize your skin while it is still damp. Moisturizer is more effective than lotion. If you tend to have dry skin, moisturize your skin twice a day during the winter.

3. Dehydration

As a rule, in the summer we drink a lot of water in order to cool down and fight thirst. During winter, we don't feel thirsty, so we tend to drink less water, which consequently leads to dehydration of the skin.

How to solve a problem. It's simple - try to drink water! If drinking 1.5 liters per day is false, drink the amount you can.

4. Lots of clothes

Yes, yes, it is the layering of clothes in winter that affects the condition of our skin. The more clothing there is, the more friction it exerts on the skin. This is especially true for such wardrobe items as stockings and tights. Wool clothing can also cause irritation and dry skin.

If your skin is prone to eczema, avoid wearing woolen items directly on bare skin as this may cause irritation and eczema.

How to solve a problem. Choose soft, breathable fabrics (such as cotton) instead of itchy wool or polyester. Loose, non-tight clothing will reduce friction and also eliminate the problem of excessive sweating.

5. Excessive cleansing of skin and hair

Frequent bathing or hot showers or baths can strip your skin of its protective layer, leaving it dry and sensitive.

How to solve a problem. Do not use soaps or skin care products that contain alcohol. Instead, use mild, unscented soap and moisturizing body products (shower gel, etc.).

When the skin becomes dry, its sebaceous glands do not produce enough protective film. This makes the skin vulnerable to adverse environmental factors. The lack of a protective film and lack of moisture in the cells lead to dryness, peeling and rapid aging of the skin. To avoid this, you need to properly care for dry skin. And to combat dryness, you must first know the causes of dry skin.

Causes:

• heredity;
• lack of vitamins in the body;
• dry air;
• very frequent washing of skin and hair (the more we wash, the less protective film remains on the skin);
• incorrectly selected means for washing (for example, using soap);
• non-compliance with drinking regime;
• prolonged exposure to frost in winter;
• various diseases of the gastrointestinal tract;
• hormonal imbalance;
• age-related changes.

How to care for dry skin:

• drink up to 2 liters of water per day;
• Wash your face with water at room temperature. Avoid using hot or too cold water. It is best to wash your face with milk, cream or oil for washing;
• do not use lotions containing alcohol, which dry out the skin;
• use moisturizing masks several times a week;
• choose the right cream (the label should say “for dry skin”);
• use a humidifier;
• do treatments for dry skin.

Today, the most effective procedures for dry facial skin are:

*Peelings(mechanical, hardware, chemical) remove dead cells, renew the skin;

*Collagen masks(tighten, moisturize and tone the skin);

*Various types of facial massage(improves blood circulation, refreshes complexion);

*Mesotherapy

*Biorevitalization ( introduction of hyaluronic acid by injection, which has a moisturizing effect);

*Salon treatments active nutrition and moisturizing of the skin.

In winter, most people's skin dries and flakes, and women suffer more often: their skin is thinner and more vulnerable than men's, and the requirements for appearance have always been different. So, if a man’s skin peels, it’s unpleasant, but for most women it’s just a disaster; In addition, dryness and flaking bring noticeable discomfort into life, and worsen not only your mood, but also your health. When the skin is dry and itchy, it is difficult to talk about proper rest and restful sleep; Cosmetics help temporarily, and decorative products generally look unattractive on dry skin.

Dry skin in winter: why and how to help it

First of all, remember that the skin suffers in winter not so much due to cold and temperature changes, but also due to the effects of heating devices. Indoor air humidity becomes low - about 30%, and it should be increased by any means. If there are no special humidifiers, fill some containers with water and place them near the radiators; Place a damp cloth on the batteries, and do not forget to wet it several times a day.

You also need to supply your body with moisture “to the fullest,” and you shouldn’t think that this is irrelevant in winter. In the summer, in the heat, we remember that the body becomes dehydrated, and we try to drink as much as possible. But in winter, dehydration is no less: for example, when we are in the cold, steam comes from our mouth and nose - this is precisely what precious moisture leaves. In enclosed spaces, very dry and warm, moisture is lost just as quickly, although outwardly we do not notice it. This means that you need to drink even more in winter than in summer, and that is clean water.

Do not want? Try replacing coffee and tea with clean water if you really can’t help it, and drink a glass of water every time you want to snack. True, most people - at least adults - know that we feel thirst when the body begins to dehydrate, so it is better to determine for yourself the daily water intake - 1.5-2 liters, and learn to drink it between meals.

When washing your face in winter, do not rush to reach for a towel, but wait until your skin absorbs moisture. You should wash your face with water not from the tap, but preferably spring water, mineral water, or at least settled boiled water. Melt water is useful - find out how to prepare it correctly.

Folk remedies for dry skin in winter

Folk remedies, or home remedies, always come to the rescue. Most often these are masks, although lotions, creams, tonics and other skin care products can also be used. For masks to be more effective, you should use them according to all the rules - it’s not difficult.

Before applying the mask, the skin must be cleansed, and the masks themselves must be prepared only from fresh ingredients - for example, from food that can be safely eaten without heat treatment.

If your skin is oily, it is better to choose a mask with the optimal combination of ingredients, and do it over a course of up to 1-2 months.

Wash off the masks with warm water or “room” water, and then apply cream according to your skin type to consolidate the healing effect.

The most useful and simple masks are prepared from ordinary household products.

So, you can take 1 tbsp. oatmeal (ground), olive oil and honey, raw yolk, mix everything thoroughly until smooth and apply to face. Wash off after 15-20 minutes.

A mask with fresh cucumber juice and cream nourishes and moisturizes dry skin well. Juice and cream (1 tablespoon each) are thoroughly mixed with the same amount of rose water, and applied to the skin of the face and neck for 20 minutes. The drier the skin, the higher the fat content of the cream.

Moisturizing, nourishing and whitening mask includes milk, tender cottage cheese, carrot juice and olive oil - all 1 tsp each. Mix the ingredients until smooth and apply to the face. Wash off after 15 minutes. You can apply it to the neck and décolleté, but then increase the proportions.

The next two masks include slightly more “exotic” ingredients - coconut and avocado oil, but you can also buy them without any problems.

A mask of beaten egg, honey (1 tbsp) and coconut oil (1/4 tbsp) deeply moisturizes. First, beat the egg, add honey and butter, mix, pour into a jar, close and put in the refrigerator overnight. In the morning, apply the mixture to cleansed skin. Keep for 15-20 minutes.

Dry skin becomes softer, more tender and more elastic after masks with avocado, egg white, vegetable oil (olive, almond, corn, etc.), and natural apple cider vinegar. Mash the ripe pulp of 1/2 avocado, combine with beaten egg white, 1 tsp. oil and 3-5 drops of vinegar - you can use a blender. The mask is applied for 20 minutes.

Modern creams for dry skin in winter

In winter, you should not choose creams with products of petrochemical origin - paraffin, petroleum jelly or mineral oil. They can protect, but they are addictive, and the work of the sebaceous glands slows down: the skin “does not want to work” itself, and this makes it extremely vulnerable.

But creams with vitamin E and natural vegetable oils (avocado, shea butter, cocoa, macadamia, etc.) will be an excellent choice.

A few examples.

The famous French manufacturer Sisley produces day winter cream Confort, with extracts of linden, olive, shea, plum and other components that stimulate the production of sebum. The skin is protected from the outside, while at the same time restoring its natural functions, and dryness gradually decreases. There is also Confort night cream, with echinacea and arnica extracts, wheat proteins, for dry and especially sensitive skin. By using both of these creams in winter, you can rest assured about your skin, but quality requires considerable investment, and “on average” it can cost 15-17 thousand rubles.

Significantly cheaper - sometimes less than 1,500 rubles - is the Vichy product - Nutrilogie deep-action cream for dry skin, based on thermal water. It is presented as a 24-hour oil-binding product, but is non-greasy and easily absorbed - it should be applied morning and night. Contains glycerin, arginine, vitamin E, vegetable oils, helps the skin begin producing its own lipids.

If this price “doesn’t fit into the budget,” you can pay attention to the domestic “Clean Line”, which produces inexpensive creams for winter care. For example, Lungwort with linden blossom costs less than 100 rubles - with this cream you can also protect dry skin from frost and wind.

Have you ever wondered why we constantly scratch our skin? may be due to several reasons.

Why does my skin itch?

Skin is the largest organ of our body. The skin is constantly exposed to many external factors. Just like other organs, the skin has its own protective mechanisms that help it warn the body about a threat and protect itself from it.

Which we sometimes experience - it's just a danger signal that our body sends us.

But what can threaten our skin? Many external irritants: dust, contact with hair and clothing, insects, sweat, fragments of leaves and flowers. All this awakens skin receptors, which send an alarm signal to the brain, causing us to experience itching. And we start to itch...

When we scratch our skin, it seems to us that it becomes easier. But the problem is that this can worsen your condition. Especially if dirt from nails or fingers gets under the skin or we put too much pressure on it. If the itchy skin gets worse or causes pain, it may be the result of an allergic reaction. There are also psychological causes of itching: nervousness, anxiety, etc.

Itchy skin and the most common causes:

• Lack of moisture
• Psoriasis
• Excessive sweating
• Improper hygiene
• Irritation
• Use of harsh chemicals
• Insect bites
• Mites and other microorganisms
• Stress
• Nerves
• Anxiety
• Side effects from medications
• Exposure to low temperatures

Various studies claim that there are neutrons in the brain with a special function: they give a signal when something comes into contact with our skin and could potentially harm us.

In 2007, a group of researchers at the University of Washington in the USA discovered that nerve cells exist, which are associated only with the control of itching sensations. The study, conducted by a biologist, psychiatrist and anesthesiologist, was published in the journal Science.

The stimuli that are associated with itching are controlled by nerve fibers that are located just under the skin throughout the body. They send a signal to the brain through the spinal cord. Then the neurons let us know that “someone is biting” us. Thanks to these same nerve endings, we understand that we feel pain.

To scratch or not to scratch?

When we scratch our skin, we are simply reacting to a strong irritant. This unconscious signal indicates that the skin is irritated. When we comb it, we feel relief. On the other hand, after this the itching may become even stronger.

When we scratch our skin to get rid of the terrible itchy feeling, we scratch a wider area, causing it to become even more inflamed and the itchy area to become larger.

When we cough or sneeze, we are reacting to an impulse that we cannot control. That's why it's useful to understand what factors cause your skin itching and how you can neutralize their influence.

In a study from Wake Forest University (North Carolina, USA), scientists conducted magnetic resonance imaging to understand what happens to the brain when we scratch. Participants were required to use a brush to scratch their leg for 30 seconds and rest for another 30 seconds.

To their surprise, researchers have found that certain parts of the brain associated with unpleasant memories and emotions turn off when we scratch. Maybe, This is precisely what is associated with the feeling of relief and calm after scratching the skin.

Why does my skin itch more in winter?

Many people suffer from severe itchy skin in winter. This is due to the fact that the skin dries out greatly when exposed to low temperatures, snow and wind. This is felt most strongly on the hands and face, which are most often exposed to cold. We also use hot water more often in winter. Temperature contrast dries out the skin, and soaps and detergents can cause dermatitis.

Another reason is that in winter we wear more clothes, so the skin does not breathe. Wool and rough, dense fabrics can also cause itching.

And in order to avoid scratching and injuring the skin again, apply cold compresses to those places where itching is most severe. You can also soak a cloth in chamomile infusion or make a mask from green clay. Don't forget about the benefits for the skin.

In winter, the epidermis is exposed to aggressive effects due to unfavorable weather. Frost, wind, sun, sudden changes in temperature have the most negative effect on the condition of the skin. It begins to dry out very much, crack, peel, itch very much, and an unpleasant itch appears. It is in cold weather that you should take special care of it to prevent loss of moisture.

Why does dryness occur?

Many people are aware of the problem of dry skin in winter.

The epidermis is covered with a layer of protective hydrolipidic film, which protects it from external negative factors. The film, thanks to the sebum and moisture contained in it, prevents bacteria from penetrating inside. Skin in normal condition remains elastic and smooth for a long time. With improper and untimely care, the epidermis loses moisture, bursts, and begins to itch. Infections can get inside through cracks, causing an inflammatory process. Why does skin dry out in winter?

• Congenital feature. Genetically, a person may have a predisposition to excessively dry skin.
• The cause may be hormonal imbalances. Endocrine problems can also cause dry skin.
• Improper care of face and body.
• Washing with too cold or, conversely, too hot water.
• Prolonged stay in a room with excessive heating.
• The skin dries from a lack of vitamins and poor nutrition.
• Excessive cosmetic procedures that harm the skin.
• Exacerbation of chronic diseases that cause dry and cracked skin.

Skin can dry out for many reasons, one of which is improper care.

How to properly care for dry skin in winter

First of all, you should identify the reason why your skin dries and itches in winter. It is better to contact a dermatologist and cosmetologist, who will select individual treatment and recommend remedies. They will help get rid of dryness and bring your face and body back to normal.

Important! It is especially important to consult a doctor in time if dry skin in winter was caused by diseases of internal organs, the immune system, a malfunction in the hormonal system, or the presence of fungal infections.

Everyone needs to start timely care as soon as temperature fluctuations appear, it gets sharply cold, the heating turns on, and the diet changes. The basic rules of care are as follows:

What to do if your face is chapped, ways to restore your skin

In the autumn-winter period, you should choose richer skin care creams

1. It is necessary to adhere to a strict sequence: cleansing, moisturizing, nutrition and protection. You should not skip any of these procedures, otherwise the condition may only worsen.
2. You should choose cleansing cosmetics based on thermal waters. Avoid products that contain alcohol, it dries out the epidermis even more.
3. In winter, you should not wash your dry skin with cleansing foams and mousses in the first half of the day. They wash away the protective hydrolipidic layer, which causes dryness, peeling, and cracking of the skin.
4. During the autumn-winter period, refuse to take a hot bath in favor of a contrast shower.
5. Do not use hard towels or rub your face and body. After showering, gently pat your body dry with a soft towel to remove excess moisture.
6. Don’t be lazy to apply a nourishing cream to your body every time after taking a shower, especially if the skin on your body is very dry.
7. Apply moisturizers in the evening. This should not be done before going outside, since moisturizing components in the cold will cause even more harm.
8. Nutrition is the main part of caring for the epidermis in winter. Choose creams and serums high in vitamins, amino acids and other beneficial substances.
9. In winter, face and body creams should be chosen that are fattier, have a dense texture and contain valuable oils.
10. Regularly scrub your heels, elbows, and knees with a scrub or fruit peel to get rid of the layer of rough skin on your body.

How to get rid of itching on the body

Severe drying of the skin can cause severe itching and discomfort. What should you do to protect yourself from this trouble?

Severe dryness may cause severe itching on the body.

• When going out into the cold, protect exposed skin as much as possible. Lubricate your face and hands with greasy cream or Vaseline. Dress as warmly as possible to prevent hypothermia. Wear tights and warm socks on your feet, choose underwear from natural fabrics, and don’t forget about a winter hat and scarf. Instead of gloves, it is best to wear mittens; they will help your hands always stay warm.
• Take vitamin D in winter, which is sold in pharmacies in the form of drops.
• Monitor the humidity in the apartment and do not allow the room to dry out. Buy an air humidifier that will help maintain the necessary humidity in the apartment during the heating period. The drier the air, the greater the likelihood of problems with the epidermis.
• Avoid sudden changes in temperature. If possible, do not go outside at temperatures below 20 degrees, so as not to provoke frostbite and the occurrence of various inflammatory diseases.
• Itching can be triggered by the sun's rays, which in the cold usually have a very aggressive effect on the epidermis. Use cosmetics that contain ultraviolet protection.
• Avoid visiting the solarium at least in the autumn-winter period.
• Choose soap that contains natural ingredients.

Causes of sensitive facial skin

If all of the above methods do not help to avoid itching and flaking, and especially if the skin is cracking, be sure to consult a cosmetologist to prescribe treatment. Of course, there is a possibility that the itching may go away on its own, but there is also a possibility that it will trigger the development of more serious diseases. To prevent this, it is necessary to begin proper care of the affected skin in time.

If you cannot cope with the problem of dry skin on your own, then you should consult a cosmetologist.

Taking care of dry skin at home

Folk remedies can significantly help restore the condition of the epidermis, as well as prevent the appearance of peeling and redness in winter. Typically, masks are used at home, which are prepared immediately before use using only natural ingredients. In winter, you can make masks not twice a week, as is customary, but more often, especially if the air in the room is dry. The masks are washed off with water at room temperature, preferably boiled, and then a nourishing cream is applied to the skin.

On a note!It is better to use masks regularly, and do this in a course of several months to achieve the desired result.
Avocado mask

Avocado mask. You will need half a ripe avocado, from which the pulp is extracted. It needs to be mashed with a blender, add beaten egg white, a teaspoon of olive or flaxseed oil and a few drops of apple cider vinegar. Grind the mixture thoroughly and apply to the face, and after 15 minutes, rinse with warm water.

As for creams, give preference to those products that contain valuable oils of avocado, macadamia, shea butter, shea butter, cocoa and others, as well as vitamin E. It is not necessary that winter skin care products be from expensive global brands. Domestic cosmetics also presents a line of specialized skin care in winter.

To prevent dry skin and itching from bothering you, you need to monitor your diet more carefully. Include in your diet foods rich in vitamin B (whole grain bread, dairy products, liver, carrots), vitamin C (citrus fruits, sauerkraut, currants, kiwi), vitamins A and E (meat, eggs, nuts, seeds, vegetable oils).

It is in winter that our skin needs more careful care. Don’t forget to eat right, give up bad habits, if possible, visit a cosmetologist and follow all his advice.

Itching is an unpleasant symptom associated with irritation of nerve endings. It causes a wild desire to scratch the problem area. Some people notice that their legs below the knees are very itchy. What could this mean? Is this symptom dangerous? What to do if it appears and how to get rid of itching. We will discuss all these questions now.

• hypothermia;
• skin irritation from lint fabric;
• failure to comply with hygiene rules;
• the use of ointments and creams for the feet that cause itching;
• recent hair removal;
• dry skin due to old age;
• Tan.

Pathological causes include:

• Allergic reactions.
• Infections.
• Phlebeurysm.
• Chemical skin irritation.
• Dermatological diseases.
• Fungal skin infection.
• Diabetic complications.
• Insect bites.

If you notice that other areas of the body are also itching, this indicates that the itching is generalized. In this case, there are many more reasons, and they are very diverse. For example, this could be jaundice, diabetes mellitus, taking medications, renal failure, systemic connective tissue lesions. The cause of generalized itching should be clarified by a doctor, since it will be very difficult to determine or even suspect it at home.

Itchy feet below the knees in winter

During the cold season, your feet may itch for various reasons. Among them:

• allergy to the material from which your winter clothing is made;
• cold dermatitis;
• allergy to cold (occurs without an allergen, against the background of histamine release due to hypothermia);
• exacerbation of chronic dermatological diseases.

To determine if your skin reaction is a response to hypothermia, do a test. Apply an ice cube to a limited area of ​​skin on one leg. Observe whether morphological elements, redness of the skin or itching appear in these places.

Itchy legs below the knees in men

Take a close look at your feet. Especially if you are a man with a lot of hair on your lower limbs. Carpet fleas may be hiding in your hair. They are very common in multi-storey buildings, as they easily migrate from apartment to apartment.

These fleas jump on your legs and suck blood. Then inflammatory foci form in these places, which itch and turn red. Scratching them can cause infection.

To detect fleas, you need:

• carefully examine the legs;
• put your bare feet in a basin of water - the fleas will come off and float to the surface;
• walk around for a day or two with your pants tucked into your socks so that the fleas have nowhere to cling, and see if the itching goes away.

Itchy legs below the knees in women

Another common cause of itchy legs below the knees is varicose veins. More often this disease is observed in women. It often manifests itself during pregnancy or after childbirth.

Itching may appear at different times:

• until visually observable dilated veins appear;
• immediately after vasodilation;
• several years after the onset of varicose veins, at the stage of trophic complications.

In the most unfavorable case, itching below the knees with varicose veins indicates trophic disorders. The skin of the legs swells and has poor blood supply. First, this leads to hair loss, then to thickening of the skin, and then to the appearance of trophic ulcers.

To identify varicose veins as the cause of itching, at the initial stage of the disease, when there are no dilated veins yet, pay attention to the accompanying symptoms:

• rapid fatigue of the legs;
• swelling of the legs at the end of the day, which goes away on its own in the morning;
• the presence of spider veins on any part of the legs (not necessarily below the knees);
• leg pain;
• night spasms of the calf muscles.

If signs of varicose veins appear, you need to be observed and treated by a phlebologist - take medications, wear compression stockings, and, if necessary, undergo surgery.

Itchy legs below the knees during pregnancy

During pregnancy, itching below the knees may be a sign of beginning varicose veins. At the same time, a symptom does not necessarily indicate the development of any disease. During pregnancy, itching can have physiological causes and be caused by:

• changes in hormonal levels;
• stretching of the skin against the background of swelling and weight gain;
• increased sweating.

In any case, in order to prevent varicose veins, it is better to wear compression stockings during pregnancy. Especially if cases of this disease have occurred in your family, or you are already observing the first signs of the pathological process.

What ointment treatment is required?

If your legs below the knees are very itchy, and you scratch them to such an extent that wounds form on the skin, you should definitely consult a doctor. A visit to the doctor is also necessary if there are other alarming symptoms (dilated blood vessels, itching of the skin in other places, pain, severe redness and the appearance of a rash).

Depending on the reason why your legs below the knees itch, you can use ointments to eliminate this symptom:

• troxevasin– if itching is caused by chronic venous insufficiency;
• antihistamine ointments(Fenistil gel) – for allergies, insect bites, mechanical irritation (linty clothing, hair removal) or itching of unknown etiology;
• ointments with hydrocortisone– in case of dermatological diseases (it is not advisable to use them if they have not previously been prescribed by a doctor);
• clotrimazole– if there are signs of fungal infection (redness and peeling of the skin, unpleasant odor);
• antibiotic ointments(gentamicin, tetracycline, erythromycin) – if the disease is caused by bacterial flora (used under medical supervision).

If you are sure that the itching is not caused by a disease, you can treat it yourself at home. In most cases, any antihistamine ointment will do to relieve symptoms. If something worries you, it is better to consult a doctor to find out the cause of the itching, because it may indicate a dangerous disease.

Itching in the lower part of the legs is considered a very common phenomenon. In women, in most cases, it occurs for several reasons: improper care of their legs during shaving, allergies to tights (stockings), various care products, citrus fruits, and also to large amounts of sugar. But itching can also signal serious illnesses.

Chronic diseases

In very rare cases, itching in the lower legs can indicate chronic diseases spreading throughout the body:

1. Psoriasis.
2. Scabies.
3. Liver failure.
4. Fungal diseases.
5. Kidney failure.
6. Development of helminthic diseases.
7. Pathologies of hematopoietic function.
8. Neurodermatitis.
9. Oncological diseases.

The feeling that your legs or any particular part of them itch regularly can develop against the background of a psychosomatic disorder - due to depression or obsessions.

What do the symptoms mean?

• Severe itching that extends from the knee to the foot. The cause of the development of this form of itching from the knee to the foot can be almost any of the above pathologies. You can reduce the range of suspected diseases in the body if you carefully monitor the accompanying symptoms and factors that influence exacerbations in the body of a healthy person. You should carefully analyze the most common diseases, which are characterized by the presence of itching, localized in the intervals from the knee to the foot.
• Psoriasis- such a chronic disease at an early stage is characterized by redness and itching in the ankle area. If the development of such pathologies is not prevented, peeling will begin to develop and the disease may spread to a large area. Diagnosing psoriasis at home will not be very difficult; as a rule, the affected area of ​​the skin will begin to peel and itch very quickly after eating fatty foods, sweets, and alcohol-containing products, due to nervous feelings and general lack of sleep.
• Change in skin tone, itching and flaking. Dermatitis is a skin disease that is described by constant allergic reactions on the part of the body to things that are familiar to it or food products. Dermatitis in most cases has a congenital form, and is also localized to a greater extent in the upper and lower extremities, in some cases on the neck. Some factors can provoke such an exacerbation of dermatitis, for example, household chemicals, sweet and fatty foods, contact of allergy sufferers with animals and some other factors.
• Development of white and red spots, itching and pain, allergies. Allergic reactions rarely develop on the feet. Most food allergy rashes spread over the face, arms and neck. An allergic rash is common on the legs, which can develop during contact with synthetic clothing or when there are powder residues on it. Allergies can also develop to leg shaving products.
• Change in skin tone to pale, unpleasant odors from rotting, fluid coming out of the wound. Fungi. Fungal infections cannot develop on their own. The reason for their growth and spread is considered to be damage to the skin (bite, small wound) where spores can easily penetrate, and an inflammatory process also occurs. The reason for this phenomenon may be non-compliance with personal hygiene rules, the use of public showers, a weak immune system and other features.

Itching during pregnancy

During pregnancy, a woman may feel that literally the entire surface of her body is itching.

This problem in most cases can develop at the end of the second trimester and occurs in conjunction with weight gain and stretching of loose skin. A slight feeling of tightness and dryness that occurs along with itching can be considered absolutely normal. But severe itching in the leg area, which is accompanied by severe pain, swelling and discoloration, may indicate such disorders as diabetes mellitus in pregnant women, varicose veins, renal or liver failure.

In some cases, there is a sharp increase in the sensitivity of the lower extremities to stimuli from the external environment, this can happen due to hormonal changes, in most cases during pregnancy (with an excess of female hormones in the body). A rare neuropsychiatric disorder that affects a large number of women during pregnancy and is accompanied by severe scratching of the legs in the shin area, is considered restless legs syndrome(SBN).

The main symptoms of the disease: itching in the legs at night, illness in the legs, heaviness, insomnia, severe anxiety. In most cases, the symptoms of restless legs syndrome develop immediately after the baby is born; sometimes you can notice the development of the disease throughout lactation. The trigger that triggers the development of the disease are considered to be special hormones, hypovitaminosis, iron deficiency together with a predisposition to nervousness, unnecessary mobility, and severe stress.

Swelling in the lower extremities during pregnancy, together with severe itching, are considered factors for lymph stagnation and the possible development of varicose veins. Swelling can also develop painful sensations in the kidneys, which will occur due to severe stress on the body’s excretory system.

During the development of liver failure, itching occurs together with rashes, small red papules, or changes in skin tone.

Treatment

Therapy for skin diseases consists mainly of complex treatment. Unfortunately, today it is impossible to find a universal remedy that can be taken during itching in the legs so that not a trace remains of the disease. The symptoms of itching and allergies can be cured if based on the general picture of the patient’s medical history. Without knowing exactly why the pathology occurred, it will be very difficult to prescribe a normal treatment procedure. Skin diseases of various natures and etiologies include the use of various medications and treatments. There is no need to use anti-allergy pills during the development of psoriasis, and vice versa.

The use of medications should be under the supervision of a treating specialist, since long-term and uncontrolled use of certain types of drugs (corticosteroids, antibiotics) can develop a completely opposite reaction in the body and spread itching and rash.

The main ways to detect a disease that is described by acute itching in the legs:

The main factor during the treatment process for allergic types of reactions will be the elimination of the allergen. It is false to distinguish several types of allergies that can actively develop on the legs:

1. Hives- looks like a complex formation of small itchy pimples. May occur during natural contact with an allergic pathogen.
2. Food allergies- develops in the body when an allergen is ingested together with food products or in another way. Develops as a rash.
3. Dermatitis- This is an inflammation of the skin. It has a complex etiology (for example, long-term exposure to an allergen on the body) and develops during poisoning with heavy metals, household chemicals and other components.
4. Development of allergies to cold- This is extremely rare and mainly affects the feet and also the toes.

If people are prone to developing allergies, then it is worth conducting special tests that will be aimed at identifying the product to which the body’s main reaction will occur. In addition to exclusive contact with the allergen, the following methods can be used:

1. Drug treatment, local (gels and ointments).
2. Following a certain diet.
3. The use of medications for oral allergies.

Anti-allergy medications should include tablets and ointments. Depending on the type of reaction, a special course of treatment with antihistamines or special hormones can be prescribed.

1. Psoriasis. This disease can be called chronic, and therapeutic measures are aimed at combating general symptoms. The process of treating psoriasis involves the use of local emollients, which will be made on the basis of wax, the use of antihistamines internally, following a certain diet, avoiding stressful situations and severe overexertion.
2. Dermatitis on the skin.

The spread of the disease, which occurs in various FIDE (contact, inflammatory, lichen others). Treatment of dermatitis occurs over a long period of time, and also depends directly on the indicators of its etiology. During infectious dermatitis, it is worth using a number of antifungal and antibacterial agents in combination with analgesics. In general, if the origin of the itching is not associated with an infectious disease or a malfunction of the internal organs, then you can get rid of it very quickly and easily without using medication.

If the foot, as well as the area between two toes, is very itchy, then you can use the following treatment method: add a few tablespoons of soda and salt to very hot water, and then steam your feet in it for 5-10 minutes. Afterwards, you should smear the allergenic area with salicylic ointment, and also put on warm socks. This technique can be used in cases of severe calluses and suspected development of foot fungus.

If your feet itch all the time in the shin area, you can use hot baths with sea salt and other strong chamomile herbs. You should quickly get rid of the development of food allergies with the help of decoctions (green tea, chamomile with honey, plain milk and kefir). If you are prone to food allergies, then it would be better to avoid coffee and black tea. Ice cubes from a frozen decoction of mint, St. John's wort, chamomile, and parsley are good for removing signs of scratching.

Rubbing the affected area with a tincture of calendula or celandine (you can use milk) can speed up the healing process of wounds.

Why do your feet itch in winter?

A large number of women experience scratching in the area below the knees in winter. The first reason can be called drying of the skin surface, especially in the area of ​​​​the knees and shins. To prevent it, you should use a special moisturizing oil or cream for the body surface while showering.

The next reason that can become an irritant is the use of nylon tights, since at this time a real allergic reaction to synthetics develops. If you wear jeans or trousers in winter, then an allergy can develop to the coloring composition in the fabrics.

If the itching is accompanied by redness and acute pain, then we can safely talk about the development of an allergy to cold. To avoid such chemical scratching of the legs, you need to dress as warmly as possible, try to wear clothes only made of natural fabric. The skin can easily harden; during the development of allergic reactions to cold, experts advise taking a contrast shower.

• 1 Is itching a sign of chronic illness?
• 2 Symptoms and associated diseases
  • 2.1 Change in skin color (large pink spots), feeling of tight skin, itching, peeling, occasional appearance of papules
  • 2.2 The appearance of small white or red pimples (papules), pain, itching
  • 2.3 Change in skin color (pale), unpleasant smell of rotting, death of the skin in large quantities, fluid may ooze from the affected area
• 3 Why can your feet itch during pregnancy?
• 4 How and how to treat itchy legs below the knees
• 5 What to do if your feet are very itchy in winter?
• 6 What to do if your thighs itch on the inside?
  • 6.1 Recommended reading

Itching in the lower extremities is a common phenomenon that may indicate serious illness. In most cases, women's legs below the knees itch for several simple reasons: improper care during shaving, an allergic reaction to tights (stockings), an allergic reaction to care products, an allergy to citrus fruits or sugar, but there are also more serious problems.

Is itching a sign of chronic illness?

Less commonly, itching below the knees can indicate chronic diseases:

• diabetes;
• psoriasis;
• pathologies of hematopoietic functions;
• helminthic infestations;
• scabies;
• neurodermatitis;
• oncological diseases;
• renal failure;
• fungal infections;
• liver failure.

The feeling that your legs or some part of them are constantly itching can occur against the background of psychosomatic disorders caused by depressive states and obsessions.

Symptoms and accompanying diseases

Severe itching in the area from the knee to the foot. The cause of itching from the knee to the foot can be any of the above pathologies. You can narrow the circle of suspicion for a certain disease by knowing the symptoms that accompany it and the factors influencing its exacerbation. Let's consider the most common diseases characterized by itching, localized in the area from the knee to the foot.

Psoriasis - this chronic disease at an early stage is characterized by redness and itching in the ankle area. If the development of pathology is not prevented, peeling begins and the disease can spread over a wide area. Diagnosing psoriasis at home is not difficult; as a rule, the affected area of ​​the skin begins to flake and itch more intensely after eating fatty foods, sweets, alcohol and due to nervous experiences and lack of sleep.

Change in skin color (large pink spots), feeling of tight skin, itching, peeling, occasional appearance of papules

Dermatitis is a skin disease characterized by constant allergic reactions to familiar products or things. Dermatitis is often congenital and is localized to a greater extent in the area of ​​the lower or upper extremities, and sometimes the neck. Factors such as contact with household chemicals, sweet or fatty foods, contact with animals and much more can provoke an exacerbation of dermatitis.

The appearance of small white or red pimples (papules), pain, itching

Allergy. Allergic reactions on the feet do not occur often. Food allergy rashes most often affect the face, neck, and arms. An allergic rash on the legs may appear when it comes into contact with clothing made from synthetic materials or if there are powder residues on it. It is also possible to be allergic to leg shaving products.

Change in skin color (pale), unpleasant smell of rotting, death of the skin in large quantities, fluid may ooze from the affected area

Fungi. Fungal infections do not develop on their own. The reason for the growth of the infection zone is damage to the skin (small wound, bite) where spores enter and an inflammatory process begins. The reason for this may be poor personal hygiene, use of public showers, a weak immune system, and much more.

Why can your feet itch during pregnancy?

During pregnancy, a woman may feel that her entire body is itching.

This problem mainly appears at the end of the second trimester and is associated with active weight gain and stretching of the skin. A slight feeling of tightness and dryness accompanied by occasional itching is considered normal. But intense itching in the legs, accompanied by pain, swelling and discoloration, may indicate disorders such as pregnancy diabetes, varicose veins, kidney or liver failure.

Sometimes increased sensitivity of the lower extremities to external stimuli may be associated with hormonal changes, most often during pregnancy with a girl (due to excess female hormones). A rare neuropsychiatric disorder that worries women during pregnancy and is accompanied by severe scratching of the legs in the lower leg area is restless legs syndrome (RLS).

Symptoms: itching in the legs at night, sore legs, heaviness, insomnia, anxiety. In most cases, the symptoms of RLS disappear immediately after the birth of the child; in rare cases, the disease may progress throughout the lactation period. The trigger that triggers the development of the syndrome is hormones, hypovitaminosis, iron deficiency in combination with a predisposition to nervous breakdowns, unjustified worries, and stress.

Swelling of the lower extremities during pregnancy, combined with severe itching, is a sign of lymph stagnation and the possible development of varicose veins. Swelling can also provoke malfunctions of the kidneys caused by a heavy load on the excretory system.

In liver failure, itching is observed in combination with rashes, small red papules, or changes in skin color.

How and how to treat itchy legs below the knees

Treatment of skin diseases involves an integrated approach. Unfortunately, today there is no universal remedy that could be taken for itchy legs and there would be no trace of the disease left. Itching can be treated based on the general picture of the patient's medical history. Without knowing what exactly became the root cause of the pathology, it is not possible to prescribe adequate therapy. Skin diseases of various etiologies require the use of various medications. Allergy pills should not be used if you have psoriasis and vice versa.

The use of medications should be monitored by the attending physician, since prolonged and uncontrolled use of certain groups of drugs (corticosteroids, antibiotics) can lead to a reverse reaction and the spread of rash and itching.

The main methods of treating diseases characterized by acute itching in the legs:

The fundamental direction in the treatment of allergic reactions is the elimination of the allergen. There are several types of allergies that appear on the feet:

1. Urticaria is the formation of small itchy pimples. Appears upon direct contact with an allergen;
2. Food allergy - occurs when an allergen enters the body through food or another route. Manifests itself in the form of a rash;
3. Dermatitis is an inflammation of the skin. It has a complex etiology (for example, with prolonged exposure to an allergen), and is observed in cases of poisoning with heavy metals, household chemicals, etc.
4. Allergy to cold is a rare phenomenon and mainly affects the feet and toes.

For people with a tendency to develop allergies, special tests are done to determine the product to which a negative reaction may develop. In addition to avoiding contact with the allergen, the following therapeutic measures are used:

• local medicinal treatment (ointments, gels);
• taking oral allergy medications;
• diet.

Allergy medications include ointments and tablets. Depending on the type of reaction, a course of antihistamines or hormonal drugs is prescribed.

1. Psoriasis. This disease is chronic, and therapeutic measures are aimed at combating symptoms. Treatment of psoriasis consists of using local wax-based emollients, taking oral antihistamines, following a special diet, and avoiding stress and overexertion.
2. Dermatitis. A common disease that exists in various forms (contact, inflammatory, lichen, etc.) Treatment of dermatitis is long and depends on its etiology. For dermatitis of infectious origin, a number of antifungal and antibacterial drugs are used in combination with analgesics. In general, if the itching is not associated with infection and a violation of the internal functions of the body, it can be eliminated without resorting to drug treatment.

If your foot and the area between your toes itches, you can use the following method: add a few tablespoons of soda and salt to very hot water and steam your feet in it for 5-10 minutes. Afterwards, you need to apply salicylic ointment to the itchy areas and put on warm socks. This method can be used for calluses and suspected foot fungus.

With constant scratching of the legs in the shin area, hot baths with sea salt and a strong chamomile infusion will help. Drinking plenty of fluids (green tea, chamomile with honey, warm milk, kefir) will help you get rid of food allergies faster. If you are prone to food allergies, it is better to avoid coffee and black tea. Ice cubes from frozen decoctions of mint, parsley, St. John's wort, and chamomile relieve signs of scratching well.

Rubbing with calendula tincture or celandine (you can use milk) will help speed up the healing of scratched wounds.

What to do if your feet are very itchy in winter?

Many women suffer from the problem of scratching their legs in winter for obvious reasons, the first of which is dry skin, especially in the areas of the knees and shins. To avoid this phenomenon, you need to use moisturizing oils or body creams after taking a shower. The next reason that can cause severe itching is wearing nylon tights, in this case a typical allergic reaction to synthetics appears. If you wear trousers or jeans in winter, you may be allergic to the coloring composition of the fabric.

If the itching is accompanied by redness and severe pain, then we can safely talk about an allergy to cold. To avoid scratching your feet in winter, dress warmly and try to choose clothes made from natural materials. The skin tends to harden; if you are allergic to cold, it is useful to take a contrast shower.

If the itching is accompanied by a rash and spreads from the legs to other areas of the skin, this may be a manifestation of hypovitaminosis. You can avoid a lack of vitamins in winter by eating more kiwi, sauerkraut, beets and carrots. It is these products that contain the maximum amount of substances necessary for the body during the cold season.

What to do if your thighs itch on the inside?

The inner surface of the thigh may itch for all of the above reasons. In obese people, these reasons can also be added to excess weight and constant friction of the thighs against each other. If such a problem exists, it is recommended to wear special underwear, since marks from scratching in such areas heal very slowly and there is a risk of infection.

If there is severe itching with the appearance of erosions, you should donate blood to test glucose tolerance. Because these are the main symptoms of diabetes. If your thighs itch, you should not use moisturizers; the safest drugs to relieve discomfort are salicylic ointment, calendula tincture, and sea salt baths.

Itching below the knees not only causes discomfort, forces you to restrain yourself from scratching in crowded places, and prevents you from wearing your favorite clothes in the summer, but also indicates a possible ongoing disease of the internal organs. Therefore, when the legs below the knees itch, the causes of this condition must be established without fail. In this article we will look at the factors that provoke the occurrence of this symptom, as well as how to treat itching.

If your legs itch below the knees, then the reasons may be “superficial”, not indicating the need for concern, which can be easily eliminated on your own, or requiring a competent examination and timely treatment. It is much easier to cope with itching that is caused by external factors.

If your legs itch from the feet to the knees, this may be a signal of an ongoing illness. There are many reasons, and the disease can be identified by its characteristic symptoms.

Symptoms

Vascular pathology

Varicose veins are more common in middle-aged and older people. Veins and nodules are visible from the knees to the ankles, swelling and fatigue of the legs are observed. With light pressure, pain is felt and the skin on the legs itches. Symptoms intensify after long walking or physical fatigue.

Allergy

It manifests itself as a rash of small red pimples or redness at the site of contact with the allergen. The skin on the legs rarely reacts to food. Allergies can be caused by residual detergents on clothes and synthetic materials.

Dermatitis

Manifests itself in the form of an allergic reaction to familiar foods and skin care cosmetics. The leg itches below the knee on the front side of the shin. Pink spots appear and the skin feels tight. Exacerbation is provoked by stress, lack of sleep, consumption of sweets, spicy foods, and alcohol.

At an early stage, peeling and itching are noticeable in the ankle area. Then papules and plaques appear, having a convex shape, and the joints hurt. Itching intensifies with nervous experiences, drinking alcohol and fatty foods.

Severe redness and blisters appear on the legs, which then burst, giving way to suppuration. The legs below the knees are very itchy, the itching bothers me during sleep and rest. The temperature in the affected area rises.

Hives

It appears as a small red rash like after a nettle burn. Causes severe itching and burning. Possible as an allergic reaction to certain foods, cosmetics, and medications.

Itching in the legs below the knee and throughout the body is caused by a microscopic mite, which is transmitted through contact with a sick person. You want to scratch itchy areas more after taking a shower, bath, or while sleeping. Most often, outbreaks of the disease are observed in the second half of the calendar year.

Worm infestations

Everyone is at risk; many people get sick, but don’t even know it. Symptoms include itchy feet, fatigue, irritability, drowsiness, and disturbances in the gastrointestinal tract. It is not always possible to determine the presence of worms, because it is necessary to take tests at least 10 times in order to confidently make a diagnosis.

Neurological disorders (neuropathy, osteochondrosis, multiple sclerosis, tumors)

Muscle wasting appears, sleep disturbances appear, limbs itch, fatigue quickly sets in, and joints ache.

Pathology of the kidneys and liver

With kidney failure, the legs become swollen and itchy. This is due to a decrease in excretory capacity and the release of salt through the skin.

In case of liver diseases, in addition to itching of the legs, one feels dry and bitter in the mouth, and spider veins appear throughout the body.

Blood diseases (polycythemia, lymphoma)

With high bone marrow activity, there is an increase in red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. As a result, blood flow and the supply of cells with oxygen and necessary elements are disrupted. This is expressed by itching of the legs from the knees to the feet, pain in the calf muscles.

Endocrine diseases (diabetes mellitus, hyperthyroidism)

Dry skin appears, a crawling sensation occurs, and wounds of various types take a long time to heal. There may be severe itching and pain. Due to thinning and dry skin, it can be easily injured.

Psychosomatic disorders (depression, anorexia)

Itching and heaviness in the limbs, fever, headaches, fever, nausea.

Restless legs syndrome (RLS)

There is an itching sensation and a desire to move the legs at rest. A neurological disease is more often diagnosed in women, but also occurs in men. The cause may be a lack of calcium and magnesium. Pregnant women are a special risk group.

Mild periodic itching throughout the body at this time is normal and is associated with skin stretching and hormonal changes. But if the itching becomes severe, it may indicate restless leg syndrome, diabetes, or varicose veins.

Fungal infections

Most often, the fungus affects the feet, but can spread to the lower leg and calves. The skin becomes pale in the affected areas, and an unpleasant putrid odor appears. If left untreated, large areas may be affected. The fungus gets on the skin through a wound, mechanical damage, or sharing hygiene items with a sick person.

Sometimes the pathology is seasonal, and the legs below the knees itch only in winter. To understand what to do, you need to identify why this is happening.

Various causes can cause itching of the legs below the knees; treatment and recovery depend entirely on a correct and timely diagnosis. Only the attending physician should be trusted to prescribe a course of therapy.

Course of treatment (medicines, dosage, duration of use)

Dry skin

To get rid of the disease you need to drink at least 1.5 liters of water per day. Regular or mineral without gases, green or white tea without sugar will do. When taking a shower, you need to choose moisturizing cosmetics (milk, gel). For excessive dryness, nourish the skin with natural oils.

To avoid discomfort, you should apply sunscreen before sunbathing, and then smear your skin with after-sun lotion. With proper care, the epidermis will be protected from ultraviolet rays, which dry out and burn it, and will also be well hydrated. Also treat the affected area with drugs: Panthenol, Bepanten 3 times a day.

Insect bites

Treat wounds with boric alcohol, brilliant green, furatsilin solution, menthol ointment 2 times a day until the itching goes away and the swelling subsides. Alcohol tincture, Menovazin or Menovazan cream help well. They need to be applied 2-3 times a day until the problem is eliminated.

Allergy

To block the release of histamine, Ketotifen is prescribed 1 tablet 2 times a day. It is also recommended to treat the affected area with antihistamines. Antihistamine tablets Cetrin and Fenistil gel help well.

Skin diseases

The correct course can only be prescribed by the attending physician after a complete examination. For psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and eczema, Skin-cap aerosol is used. For complex diseases, hormonal drugs can be prescribed: Prednisolone, Dexamethasone. You cannot take them for longer than 10 days.

Psychosomatic disorders

To eliminate itching, you need to correctly determine the cause. For disorders of this nature, only a psychotherapist can make a correct diagnosis. Self-medication can cause the problem to get worse.

The complex prescribes sedatives, physiotherapy, and electrosleep.

The doctor prescribes Essentiale 3 times a day for a month, Lipoic acid in the same course.

Phlebeurysm

Clotrimazole cream is applied to the affected areas of the skin in a thin layer 2-3 times a day for 2 to 4 weeks.

In addition to taking medications, simple rules can help eliminate symptoms and reduce itching:

In addition to the main treatment, you can make home remedies using traditional recipes.

It is important to first establish why your legs below the knees itch, and then decide how to cure the disease. You cannot prescribe medications on your own.