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Short fingernails cause less damage to the skin if you do happen to scratch. If you find yourself scratching at night, try wearing cotton gloves to bed.
6. Ask about eczema medications.
If none of these steps helps with itch control, ask your doctor about medications. When used as directed, these medications work well to control eczema flare-ups. "Topical anti-inflammatory creams, such as 1% hydrocortisone, are useful during a flare," says Cambio. "But you might need a stronger prescription if over-the-counter treatments don’t appear to control symptoms."
Oral antihistamines can also help relieve the itch of eczema. These are medications that you take by mouth. "Although experts disagree about how helpful antihistamines are for eczema, many patients find that they do help relieve itch," says Eichenfield. But be careful if you’re using antihistamines during the day because some can make you sleepy.
With so many ways to relieve itching, there’s no need to suffer. "If you’re really suffering with itch, or it’s keeping you up at night, see your doctor. It’s likely that your eczema is undertreated," says Eichenfield.
