Itchy Skin in Children: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Highlights

• Itchy skin (pruritus) in children may appear normal or have a rash.
• Common causes of itchy skin include eczema, psoriasis, allergic reactions, burns, infections, and certain medical conditions.
• Treatment may involve emollients (moisturisers), corticosteroid creams, or antihistamines.
• Prevent itchy skin by applying moisturiser daily, wearing loose cotton clothing, taking lukewarm, short showers, and avoiding overheating.
• Severe itching can cause skin infections, disturb sleep, and cause distress.

In This Article

• What is itchy skin?
• What are symptoms of itchy skin?
• What causes itchy skin?
• When should I see my doctor?
• How is itchy skin diagnosed?
• How is itchy skin treated?
• Can itchy skin be prevented?
• Tips to break the itch-scratch-itch cycle
• Complications of itchy skin
• Tools And Assistance

What is itchy skin?

Itchy skin, or pruritus, is common in children and can be uncomfortable. It is usually a symptom of skin disorders, infections, or other conditions. The skin may appear normal or may have a rash.

What are symptoms of itchy skin?

If your child has itchy skin, they may also experience:

• Rash (mild or severe)
• Dry or bumpy skin
• Discomfort or burning sensations
• Worsening itchiness at night
• Itching in specific parts of the body or all over

Children may scratch to relieve itching, leading to skin damage, known as the “itch-scratch-itch” cycle, which can make the skin thicker, scaly, and red.

What causes itchy skin?

Itchy skin is often caused by skin conditions or infections, but may also result from allergic reactions, burns, some medicines, or medical conditions.

Common skin conditions that cause itchy skin in children:

• Atopic dermatitis (eczema)
• Contact dermatitis
• Hives (urticaria)

Infections that cause itchy skin:

• Bacterial infections (e.g., impetigo)
• Viral infections (e.g., chickenpox)
• Parasitic infections (e.g., scabies)
• Fungal infections (e.g., tinea)

Other causes of itchy skin:

• Burns (scalds, sunburns)
• Allergic reactions
• Insect bites
• Some medications
• Certain medical conditions

When should I see my doctor?

Consult your doctor if your child has itchy skin and experiences any of the following:

• Sudden onset of itching
• Distress or impact on quality of life
• Signs of infection (red or warm skin)
• Fever and rash

In case of a serious allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing or swelling of the face, lips, or tongue, call for emergency help and follow the allergy action plan if available.

How is itchy skin diagnosed?

To diagnose itchy skin, a doctor may:

• Examine the skin and ask about symptoms and medical history
• Take a swab if an infection or infestation is suspected
• Recommend blood, urine, or stool tests if a general health problem is suspected

How is itchy skin treated?

Treatment options may include:

• Creams: Moisturisers, steroid creams, or ointments
• Oral medications: Antihistamines or other medications

Pharmacists can recommend fragrance-free, dye-free, and preservative-free moisturisers.

Can itchy skin be prevented?

Preventing itchy skin depends on its cause. Tips to prevent itching include:

• Moisturise with recommended emollients
• Avoid soaps, bubble baths, and shower gels that dry out the skin
• Take short, lukewarm showers
• Wear loose cotton clothing
• Avoid overheating
• Keep fingernails short to reduce damage from scratching
• Protect from sunburn (Be SunSmart)

If the itch is caused by a specific condition, treating that condition can help prevent itching.

Tips to break the itch-scratch-itch cycle

• Deep breathing, relaxation techniques
• Distraction (playing a game, massage)
• Apply a soft, cool, and wet towel to the itchy area
• Pat or pinch the itchy skin instead of scratching

Complications of itchy skin

Frequent scratching can lead to sores that may become infected. Itchy skin can also affect your child’s sleep, mood, school performance, and social interactions.

Tools And Assistance

For more information on managing itchy skin and its treatment, consult healthcare professionals or visit trusted health resources.