My skin is so itchy – what ingredients are best for relief?

Finding a solution can be surprisingly simple. ‘The most common cause of persistent itchy skin is dry skin, which really just needs a good moisturiser,’ says Sweta Rai, consultant dermatologist and spokesperson for the British Association of Dermatologists. ‘Generally, you’ll want an oilier product in winter. As a rule, if you use a lotion in summer, you need a cream in winter; if you use a cream in summer, use an ointment in winter.’ She adds that if your skin needs soothing, mentholbased products and even keeping your home cool can help. Eczema, allergies, medication and new skincare products can also cause itchy skin, and while rare, itchy skin can be linked to medical problems such as kidney failure and thyroid dysfunction. ‘If your skin is wellmoisturised, you’ve got no rash and the itch is severe enough to wake you at night, you must see a doctor immediately,’ urges Dr Rai. You know the drill: safety first.