Itchy flakey skin.

[rita02]

Morning everyone I hope someone can help me. I have very dry itchy flakey skin all over from head to toes. It's so itchy I feel like using a razor blade to scratch it. Has anyone got any advice as to what I can use to help stop the itching. Any advice with be much appreciated. 

[Chantev]

Calamine lotion usually works for me. I used it when I itch from dry skin lupus related episodes.

[rita02 in reply to Chantev]

Thank you Chantev tried that but didn't help me much.

[MaryF]

coconut oil, melts in the hand, works well, plus a good water habit, and checking vit d, iron, b12 levels plus thyroid function.   MaryF

[rita02 in reply to MaryF]

I do have very low vit D and b12 which I am being treated for but never had iron or  thyroid tested.  I will certainly try the coconut oil. Thank you. 

[PMRpro]

Have you tried Diprobase or Double base emollients? They are used in eczema and your doctor should be able to prescribe them in the UK. They are best used immediately after a shower, while your skin is still damp, to keep the moisture in.  

[Paul_Howard Partner LUPUS UK]

Hi rita02,

We did an article about itching skin and rashes for our blog a few years ago and collected lots of people's tips. Hopefully it will have some useful suggestions for you - healthunlocked.com/lupusuk/...

[kitkat74]

@Hi rita02,

I'm so sorry to hear about your itching and dry skin.  I have had this for almost two years and have been told it's follicular eczema.  I was covered from head to toe (lost all my hair because of it)

You didn't mention if you have had a diagnosis as to what's going on with your skin.  Is it Lupus related?  The first step is to go to the GP and ask them to send you to a dermatologist and push for a biopsy to determine what is happening. 

But if your GP is like mine they will try you on different steroid creams, antihistamines for itching (didn't work for me) and whatever you do do not Under any circumstances leave without getting emollients to wash your body with and moisturisers (sorry if spelt wrong).  Also make sure they GP or dermatologist tells you how to apply both as it makes all the difference. If they don't I'm more than happy to share what I know with you.

I now use a combination of emollients, moisturisers and a bit of steroid cream to keep things under control.  As soon as you feel itchy you have to paste your skin with moisturisers, the dryer your skin becomes the more itchy you feel.  Key point do not rub the moisturiser into your skin as it will absorb quickly.  

Please keep in touch and if I can send a private message then i will otherwise let me know the outcome. 

[rita02 in reply to kitkat74]

Thank you for your advice I will get an appointment with my doctor but that will be awhile . I have tried today to exfoliate and used coconut oil which has eased it quite a bit.  We can message each other if we are following each other so I will find and follow you hope you will do the same. I will stay in touch.