(Part 2) Reddit mentions: The best itching & rash treatments

I've had KP since I was a kid and am finally getting handle on it in my 30s. My current routine is glycolic lotion twice a day, creams on the affected areas 3-4 times a day, and then physical exfoliation and using zinc or sulfur soap a couple times a week to keep the bumps at bay. But since skincare is YMMV, here's the exhaustive list of almost two decades of treatment, in case some of these other things will work for you!

100% of the items can be purchased via Amazon in the US - it's pretty much the only way I shop.

Beginner Level

If your KP has just appeared, focus on physical+chemical exfoliation and moisturizing. Look for lotions with the following ingredients:

• Glycolic Acid [[Link]] (https://www.amazon.com/GLYTONE-Exfoliating-Body-Lotion-8-4/dp/B002D48QRK/ref=sr_1_7_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1493069563&sr=1-7&keywords=glycolic+acid+lotion)
  
• Lactic Acid [[Link]] (https://www.amazon.com/AmLactin-12-Moisturizing-Lotion/dp/B000TTPZQ6/ref=pd_sim_194_9?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B000TTPZQ6&pd_rd_r=VMNB4G7XKMTDC8FCCPPW&pd_rd_w=3Hg0d&pd_rd_wg=6JKTf&psc=1&refRID=VMNB4G7XKMTDC8FCCPPW)
  
• Mandelic Acid [[Link]] (https://www.amazon.com/Dr-Wu-4712052501942-Intensive-Renewal/dp/B00KQYJ9TI/ref=sr_1_4_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1493069480&sr=1-4&keywords=mandelic+acid+serum)
  
• Azelaic Acid [[Link]] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00MSSJP9Y/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1)
  
• Salicylic Acid [[Link]] (https://www.amazon.com/Paulas-Choice-Weightless-Treatment-Antioxidants/dp/B00CS5U172/ref=sr_1_7_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1493069348&sr=1-7&keywords=paulas+choice+bha) (Or just use [Stridex Pads] (https://www.amazon.com/Stri-dex-Pads-Maximum-Strength-Pack/dp/B004WP0S74/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1493069393&sr=1-1&keywords=stridex&th=1))
  
• Retinol [[Link]] (https://www.amazon.com/Retinol-Surge-Moisturizer-Cream-2-5/dp/B00OQQLNG4/ref=sr_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1493070177&sr=8-1&keywords=body+merry+retinol)
  
• Urea [[Link]] (https://www.amazon.com/Eucerin-Skin-Intensive-Treatment-Lotion/dp/B0098YQH2O/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1493069275&sr=1-1&keywords=eucerin+urea)
  
  Paula's Choice and Derma Doctor's KP duty both work well because they combine a few of these, but you can also get Amlactin, Eucerin and Glytone which are more focused on a single ingredient. Nearly all of the Eucering, Gold Bond, Cetaphil, etc. creams that work have one of the above ingredients, so take a look at the back of the bottle or on CosDna to figure out what works best for you. Prescription creams include Carmol 40 and Ammonium Lactate in higher concentrations.
  
  Physical exfoliation includes:
  
  
• Salux cloths [[Link]] (https://www.amazon.com/Salux-Nylon-Japanese-Beauty-Yellow/dp/B007IAE5WY/ref=sr_1_2_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1493068965&sr=1-2&keywords=italy+towels)
  
• Italy towels [[Link]] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004C8DR1U/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1)
  
• Hammam or Kessa mitts [[Link]] (https://www.amazon.com/Zakias-Morocco-Kessa-Hammam-Exfoliating/dp/B0076YIPZU/ref=pd_sim_194_3?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B0076YIPZU&pd_rd_r=XC3PKNKFAM2Z88K10WDT&pd_rd_w=M6c0H&pd_rd_wg=fsKqw&psc=1&refRID=XC3PKNKFAM2Z88K10WDT)
  
• Dry brushing [[Link]] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01DHHJ9S6/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1)
  
• Sugar scrubs [[Link]] (https://www.amazon.com/Tree-Hut-Sugar-Scrub-Moroccan/dp/B01EXDOQZY/ref=sr_1_2?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1493069250&sr=1-2-spons&keywords=sugar+scrub&psc=1)
  
• Salt scrubs [[Link]] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01F7WA2X0/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1)
  
• St. Ives wash [[Link]] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00J4YY4DM/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1)
  
• Lush Buffy Scrub [[Link]] (http://www.lushusa.com/body/body-butters/buffy/02127.html)
  
  My dermatologist also recommended moisturizing CONSTANTLY, which really helped smoothe my arms. According to his instructions, "constantly" meant that I needed to be able to feel the lotion on my skin 24/7 for at least 3 weeks, which for me meant a new layer of cream every hour or two. Pretty much any moisturizing lotion or cream will do. I'm partial to [CeraVe Moisturizing Cream] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B013GDK3SQ/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1) (creams are less watered down than lotions, and this one drys down wonderfully, leaveing my skin feeling buttery but not sticky). Lush dream cream and Aveeno are also faves.
  
  Intermediate Level
  
  If a bit of exfoliation and moisture aren't working, you might want to consider if there are other skin conditions making your KP worse. For example, it turned out for me I had some fungal skin issues that made my KP bumps more inflamed. Topical steroids can help, but use with care as they can cause skin thinning. Try adding something with the following ingredients in to see if any of the following work. Also talk with your derm about getting a mild prescription treatment that might include an antibacterial or steroid component.
  
  
• Sulfur (typically sulfur soap, although you can also buy some creams) [[Link]] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00685KUGA/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1)
  
• 2% Pyrithione Zinc (ZnP) (In [soap] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00MWB0ZGE/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&th=1) or [cream] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00N434AWO/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1) form)
  
• Tea tree oil [[Link]] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B017L8ZUJE/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1)
  
• Clotrimazole [[Link]] (https://www.amazon.com/Family-Care-Clotrimazole-Anti-Fungal-Cream/dp/B01K51YPCC/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1493069707&sr=1-1&keywords=clotrimazole)
  
• Hydrocortisone [[Link]] (https://www.amazon.com/Cortizone-Cream-Maximum-Strength-Anti-Itch/dp/B001AZTD52/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1493069776&sr=1-1&keywords=hydrocortisone)
  
  As others have mentioned, sunlight also helps. Either give yourself 15 minutes of sun a day or look into UV treatments.
  
  Finally, consider dietary factors – for me cutting out dairy, sugar, and gluten when I really want crystal clear skin makes a big difference. Adding healthy oils and fats to your diet can also improve skin quality.
  
  Advanced Level
  
  I not only have KP, but years of scarring and redness (Post Inflammatory Erythema, or PIE) from picking at the bumps when I was younger. Laser treatments have almost 100% gotten rid of this and made my arms the smoothest and clearest they've been in almost two decades. However, these are pricey (for me, ~$200 a treatment and it took 4) and a serious time commitment. But if nothing else works, consider it.
  
  Other Tips
  
  
• If you pick, use a hydrocolloid bandage right away to make things heal faster.
  
• Vitamin C, niacinamide, honey/propolis, rosehip oil/rosewater, and all those other things this sub and /r/AsianBeauty love can really help reduce redness.
  
• Avoid overly hot showers, as this can be dehydrating. On the other hand, drink lots of water to hydrate internally.
  
• There are a ton of home/natural remedies out there, including using apple cider vinegar and coconut oil, none of which worked for me. These are seriously YMMV. Apple cider vinegar is low Ph, so if that helps, try using a [low Ph cleanser] (https://www.amazon.com/CeraVe-Foaming-Facial-Cleanser-Ounce/dp/B01N1LL62W/ref=sr_1_2_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1493070492&sr=1-2&keywords=cerave+foaming+facial+cleanser) or [Ph adjusting toner] (https://www.amazon.com/MIZON-Daily-Clean-Toner-Fluid/dp/B00LUU42NU/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1493070538&sr=1-1&keywords=ph+adjusting+toner), which might be less harsh. Similarly, coconut oil is antimicrobial and moisturizing, so give it a try and if it works, investigate whether you need more moisture or antibacterial/antifungal ingredients in your other products.
  
• Last but not least, don't sweat it! KP is incredibly common and nothing to worry about. I spent years being super paranoid about my arms and keeping them covered up, only to discover none of my friends even noticed my skin or cared at all.
  

If you're really going out for awhile, consider a camelback instead of water bottles. Easier to access, and it serves double duty as your bag. LA Police Gear has some nice options that are more budget friendly than the brick-and-mortar sporting goods stores

On the topic of bags, you're probably not carrying a ton of weight, but a decent backpack will distribute that load better than a messenger bag. That's a good thing, in the long run.

Proper shoes make a world of difference if you're walking more than a couple miles. Not just blisters, but sore shins, knees, etc. Basically, you're hiking, with a phone. Treat it like that, and use the same lessons.

Depending on your area, I would add bug spray. This is the one I like. Comes in multiple sizes, but uses a different active ingredient than most sprays. I've used it while wading miles through literal swamps during the height of mosquito season and come through fine, which is remarkable. Doesn't seem to help with hornets, though.

I'd argue that a first aid kit should be higher on the list, considering how many novice hikers staring at their phones this game will have. Blister treatment is a must-add.

I like that you included defensive options, but you must also include situational awareness. Pepper spray does you no good if it's at the bottom of your bag and someone strolls up behind you while you're staring at your phone. Some brief thoughts on options: Pepper spray is good, but it's not so fun indoors. Also, if you can get a trainer (no capsaicin) to practice with, do it. It's not completely intuitive. There is a big difference between a Taser (shoots barbs at a distance, can continually shock) and a contact stun gun (requires being pressed into a person, and stops the pain as soon as it loses contact). I think the former is great and the latter kinda blows. Knives are not an advisable defensive option, and neither are those pseudo-brass knuckle doohickeys. Guns are great when carried legally, but I'd rather not get into those politics here.

FRAK PSORIASIS.

I've got it bad. I have three favorite things:

1. Psoriasin. It's icky yellow goo that smells very strongly, but used every day takes away the scales. If you have any open spots, don't get this in it until they close up.
   
   
2. Hydrocortizone Cream. When you go to the dermatologist, they give you a super strength version of this OTC stuff. It is for the itchiness, and really helps. But, I'm pretty sure it is a steroid, so you can't use it every 5 minutes.
   
   
3. Burt's Bees Hand Salve. This is a Godsend. Works 100x better than lotion when you're itchy and uncomfortable. Very oily but AMEN this stuff helps WITHOUT burning.
   

The hikes are perfectly doable for the majority of fitness levels. It's not something I would take my grandparents to, but I think anyone in moderate shape will be just fine. The hardest part is the heat and humidity, so make sure you stay hydrated. Other than that, it's really just watching were you step so you don't trip over roots or sink your boots into mud. In terms of the specific tour you will be going on, I cannot give you details about the activities and how exhausting the days might be, because I'm not your tour guide and I don't know where you will be staying. Every lodge and every tour is different. You will need to reach out to the person actually running your tour to get those details. If you have any say in what you get to do, request that you go out in a canoe one night to listen to the insects and see the stars. It's absolutely breathtaking.

I brought two light weight long sleeved shirts and two pairs of long pants. If you're trying to pack light, one of each would be fine, though I appreciated being able to wear something that wasn't super sweaty (although my clothing was all quick dry). Unless you're rolling around in the ground after it rains, I don't know why you would get any more mud on you than a regular hike. This also goes to your question about shoes - most lodges will provide you with rubber boots to wear during the hikes on land (that's how easy they are - you can do it wearing rubber fisherman's boots), and you tuck your pants into the boots. That way you just hose the boots off at the end and you're good to go.

I personally bought the insect repellent on Amazon, because my travel doctor recommended a specific kind and that's where I was able to find it. If you're able to find something to treat your clothing with in your local market, then you can buy it there. If you can't find it in person, by it online. You need to treat your clothes before you travel, and you leave them outside for a few hours to dry prior to packing. I used this for my clothing and this is the lotion I brought with me for my skin.

I spent about 35-40 hours sourcing my first 2 weeks. I would literally spend 3-4 hours in one store scanning everything. For example, I went to a Target and spent 4 hours scanning toys. After two weeks, I learned what to scan. I look for items that were at least 50-75% off. I do buy items that are retail price, but you have to look for the trends on Amazon.

Yes, I feel like I needed to scan every product. It's a good way to learn what sells and what doesn't. You'll be surprised to see what items are priced pretty high and sell fast.

I feel like I have some sort niche in beauty and beauty and health. That's where I find most of my income right now. For example, I picked up this http://www.amazon.com/Zanfel-Poison-Ivy-Wash-2-pack/dp/B0000Y3GKC/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=undefined&sr=8-2&keywords=zanfel not to long ago for $3. Sold them as a 2-pack for $50 FBA. No FBA sellers. Rank has been 40k-60k last 3 months. Only cost me $6 to purchase for 2. I bought about 10 from different Walgreens. 5 2-pack x $50 FBA = $250

If you don't want to get rid of them for yourself... get rid of them for your family. They are EASILY spread between family members, especially if you're itching them... as you clearly are.

If you're a girl... they can spread to your vagina, and cause a whole lot of other problems. Either way they can actually eventually spread to your urethra and cause other problems like frequent urination, itching and swelling.

If you go into the doctor they can prescribe a medication that you will take when you pick it up, as well as 2 weeks from the day you initially took the first medication.

GOOD NEWS!!: Over the Counter Pinworm Treatment, you don't even have to go to the doctor. Reeses Pinworm Medicine
as well as Pin-X

For the love of all that is good, please go to amazon and get one... if you can't afford it, send me a private message with a link to your amazon wishlist (that has your blocked out address etc) and I would be more then happy to send one to you.

Just thinking about this makes me itch all over.

I have 0- blood which is proven that mosquitoes will preferentially seek. Add to that, I am a highly allergic person and have sensitive skin.

Here's what I do to help prevent misery. Might be hard with a toddler, but any of it you can integrate might help.

1. As soon as I notice a mosquito bite, I wash it with soap and cold water.
   
   
2. Then, I ice it. I do this by just holding an ice cube on it until the ice cube melts, but one of those little baby soft ice packs might be good for this.
   
   
3. I only use hydrocortisone or benadryl spray right before bed, because I really want it to help me not be itchy when I am trying to sleep.
   
   
4. Otherwise, I dab the bite ocassionally with either this After Bite or with a mixture of vinegar and cool water. Note: if the bites have been scratched open, this will sting.
   
   If I can get to a bite pretty quickly, the combination of (1) and (2) usually means that bite never swells up and never bothers me.

My cheeks looked just like that and I started using this and I really recommend trying it. It’s not crazy expensive and worth a shot. I wish you the best of luck!

I've tried making my own, but they love me too much. I wake up with 5-6 new bites when I don't coat myself in bug spray. I've been using Buzz Away Extreme, which was effective until recently when I started getting bit again at night even when coated in it. I've been unhappily resorting to DEET until I can find something clean that works, but so far no luck.

This sub is the reason I finally stopped lurking.

It's not a cure, but I use this stuff. It's pretty relieving. When the urge is overwhelming it feels like fire to put it on. Wonderful, amazing fire.

I was down to 1/4 eyebrows on both sides, but now they're full again. It's a daily application but isn't very noticeable as it dries clear. Basically it makes the tingle go away so the urge isn't there, but the habit can still cause trouble.

I have some scaring on my forearms (little white dots) but I have not had any scarring left over on my legs, back, or stomach. That probably has more to do with the fact that those areas were constantly covered and I never wore sunscreen so my arms were always exposed to the sun. They are barely barely noticeable on my arms.

For the percentage, I've always gotten 1%. I'm not sure what all is available in your country, but it may also be listed as hydrocortisone cream. I'm currently using Cortizone-10 for my thighs, and I've used Aveeno Anti-Itch Cream. They are both 1%, but the Cortizone-10 has Aloe in it.

As for the scratching, I completely understand your pain. It would feel absolutely amazing to give in and scratch. It would literally give me chills it would feel so good, and then I'd look down to see my nails all bloody because I was literally gouging my skin.

If possible, try to wear as little clothing as possible to keep things from touching it and try a few different things to get the itch out if you absolutely cannot stand to not touch. Something that works for me (well... sometimes) is a pretend itch. I'll literally hold my hand over the itchy area and move my hand as if i'm scratching it, but I'm really scratching the air. I've also try blowing on it, cooling it, etc. Hydrocortisone cream should help. It is an anti-iching agent, but you have to let it dry. I know sometimes I'd get so impatient searching for immediate relief. It has to absorb into the skin to start working.

I haven't tried it, but it looks like there is a Benadryl Itch Stopping Cream. I know Benadryl is meant for allergies, so this might work. It has a histamine in it.

Also, check your local drug stores. We have cortisone cream in the US in every one of them, and in grocery stores, and convenient stores, etc. You may be able to get it quicker than through Amazon.

Get some of this. My guy had the same exact issues with consistent paw chewing and using this (initially once per day, for 14 days straight...now once every 48-72 hours). Make sure to spray good right in between the pads. I think it also helps after it’s been sprayed on liberally to work it in a little bit by massaging his feet....if he lets you lol.

Anything with zymox in the name has been a godsend for myself and my pup. No more 2am scratch extravaganzas for us!

Have you been to a Dr. or a Derm yet? They may be able to prescribe you something and give you more ideas to help soothe the itch.

The longest mine has ever lasted was a week and I did the above methods along with hydrocortisone. I had luck a few weeks ago with Aveeno Baby Eczema lotion too.

I've heard Caladryl or Calamine lotion may also help, at least from what I've read while trying to search for quick remedies.

No experience on the procedure for me but aloe is an absolute lifesaver for me for skin maladies, for something a little stronger I’d say grab some topical analgesic or anti inflammatory hope you feel better!

Edit for shitty links!

I am anxiously excited to start the RAOA School of Mischief & Merriment. I do, however, feel that I am not quite prepared. I keep looking at the list of supplies needed. Perhaps you could assist me, that is if you don't mind.


I will most definitely need my book, that is if I want to keep track of all the spells and potions. That class will surely give me anxiety, lol.

I have heard that many suffer from Morthy-itis. Perhaps I should bring this so I can open a necessary adult beverage to pour into said container.

I have heard that the professors like us working like house-elves, so I should bring along this just in case.

For those cold nights, this will keep my head in the game.

They're good at getting their nose into trouble, maybe they can teach me a few things.

Oh, I cannot forget these. They will surely keep me hidden and invisible from any pesky bugs.



Answers may be out of order. I also stuck with things that were currently on my wishlist.

Eat more garlic....seriously, it does work. Not completely, but it will limit the bites to just the most determined little buggers. Also...consider long pants. Some people are just too pretty to the bugs to go out uncovered.

You might also try some of this. I tried it once for the heck of it and found it actually worked better than Off - and smelled better and wasn't poisonous like Off. But that could also be a regional thing. Our mosquitoes don't like it, but yours might not care. I've found differences in what works depending on where I am.

It sounds like you are extremely sensitive! It's not unheard of for people to react to small amounts like this for instance: from poison ivy smoke that comes off a fire where people are burning leaves. It is possible that there is some trace urushiol from the outside of your sleeves, that was carried under your sleeve by the water yes. I had a bad bout this summer, and this remedy really numbed it and helped it dry out quickly! https://www.rootcha.com/poisonivyremedy/ . Poor thing! There are also some post contact wipes I found on amazon that I stock now that we're living in the woods that seem to be fending off rashes. But that's only if you can get to them before an hours out. They also have pre contact wipes? Not sure if they work, but here' s a link. https://www.amazon.com/Towelettes-Pre-Contact-Solution-Dispenser-83662/dp/B011P64UQM/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1542824912&sr=8-4&keywords=poison+ivy+wipes

Best of luck!

Have you seen the doc? Steroids can help. There are also special soaps formulated to ease poison ivy that you can use, a bit pricy, but worth it. And, of course oatmeal/Aveeno soaks.

My husband is super sensitive to it and managed to get it three times on our last property, and this really helped.

This is an example of the soap, but any pharmacy will have similar over the counter soap.

There is this one gel made my bandaid and it is amazing for mosquito bites!

edit: Benadryl Children's Itch Cooling Gel 3 oz (Pack of 3) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001N0LDZW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_IFWwzb88E4N7H

I don't think it's always children's, it's definitely cheaper if you can find it at Walgreens or CVS and the cooking part is really the relieving part!

StingEze! It is a miracle worker for swelling and itching. Very cheap and easy to find as well!

Here you go... StingEze

Caladryl

https://www.amazon.com/Caladryl-Lotion-Calamine-Reliever-6-Ounce/dp/B005631726

They work well as a regular wiping thing. Have hydrocortisone and witch hazel in them, which regular wipes don't.

But for worse booty hole protrusions, get thyself some of this (any 1% hydrocortisone cream) and dab it all over after wiping. Outside only, not in. Tightens things up, helps keep everything where it should be.

But if things are seriously bad with the ol' chocolate starfish, go see a doctor instead of listening to some dude off the internet.

This shit works wonders. I use it on my pubic area; might be kinda weird on the face.

http://www.amazon.com/Cortizone-10-Strength-Crme-Boxes-Pack/dp/B002CVV1HQ/