11 Best Anti-itch Creams for Eczema, Insect Bites, and Rashes, According to Experts


In the case of insect bites, eczema attacks from sweating, and accidental encounters with poison ivy while weeding, it's important to have the best anti-itch cream on hand that actually works and works fast. Because everyone knows there's nothing worse than an itch that can't be scratched or relieved.

Anti-itch creams can also be used to treat psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, sunburn, allergic reactions, and more, explains Anar Mikailov, M.D., F.A.A.D. Founder of Skin Intensive. While you may immediately think of hydrocortisone cream when you hear the topic, it's not the only option. "Anti-itch creams often contain an ingredient called pramoxine hydrochloride, which acts as a local anesthetic to minimize the sensation of itching or pain," explains Dr. Rebecca Marcus, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Maei MD. "Topical steroids such as hydrocortisone can relieve itching by reducing inflammation."
She adds that menthol can also help by stimulating warm and cool sensations, "thereby relieving itchiness." Even coconut oil contains this ingredient, says Dr. Mikailov, anti-itch properties are due to its moisturizing effect, while dryness can cause skin irritation.


Stock up on one of the anti-itch ointments or lotions that doctors and medical professionals love to use to ease your worries and sudden itching.


1. CeraVe Anti-itch Moisturizer

Two Ph.D. Mikhailov and Dr. Markus recommend this proven option. CeraVe has always been a popular brand among dermatologists, and this cream is no exception. "It contains pramoxine hydrochloride, which relieves itching within minutes," explains Dr. Marcus. "It also contains ceramides, which help strengthen the skin barrier and maintain the skin's first line of defense." Additionally, it has received the National Eczema Association's seal of approval and is on the market to treat sunburn and insect bites.

2. Cortizone 10 Intense Repair Cream

PhD. Marcus recommends this because it's an effective over-the-counter topical steroid that can reduce inflammation caused by sunburn and other skin irritations like poison ivy or insect bites. However, Dr. Michailov adds that it's important not to use steroid cream for more than two weeks in a row to avoid withdrawal symptoms or resistance, which can worsen irritation.

3. Benadryl Extra Strength Anti-itch Topical Gel
Merry Thornton, PA-C, board-certified physician assistant and founder of Element Medical Aesthetics, prefers this anti-itch gel. Thornton recommends the ingredient diphenhydramine to treat itching caused by insect bites and sunburn. This gel can also relieve skin irritations, scratches, rashes, and other outdoor itches caused by poison ivy.

4. TriCalm Anti-itch Hydrogel
This comes from Dr. The ointment recommended by Mikaylov contains aluminum acetate, which has an astringent effect and relieves itching. It's an easy-to-apply gel used to treat insect bites, poison oak or sumac, and even athlete's foot. It's also approved by the National Eczema Association.

5. Aveeno Maximum Strength 1% Hydrocortisone Anti-itch Cream
Like Cortisone 10, this high-potency cream contains anti-inflammatory hydrocortisone, so it should not be used for more than two weeks. However, it provides quick relief from rashes like poison oak, insect bites and sunburn, and shoppers love the added benefits of soothing colloidal oatmeal, aloe vera and vitamin E. Spider bites. "We're talking about big, red welts that itch relentlessly. A small amount goes a long way. Penetrates into skin quickly. Gets to work quickly. No bad smell," one reviewer wrote. Additionally, a tube lasts a long time.

6.Sarna Sensitive Anti-itch Lotion
This lotion contains pramoxine hydrochloride to relieve itching, is fragrance-free, and is hydrating, Dr. Marcus said. "For people with dry, sensitive skin and those with eczema, hydration is key," she adds, which makes this lotion a great solution to have on the go.

7. Curel Anti-itch Soothing Body Lotion
This affordable body lotion is safe to use from head to toe and is a savior for dry skin, allergic reactions, eczema and more. Containing an advanced ceramide complex, provitamin B5 and shea butter, it's gentle enough for daily use. “This lotion is amazing! I’m so happy to finally have found something that works,” enthuses one Amazon customer. “My eczema has subsided significantly after just one day of use. "

8. Skin-intensive body butter with ceramides and sea buckthorn berries

If you're looking to relieve the worst of that all-over body itch after a hot shower, a good hydrating body butter should do the trick. Packed with soothing ceramides and coconut oil, this Dr. Mikailov helps restore the skin barrier, thus preventing the skin from crawling or crawling. The vitamins C and E in sea buckthorn oil are called "liquid gold". Provides skin with extra protective antioxidants.

9. Dermeleve® Cream

The soothing cream "stops itching at the source," according to the brand's website, and contains 0.2 percent aluminum acetate. PhD. Mikaelov recommends it for insect bites, rashes, and general itching or irritation. Added ceramides, shea butter, hyaluronic acid, and vitamins C and E provide moisture and antioxidants to keep skin looking and feeling better than before.

10. Eucerin Eczema Relief Cream
"Eucerin Eczema Relief contains colloidal oatmeal to soothe inflamed skin, as well as ceramide 3 and licoricellone to soothe dry, itchy skin," explains Dr. Eucerin. Marcus. An 8-ounce tube costs less than $10, and in one clinical study, four out of five children were free of eczema after six months of daily use.

11.Sarna original anti-itch lotion
The original Sarna formula contained menthol and camphor, which "act as an analgesic and provide a cooling sensation" to distract from the itching and pain caused by sunburn and insect bites, Dr. Sarna explains. Marcus. It also feels extra refreshing after a hot day or after a hot shower. However, since it contains fragrance, Marcus recommends those with sensitive skin opt for the delicate version.

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