Itching is a common irritation of the skin that makes a person want to scratch the itchy area. It can occur anywhere on the body, and can be very frustrating and uncomfortable. Itching may occur on a small part of the body, for example around the area of an insect bite or sting, or it can affect the whole body, such as with an allergic reaction. Sometimes spots or rashes may be present around the area that is itchy, or they may cause the itchiness itself. It is quite common to find that after you’ve scratched an itch, that the itch becomes more persistent (itchier) and you get into a cycle of itching and scratching. This can be painful and can sometimes lead to an infection if the skin is broken. If itching persists for more than 48 hours, see your doctor. How to relieve itching To relieve itching, take the following steps: try not to scratch the area — keep your nails short to prevent breaking the skin if you do scratch a cool bath or shower may help to soothe the itching — gently pat yourself dry with a clean towel, but do not rub or use the towel to scratch yourself avoid perfumed skin care products try to wear loose cotton clothing, which can help prevent you overheating and making the itch worse — avoid fabrics which irritate your skin, like wool or scratchy fabrics an ice pack may relieve the itching but should not be placed directly against the skin — you can make an ice pack by using a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a clean cloth speak to a pharmacist or your doctor for further advice on treatments that may help, such as calamine lotion, gels or sprays containing aluminium sulphate, a mild corticosteroid cream or antihistamine medicines if you are in pain, get advice on suitable pain-relieving medicines from a pharmacist or your doctor.