Skin problems such as itching can be experienced by anyone, including children. Itching in children is indeed very disturbing and if scratched, it can cause wounds on the skin. In addition to using medications, moms can also use natural methods to relieve itching in children.
Well, before discussing how to naturally relieve itching in children, we need to know the causes of itching in children first. Let's take a look at the explanation so you won't panic when dealing with itching in children.
Causes of Itching in Children
The fact is, itching in children can be caused by various factors. Here are some common causes of itching in children that moms and dads need to know:
- Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)
- Skin allergy
- Insect Bites
- Skin infection
- Dry skin
- Contact dermatitis
- Prickly heat
- Psoriasis
- Cacar air
- Ringworm (tinea)
Meanwhile, the symptoms of itching in children include a circular rash that is itchy, scaly, and may be red or dark at the edges. By knowing the cause of itching in children, moms and dads can take the right steps to reduce the little one's discomfort and ensure they receive the necessary care.
How to Naturally Relieve Itching in Children
Before taking your little one to the doctor, moms might be able to provide temporary care and first aid to relieve the itching in children. Because itching on a child's skin can make them fussy, uncomfortable, and even unable to resist scratching it.
There are several household ingredients that can be used as natural itch remedies for children. Treating itchiness in children naturally can be an effective and safe option, especially to avoid the side effects of chemical medications. Here are seven natural ways that can help relieve itching in children quickly and safely:
1. Oatmeal Bath
Oatmeal can be an alternative option to relieve itching in children. Oatmeal has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that can alleviate itching and skin irritation. To use, mix one cup of colloidal oatmeal into warm bath water and let the child soak for 15-20 minutes.
2. Aloe Vera (Aloe Vera)
Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that can relieve itching and accelerate skin healing. Aloe vera is traditionally believed to be a natural remedy for itching. To apply it, take fresh aloe vera gel and apply it directly to the itchy skin area.
3. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is known to have good benefits for addressing skin issues such as rashes and itching. Coconut oil moisturizes the skin and has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce itching and irritation. It's easy to use, moms, just apply pure coconut oil to the itchy skin several times a day.
4. Honey
Honey has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and moisturizing properties that can soothe the skin and reduce itching. Moms only need to apply a thin layer of pure honey to the itchy skin area and leave it on for 15-20 minutes before rinsing with warm water.
5. Cold Compress
Cold compresses can reduce inflammation and soothe itchy skin. This is because the cold temperature of ice cubes can provide a numbing effect on the skin. Thus, the little one will not feel itchy for a while. To do this, wrap a few ice cubes in a clean cloth or soak a cloth in cold water, then apply it to the itchy area for 10-15 minutes.
6. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help relieve itching and cleanse the skin from irritation. Simply mix one part apple cider vinegar with one part water and apply with a cotton pad to the itchy skin area.
7. Turmeric
Turmeric is one of the natural ingredients effective for relieving itching in children. By making a turmeric paste or using a turmeric bath, moms can alleviate itching in a safe and natural way. Mix turmeric powder with a little water or coconut oil to make a paste. Apply the turmeric paste evenly on the itchy skin area. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes. Rinse with warm water and gently dry with a clean towel.
In addition to using the natural methods above, moms need to pay attention to several things. This includes the size of the little one's clothes; use loose cotton clothing to reduce friction and irritation on the skin. Make sure the little one's nails are trimmed regularly and teach them not to scratch itchy areas to prevent wounds and infections. Moms should also maintain the little one's skin moisture by using a moisturizer that is safe for children and ensure the skin stays hydrated.
For little ones still using diapers, provide soft diapers to avoid friction that can cause irritation and worsen the child's skin condition. MAKUKU, the anti-clump diaper designed with SAP (Super Absorbent Polymer) core structure technology, makes the diaper soft, reducing the risk of leaks and diaper rash.
That's how to naturally relieve itching in children that moms and dads can safely and effectively practice at home. However, if the itching does not improve or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, immediately consult a doctor for appropriate treatment. (Aq/MKK)
