Essential Oils for Itching

There are many causes for itching skin, whether it’s from bug bites, eczema, dry skin, or dandruff. Essential oils can be a great way to naturally ease itching skin. Make sure the oil you’re using is 100% pure and therapeutic grade to avoid synthetic compounds that can irritate your skin further, and always dilute your essential oils using a carrier oil or lotion. Used properly, essential oils can soothe itchy skin and hair to relive your irritation naturally.

Tea Tree Essential Oil

Tea tree oil is known for its antiseptic and antiviral properties, but it can also soothe itchiness. Because of its cleansing properties, it’s a great oil for bug bites. It dries out the irritating bacteria from bug bites or fungal rashes. These drying properties can make eczema and dry skin worse though, so opt for a gentler essential oil for those problems.

Peppermint Essential Oil

Peppermint’s menthol content gives it a cooling sensation that can soothe bug bites, poison ivy, and hives. It’s even been studied to help relive itching from burn-related scars.

Lavender Essential Oil

Since lavender essential oil is known to be a calming, relaxing oil, it can also help to calm and soothe the skin, making it great for dry, itchy skin. It’s known to be antifungal, so it can also help with irritation from athlete’s foot and ringworm. Lavender has been studied to calm the entire nervous system with some effectiveness, so diffusing it can help ease allergies and itchiness caused by anxiety and stress.

Geranium

Geranium has been used for years for its antifungal and antibacterial properties. It’s been studied for its anti-inflammatory properties that can help calm bug bites, eczema, and dry skin.

When picking an essential oil to use on itchy skin, you want to stay close to soothing, floral, light scents. Strong, warming oils like cinnamon, clove, and oregano can further irritate the skin. You want itchy skin to stay cool and calm, not heated.

How to Use Essential Oils for Itching

The easiest way to use essential oils for itching is to apply it topically. Mix the essential oil into a carrier oil with a 3% dilution to protect sensitive skin. Simply apply a little onto the area using a cotton pad. Good types of carrier oils include jojoba, sweet almond, castor, and argan.

Another option is to add a few drops into your lotion or carrier oil and spread over the skin. This way provides ultimate hydration. Make sure to use a gentle, natural lotion or oil to prevent irritation from chemicals in the products. Apply after a warm shower when your pores are open for the best results.