Generalized itching can be caused by a variety of factors, including aging. Dr. Arndt explains, “The skin barrier doesn’t work as well as it used to, and things that may not have irritated you before may now be absorbed in the skin and cause itching. The skin also develops a somewhat impaired immune response, a reduction in fat and blood flow, and altered…” For more insights, visit Harvard Health.

People suffering from itching with no clear cause might have unrecognized defects in their immune system. A study by researchers at the Center for the Study of Itch at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis identified immune system irregularities that could trigger the urge to scratch. For detailed information, visit Washington University.

Recent studies have identified multiple immune system cells as “key makers” for the itch sensation, including mast cells, basophils, and helper T cells. Mast cells, present in many body tissues, aid in inflammation, which is characterized by redness and swelling. For further details, see Harvard Science in the News.

Eczema, or atopic dermatitis (AD), often described as “the itch that rashes,” is a common cause of persistent itch. The itch usually starts before the rash appears and often doesn’t go away completely. Approximately 9.6 million children and 16.5 million adults in the U.S. suffer from AD. To learn more, check out Harvard Gazette.

Hormonal changes from menopause and pregnancy, as well as certain medications and skin care products, can cause skin dryness and itching, which often feels worse at night. Rarely, nighttime itching indicates a more serious condition. For more information, refer to Harvard Health.

To manage dry skin and reduce itching, it’s recommended to pat or blot the skin when drying off and apply moisturizer immediately after bathing. This helps seal in moisture and fill the spaces between skin cells. For more tips on managing dry skin, visit Harvard Health.