This unrelentingly itchy experience can lead to sleep loss for several days as the damaged skin heals from sunburn.
This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing.
Reproduced with permission from DermNetdermnetnz.org2023.
Reproduced with permission from © DermNetdermnetnz.org2023.
What Are the Symptoms of Hell’s Itch?
Hell’s itch appears assunburned skin24 to 72 hours after sun exposure.
Symptoms that people report experiencing include:
What Causes the Unrelenting Itch?
One theory revolves around overactive nerve signals between the skin and the brain.
However, more research is needed.
Risk Factors to Consider
Sun exposureis the main risk factor for hell’s itch.
Otherwise, there’s limited data on who it’s most likely to affect.
Also, people outside in higher altitudes may experience more intense sun exposure.
How Is Hell’s Itch Diagnosed?
There currently isn’t a clear diagnostic process for hell’s itch.
A healthcare provider could assess your skin and help determine if you are experiencing hell’s itch.
Treatment may be offered for severe or painfulsunburnand resulting skin irritation.
Staying extra hydrated during this time will help preventdehydrationand the development of any additional uncomfortable symptoms.
Peppermint Oil
When applied topically,peppermint oilcould help ease a severe sunburn.
Oatmeal Bath
Anoatmeal bathcan help soothe the skin.
Oatmeal contains anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties.
Baking Soda Paste
Baking sodacould provide temporary relief to itchy, severely sunburned skin.
Baking soda can be abrasive, so avoid using it on raw or fragile skin.
If the itchiness is widespread, consider bathing in this mixture.
Cool Compress
Cooling the skin with compresses may provide relief from hell’s itch.
OTC Topical Ointments
Over-the-counter (OTC) topical ointments may help with hell’s itch and sunburn.
Look forcortisone creamsto reduce inflammation and creams with vitamins C or E to help mitigate further skin.
NSAIDs
OTC pain relievers, particularlynon-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs(NSAIDs), may help hell’s itch.
These medications can relieve pain by reducing inflammation.
Check with a healthcare provider with any questions about their use.
What Not to Do
Scratching
Scratching your itchy skin can make matters worse.
It can lead to tiny tears in the skin that allow bacteria to enter, causing bleeding and infection.
Still, it’s best to stay away from these when you’re experiencing hell’s itch.
Experts say using these products can trigger an allergic reaction in some people and may worsen the sunburn.
What’s the Outlook?
Limited clinical data is available on hell’s itch, but it feels like a short-term experience.
How to Prevent Hell’s Itch
Preventing hell’s itch comes down to avoiding a sunburn.
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