Why does itchy skin feel relieved when splashed with hot water?

hot water opens the pores

Why does itchy skin feel relieved when splashed with hot water?
Hot water makes your body release it own natural histamine's. It works very well for relieving the itch of poisons. But if your skin is itching because of dry skin, the hot water will relieve it but will make your skin even dyer and I would suggest a very good lotion.
Reply:The pain from the hot water takes your mind off the itch?
Reply:Itching is a relatively low level "pain" that is typically propogated by some irritant - like posion oak or overly-dry skin. Splashing hot water on the area distracts the nervous system from the itching stimuli...for a bit. Unfortunately warm or hot water also activates histamines which are mediators for...you guessed it, itching. Also hot water tends to elimate naturally occurring oils on your skin...another common cause of itching.





My advice, that while warm or hot water might feel good for a minute, in the long run you are going to be MORE affected by the itching. There are plenty of anti-itch topical ointments and preparations that can be helpful - some with benzocaine (Solarcaine), some with mild steroids (hydrocortisone), some with antihistamines (Benadryl), some just are moisturizing (Aveeno), while others have menthols (Gold Bond) to stimulate the nervous system (like the warm water). Aloe Vera products are also touted as being effective for soothing skin itching.





Unless it is really annoying, I might just try to ignore it and let the problem naturally resolve. If it is annoying try one of the topical agents I mentioned above. If these are not effective after a couple of days you may want to proceed to your doctor for additonal evaluation and treatment of the underlying condition.





Good luck.