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People may be able to prevent these but should speak with a dermatologist to discuss any concerns. Share on PinterestAli Majdfar/Getty ImagesDry skin is often the cause of itching after taking a shower. The water from the shower can strip away the skin’s natural oils, causing dryness and itching. Treating these symptoms may not always be as simple as applying a lotion or moisturizer. Sometimes, dry, sensitive skin needs additional care to alleviate the irritation and dryness that cause the itch. It is also important to watch for other symptoms, such as peeling, scaling, or rashes, as these may indicate a condition that needs treatment. Keep reading to learn more about the potential causes of itching after a shower and how to treat them. What does seasonal change have to do with it People living in areas with seasonal weather changes may develop a dry, itchy rash during the summer and winter. Heat If the outdoor air is hot and humid, this can result in dry skin that is easily irritated. Other possible skin issues that may develop as a result of the summer weather include:Heat rash: The heat may cause itchy bumps to appear on the skin. People refer to this rash as heat rash or prickly heat. Sun rash: Patches or bumps that itch or burn may appear on sun-exposed areas of the skin.Sun allergy: People can develop hives after sun exposure due to sensitivity to the sun. Certain medications can increase this sensitivity. They include ketoprofen and tetracycline antibiotics, such as doxycycline and minocycline. Sunburn: If a person gets a sunburn, their skin may be irritated, itchy, and damaged. Possible treatments and remedies People can take steps to prevent or minimize these conditions. These steps include:washing the body using fresh, clean water and a mild, gentle cleanser or body washapplying sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 before going outdoorstaking showers and baths in warm waterapplying moisturizer after every shower and bathturning up the thermostat if the air conditioning makes the home too drywearing loose-fitting clothes made of cotton and sun-protective items Cold Winter rash refers to dehydrated skin that occurs in the winter season. Possible causes include:cold temperatureslow humidity levelscentral heating Winter rash may cause itching, inflammation, and rough patches on certain body areas. In some cases, it may spread across multiple parts of the body. The most commonly affected areas are the hands and arms, which typically get more exposure to cold temperatures. Possible treatments and remedies The main treatments for winter rash include rehydrating moisturizers, oils, and creams. As with heat rash treatments, a person should avoid harsh soaps or cleansers and use warm water when washing. People may also benefit from using a humidifier in their home to counteract the effects of central heating. Causes of itching after a shower Many things can cause the skin to feel itchy after taking a shower or bath. Here are some of the most common reasons for itching after a shower: Dry skin Dry skin lacks moisture and may feel tight or itchy, especially after a shower. Cleansers, soap, and water can remove the skin’s natural oils that keep it supple and prevent dryness. When a person takes a hot shower, the soap, and water strip away the skin’s oils, which can cause the skin to feel tight and itchy. In extreme cases, the skin may even crack or bleed. Prevention The best way to prevent itchy skin after a shower is to apply moisturizer immediately after towel drying. A heavy moisturizer, such as a cream, oil, or ointment, can help seal in moisture if a person applies it while the skin is still slightly damp. People with very dry or sensitive skin should read the product label carefully before using a moisturizer. Some products can make itching worse, as they contain irritating ingredients or cause allergic reactions. In general, avoiding products containing fragrances, menthol, and alcohol is best, as these can cause further dryness, irritation, and itching. Learn more about the causes, treatment, and prevention of dry skin on the face. Eczema Eczema refers to skin inflammation that can lead to itching and excessive dryness. It is a chronic condition that can also cause a rash or bumps on the skin. Eczema may feel even more itchy and uncomfortable after bathing or showering when the skin lacks natural oils. Scented body washes, soaps, and the hot water from the shower may also trigger itching. Prevention People with eczema may need to use hypoallergenic products and apply moisturizer throughout the day. A dermatologist may be able to provide recommendations on which specific products to use. Learn about 12 of the best natural remedies for eczema. Reactions to skin care products Many people enjoy using scented cleansers, soaps, and hair products in the shower. However, these products can trigger allergic reactions in some people, leading to itching and other symptoms. This is known as contact dermatitis. The National Eczema Association explains that fragrance is one of the ingredients most likely to cause a skin reaction. Prevention If someone finds that moisturizing alone does not relieve itching, they may need to switch shower products. They can try using only fragrance-free cleansers and moisturizers and see whether the itching goes away. Learn about the best moisturizers for sensitive skin. Reaction to laundry products Scented laundry products could also lead to post-shower itching, especially if someone uses scented products on their towels. Toweling off after bathing could transfer some of the fragrances from a laundry soap or fabric softener to the skin. This can lead to itching and irritation if a person has an allergy or sensitivity to the product. Prevention People with sensitive or itchy skin may wish to avoid using laundry products that contain fragrance or dye to wash their towels or clothes. Treatment and remedies People who notice itching after taking a shower may find relief by following the steps below:Keeping showers as short and cool as possible: Using cooler water for shorter periods can help avoid stripping the skin of its natural protective oils.Showering no more than once daily: More showers mean more chances to strip the skin’s natural oils. According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, children may be able to shower less frequently than adults — about once or twice per week.Avoiding long, hot baths: These can dry the skin. A person can also consider adding colloidal oatmeal or bath oils when taking a bath to help moisturize the skin.Refraining from scratching the skin: Scratching the skin can irritate and injure it, making the itching worse.Avoiding using washcloths, scrubs, or harsh sponges: These may irritate the skin in the same way as scratching.Using fragrance-free moisturizing cleansers or soaps: People can look for hypoallergenic products or those suitable for eczema and sensitive skin. Drying the skin by patting it gently: It is important not to rub the skin with a towel, as this can cause irritation and remove the skin’s natural oils.Applying a heavy, fragrance-free moisturizer or ointment: It is best to do this immediately after patting the skin dry.Avoiding applying large amounts of lathering soaps or cleansers: Lathering agents can worsen dry skin, and they are not necessary for cleaning the skin effectively.Using a humidifier: This can be especially helpful in dry climates or throughout the winter months. Low humidity can exacerbate dry skin.Avoiding fragrances in laundry detergent and fabric softener: These ingredients may get on towels and clothing and cause itching after a shower.Avoiding using products that contain retinoids: Retinoids regulate epithelial cell growth, but they can be an irritant and worsen dry skin. Unless a doctor has prescribed them, people should avoid using retinoids. Retinoids include:retinoladapalenetretinoinLimiting or excluding products that contain alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA): AHA is an ingredient that may cause burning or itching on dry or sensitive skin. If, after following these steps, there is no sign of improvement or relief from itching after a shower, it is best to speak with a healthcare professional. Learn about natural home remedies for dry skin. When to consult a doctor Usually, a person can treat mild itching after taking a shower by following the steps above and taking care to keep the skin moisturized. In some cases, however, itching is not related to the skin itself. A health condition such as nerve damage or multiple sclerosis may cause the nerves in the skin to be overactive. This can cause itching without a rash or another obvious cause. Itching from nerve-related health conditions may lead to excessive scratching, which can irritate the skin and make itching worse. It may also cause minor wounds that make an infection possible. Sometimes, a mental health condition can cause a person to scratch their skin excessively. Some mental health conditions that may cause this include:depressionanxietyobsessive-compulsive disorderexcoriation, a skin-picking disorder If a person suspects that they have a nerve-related or mental health condition, they should speak with a medical professional. Summary Most people will be able to treat post-shower itching by using moisturizers, lotions, and other home remedies. However, if the itching persists after trying these remedies, a person may wish to speak with a healthcare professional to rule out other, more serious health conditions. Last medically reviewed on August 25, 2022DermatologyAtopic Dermatitis / Eczema 4 sourcescollapsedMedical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and draws only from peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. We avoid using tertiary references. We link primary sources — including studies, scientific references, and statistics — within each article and also list them in the resources section at the bottom of our articles. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.12 summer skin problems you can prevent. (n.d).https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-secrets/routine/prevent-summer-skin-problemsFragrance and perfume allergy and eczema FAQ. (n.d.).https://nationaleczema.org/fragrances-perfumes-eczema-allergy/How often do children need to take a bath? (n.d.).https://www.aad.org/skin-care-basics/child-bathingOverview: Atopic eczema. (2019).https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/atopic-eczema/FEEDBACK:Medically reviewed by Debra Sullivan, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., CNE, COI — By Jennifer Berry — Updated on August 25, 2022 Latest newsWhat sets 'SuperAgers' apart? 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