We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. Allergies Best Anti-Itch Creams to Relieve Itchy Skin On the Spot The best anti-itch creams that will reduce inflammation and alleviate any itch caused by minor skin ailments. By Danielle Zoellner Updated on October 05, 2023 Medically reviewed by Susan Bard, MD Fact checked by Rich Scherr Print Verywell Health / Kevin Liang Scratching an unrelenting itch is frustrating, especially when nothing seems to alleviate the symptoms. One cause of itchiness (also known as pruritus) and irritation is dry skin, with the symptoms indicating the barrier needs necessary hydration. People also experience itchy skin because they have bug bites, a rash, or a skin condition like eczema or psoriasis. When looking for the best anti-itch cream for your skin ailment, it is important to first understand why your skin is itching. From there, you can select the type of anti-itch cream that will work best for the cause of your itching. It’s important to note that while these over-the-counter products will assist with alleviating itch, these creams do not always cure skin conditions, especially if they are moderate or severe. For best results, experts recommend using the anti-itch cream as needed for two weeks before seeking additional help if the itching persists. We spoke with board-certified dermatologists about the best ingredients and how to match the right type of anti-itch cream to your symptoms. We evaluated dozens of products for their active ingredients and potency, application methods, and texture. We also had a member of our Medical Expert Board review this article for medical accuracy in regards to the types of anti-itch creams, how to match the best one for the root cause of your itching, evaluating active ingredients, and what to look for. The Different Types of Anti-Itch Creams Steroid creams: These utilize ingredients like hydrocortisone and are known for reducing inflammation in the area applied. Typically, these creams work well for individuals who experience eczema or psoriasis because the creams target symptoms caused by those skin conditions. Hydrocortisone is a popular steroid included in anti-itch creams because of its effectiveness in reducing irritation and alleviating symptoms related to itchiness. Non-steroid creams: Instead of including steroid-based ingredients like hydrocortisone, these creams use other ingredients to address underlying dryness (which can lead to itchy skin), such as natural oatmeal or ceramides. If you find that your itch is caused by dryness and flakes, then a non-steroid cream that incorporates hydrating ingredients would best address your symptoms. Antihistamine creams: These target the histamine released from bug bites and other skin ailments to relieve the itchy symptoms. Since they only target the histamine, experts we spoke to warned that they have not been proven to be as effective compared to other anti-itch creams on the market. Anesthetic creams: In order to reduce pain and take away the urge to scratch your itchy skin, topical anesthetics (menthol and pramoxine hydrochloride are two popular ingredients) are local numbing agents. They’re often used as pain relievers, but their effect works to relieve itchiness, especially from bug bites, poison ivy, minor burns, and more. Which Cream Is Right For You? The type of anti-itch treatment you pick depends on what is causing the itch—here are a few common sources of discomfort and what type of product will bring you relief. Dryness: If you experience itchy skin and irritation because your skin is dry and lacks the proper moisture, you want to find creams or lotions that will hydrate your skin and keep that moisture locked into the skin. You can find beneficial ingredients include ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid in many non-steroid creams. Conditions like psoriasis and eczema: The severity of these skin conditions will impact what creams work best for you. Hydrating ingredients should be your main priority for both conditions because these ingredients will help soothe and ease dryness. Additionally, ingredients like hydrocortisone and pramoxine can reduce irritation. Bug bites and other rashes: Hydrocortisone and pramoxine-based products will assist with irritation and itchiness. “Anti-itch creams with neuromodulators (such as pramoxine) can slow the itch signals traveling along your nerves to your brain that you notice as itch,” Cynthia Bailey, MD, board certified dermatologist and founder of Dr. Bailey Skin Care, says. Our Top Picks Best Overall: Aveeno Anti-Itch Cream at Amazon ($11) Jump to Review Best Value: Eucerin Eczema Relief Flare-Up Treatment at Amazon ($8) Jump to Review Best for Eczema: Cortizone 10 Intensive Healing Lotion for Eczema at Amazon ($9) Jump to Review Best for Psoriasis: Gold Bond Ultimate Psoriasis Relief Cream at Amazon ($10) Jump to Review Best Moisturizer: La Roche-Posay Lipikar AP+M Triple Repair Body Cream at Amazon ($20) Jump to Review Best for Bug Bites: Cortizone-10 Maximum Strength at Amazon (See Price) Jump to Review Best Antihistamine Cream: Benadryl Original Strength Itch-Stopping Cream at Amazon ($14) Jump to Review Best for Sensitive Skin: Sarna Anti-Itch Lotion at Amazon ($11) Jump to Review Best Fragrance-Free: Vanicream Anti-Itch Cream at Amazon ($9) Jump to Review Best Steroid-Free: Aveeno Eczema Moisturizing Cream at Amazon ($20) Jump to Review In This Article Expand Types of Anti-Itch Creams Which Cream Is Right For You? Our Picks How We Selected What to Look For Our Experts FAQ Why Trust Verywell Health Best Overall Aveeno Anti-Itch Cream Amazon View On Amazon $11 View On CVS $9 View On Riteaid.com $9 Pros Steroid cream that includes hydrating ingredients Treats minor irritation caused by psoriasis and eczema Provides fast-acting itch relief Cons High price per ounce Includes some fragrance Why We Recommend It The Aveeno 1% Hydrocortisone Anti-itch Cream earned the top spot on our list because it’s a steroid cream that includes hydrating ingredients that help soothe dry skin. As the name suggests, this product 1% hydrocortisone—an ingredient studies have found is effective in treating itchy skin. This is the maximum amount of hydrocortisone you can get in an over-the-counter treatment. But what makes this a stand-out cream is that it also includes colloidal oatmeal—an ingredient that works to soothe irritated skin, as well as vitamin E and aloe further work to hydrate and soothe dry skin. This product stands out from others on the market because it was created with specific skin conditions in mind, such as mild eczema, psoriasis, bug bites, and poison ivy. So, no matter what mild skin ailment you are dealing with, this product should offer fast-acting relief and reduce inflammation. Keep In Mind It’s only 1 ounce of cream, so addressing large areas of itchiness may require multiple tubes to help reduce irritation and itch. Key Specs: Type: Steroid | Size: 1 ounce | Active Ingredients: Hydrocortisone | Scent: Some fragrance Best Value Eucerin Eczema Relief Flare-Up Treatment Amazon View On Amazon $8 Pros Affordable per ounce Assists with eczema flare-ups Incorporates hydrating ingredients like ceramides and colloidal oatmeal Cons Greasy formula Only addresses minor to moderate skin irritation Why We Recommend It Get the most bang for your buck with the Eucerin Eczema Relief Flare-up Treatment, which comes in a five-ounce bottle and provides enough product for you to tackle multiple areas of the body experiencing skin irritation or itchiness. This non-steroid treatment incorporates colloidal oatmeal as one of the main ingredients, which helps soothes skin and has anti-inflammatory benefits as well. We also like that this pick from Eucerin incorporates a mixture of ceramides to bring moisture back to the skin and licorice root extract, which helps soothe any minor skin irritation or itchiness. Keep In Mind This is a thicker cream, so it may not absorb into your skin as quickly as others. Although the cream works well to address mild eczema, for more severe cases you might need to see a healthcare professional so they can prescribe a stronger cream. Key Specs: Type: Non-steroid | Size: 5 ounces | Active Ingredients: N/A | Scent: Fragrance-free Best for Eczema Cortizone 10 Intensive Healing Lotion for Eczema Amazon View On Amazon $9 View On Walmart $9 View On Walgreens $13 Pros Fragrance-free formula Includes hydrating ingredients to combat dryness Cons Not available in larger sizes Why We Recommend It Cortizone 10 Intensive Healing Lotion received the National Eczema Association’s Seal of Acceptance for its combination of steroid and non-steroid ingredients that tackle both dryness and itchiness caused by eczema. We like that this contains 1% hydrocortisone to relieve inflammation and itchiness, as well as shea butter, aloe, glycerin, and petrolatum—all of which bring moisture back into the skin and keep that moisture in the barrier. Another reason we think this is the best pick if you have eczema: it’s hypoallergenic and fragrance-free. That’s because eczema can cause your skin to be more sensitive to certain ingredients (especially fragrance). Keep In Mind There is no cure for eczema, but different over-the-counter and prescription products can help manage the symptoms.For more severe eczema flares or chronic eczema, you may need to seek a medical professional for a stronger treatment option Key Specs: Type: Steroid | Size: 3.5 ounces | Active Ingredients: Hydrocortisone | Scent: Fragrance free Best for Psoriasis Gold Bond Ultimate Psoriasis Relief Cream Amazon View On Amazon $10 View On Walmart $10 View On Myotcstore.com Pros Steroid and fragrance-free Includes salicylic acid to address psoriasis plaques Affordable Cons The formula can feel greasy Why We Recommend It If you have psoriasis, you’re familiar with the itchy patches and scales that come with it. Gold Bond Multi-Symptom Psoriasis Relief Cream received the National Psoriasis Foundation Seal of Recognition for its non-irritating ingredients that are safe for daily use for someone with the skin condition. The cream includes salicylic acid as its key active ingredient, which studies have found helps reduce psoriasis plaques. Besides salicylic acid, the product is both non-steroid and fragrance-free, which works well for individuals who experience skin sensitivities or reactions to harsher ingredients. The formula is also thick and includes the hydrating ingredient of petrolatum, which helps seal moisture into your skin. Keep In Mind There is no cure for psoriasis, however, certain moisturizers and creams help minimize the itchy patches and relieve the symptoms. Key Specs: Type: Non-steroid | Size: 4 ounces | Active Ingredients: Salicylic Acid | Scent: Fragrance-free The 10 Best Psoriasis Lotions to Soothe Rashes, Patches and Other Symptoms Best Moisturizer La Roche-Posay Lipikar AP+M Triple Repair Body Cream Amazon View On Amazon $20 View On Walgreens $20 View On Ulta $15 Pros Incorporates hydrating ingredients like ceramides and niacinamide Thick formula to keep moisture in skin Works for the face and body Cons The pump makes it difficult to get all of the product out of the bottle Why We Recommend It One of the best ways to relieve itchy skin is through a moisturizer, according to Dr. Bailey. This is because dry skin or excessive scratching after dryness can cause itchiness, so relieving the dryness fixes the itchy symptoms. The La Roche-Posay Lipkar Balm Ap+ Intensive Repair Body Lotion was formulated specifically for dry and sensitive skin. The formula is fragrance-free and includes several hydrating ingredients, including ceramides, niacinamide, and shea butter. Together, these ingredients restore moisture and address any flakes or irritation. Further, the thick formula locks in the moisture in the skin to help replenish the barrier once it is applied. La Roche-Posay created the product with both the face and body in mind, so it works great no matter where you need to use it. Keep In Mind This is a steroid-free moisturizer, so it will help more with hydrating to relieve itchiness than reducing inflammation and irritation. Key Specs: Type: Non-steroid | Size: 13.5oz | Active Ingredients: N/A | Scent: Fragrance-free Best for Bug Bites Cortizone-10 Maximum Strength Amazon View On Amazon View On Walmart $13 View On Walgreens $10 Pros Includes soothing and moisturizing ingredients Non-greasy formula Cons Contains fragrance Tackle pesky bug bites and itchy patches with Cortizone 10 Maximum Strength Creme. The cream is formulated with 1% hydrocortisone—the highest dosage of hydrocortisone available over-the-counter to treat itchy skin and inflammation. The steroid works to reduce inflammation and relieve any itchiness on the surface that you are experiencing. We like that this product includes aloe, which will work to soothe and moisturize the skin. In addition to being effective for relieving itch from bug bites, the cream also works to relieve minor symptoms related to poison ivy, a skin rash, or allergic reaction, among other minor skin ailments that cause itchy skin. Keep In Mind This is a steroid anti-itch cream, which is good for inflammation. But if you want to dull the annoying itch that comes with many bug bites, you might prefer an antihistamine cream instead. Key Specs: Type: Steroid | Size: 2 ounce | Active Ingredients: hydrocortisone | Scent: Contains ingredients with fragrance Best Antihistamine Cream Benadryl Original Strength Itch-Stopping Cream Amazon View On Amazon $14 View On Walmart $9 View On CVS $8 Pros Includes pain relieving ingredients and skin protectants Small size is convenient to carry when hiking or on-the-go for immediate treatment Cons Not as effective at hydrating the skin as other options Why We Recommend It Benadryl is one of the biggest names in antihistamines, so it should come as no surprise to see them on here as our antihistamine pick. Just like their allergy medicine, their topical antihistamine works quickly and effectively to stop itching. Benadryl Original Strength Itch-Stopping Cream is a great option for immediate relief from itching from bug bites, poison ivy, and more because it includes diphenhydramine hydrochloride, a topical analgesic, and zinc acetate, a skin protectant as active ingredients. Keep In Mind This is only safe for people 2 years and older. Key Specs: Type: Antihistamine | Size: 1 ounce | Active Ingredients: diphenhydramine hydrochloride and zinc acetate | Scent: Fragrance-free Best for Sensitive Skin Sarna Anti-Itch Lotion Amazon View On Amazon $11 View On Walmart $11 View On Riteaid.com $15 Pros Fragrance-free, steroid-free, and paraben-free Works well for individuals with eczema Affordable Cons Pump applicator can make it difficult to get all of the product out of the bottle Why We Recommend It For individuals with sensitive skin, it is important to find a cream that cuts out any harsh ingredients that might cause irritations, such as fragrances and parabens. Sarna Sensitive Anti-Itch Lotion removes any ingredients that might cause irritation for those with skin sensitivities. Instead, the lotion’s formula includes pramoxine hydrochloride—a local anesthetic, non-steroid alternative to hydrocortisone that works to numb the skin to both reduce inflammation and itch. Additionally, the formula includes petrolatum, which helps lock in moisture. We also like that lotion has the National Eczema Association’s Seal of Acceptance for its effectiveness against eczema. Keep In Mind Since this is a lotion, it will have a thinner consistency than a cream. It may be better for larger areas of dryness, rather than smaller, more concentrated areas. Key Specs: Type: Non-steroid | Size: 7.5 ounces | Active Ingredients: Praxomine hydrochloride | Scent: Fragrance-free Best Fragrance-Free Vanicream Anti-Itch Cream Amazon View On Amazon $9 View On Walmart View On Walgreens $12 Pros Cream can be used on the face or body Fragrance and paraben-free Works well for eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis Cons Only available in the small, 2-ounce size Get the benefits of an anti-itch cream without any harsh fragrances or parabens when you use the Vanicream 1% Hydrocortisone Anti-Itch Cream. The cream’s formula includes 1% hydrocortisone, which will target any mild itchiness and reduce inflammation. And like many other picks on our list, it also includes petrolatum to help keep moisture in. Not only does this cream work for individuals with general itchiness, but also those who experience eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis. The best part about this product is that it is formulated to work both on the body and the face, making it a great choice no matter where you might be itchy. Keep In Mind The small, 2-ounce tube may not last long depending on how frequently you use it. Key Specs: Type: Steroid | Size: 2 ounce | Active Ingredients: Hydrocortisone | Scent: Fragrance-free Best Steroid-Free Aveeno Eczema Moisturizing Cream Amazon View On Amazon $20 View On Walmart $13 View On IHerb $22 Pros Fragrance-free, paraben-free, and steroid free Works for individuals with minor eczema Includes hydrating ingredients Cons Pump applicator can make it difficult to get all of the product out of the bottle Why We Recommend It Many anti-itch products contain steroids as a main ingredient because of their efficacy against treating itch and inflammation. But for some, a steroid-free moisturizer works and feels better on their skin. The Aveeno Eczema Therapy Daily Moisturizing Body Cream features many hydrating and soothing ingredients—like colloidal oatmeal and ceramides—to help soothe, hydrate, and relieve itchiness. Keep In Mind Since this is a lotion, expect it to have a thinner texture. It is better for hydrating larger areas on the body rather than providing more concentrated relief. Key Specs: Type: Non-steroid | Size: 12 ounce | Active Ingredients: Colloidal oatmeal | Scent: Fragrance-free Best Hydrocortisone CeraVe Hydrocortisone Anti-Itch Cream Amazon View On Amazon $10 View On Walmart View On CVS $10 Pros Addresses both itch and hydration Fragrance-free formula Works well for eczema-prone skin Cons Small amount for the price Why We Recommend It According to Abigail Waldman, MD, FAAD, board certified dermatologist and director of Mohs and Dermatologic Surgery Center at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, hydrocortisone is one of the most beneficial over-the-counter ingredients because it fights off itch once it’s applied. What makes CeraVe’s Hydrocortisone Anti-Itch Cream stand out from others on the market is the formula’s inclusion of ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide—ingredients that work to restore the skin barrier and moisturize the surface. This cream also received the National Eczema Association’s Seal of Acceptance for its benefits for people with eczema. Keep In Mind As with most of the hydrocortisone products on this list, this CeraVe cream only comes in a small, 1-ounce size. Key Specs: Type: Steroid | Size: 1 ounce | Active Ingredients: Hydrocortisone | Scent: Fragrance-free Best for Sunburned Skin Gold Bond Medicated Anti-Itch Cream Amazon View On Amazon $8 View On Walmart Pros Steroid-free Includes hydrating ingredients like aloe Fast-acting in treating minor itchiness Cons Price per ounce is more expensive than other brands Numbing sensation might irritate some Why We Recommend It Not only does sunburned skin feel uncomfortable because of the heat the skin radiates, but the irritated skin can also cause itchiness. Gold Bond’s Maximum Strength Medicated Anti-Itch Cream includes a combination of topical analgesics menthol and pramoxine hydrochloride to address itchiness and irritation. Menthol works by distracting the skin receptors from the itchiness—causing a numbing sensation on the applied area. We like that it also features aloe, which provides cooling, soothing comfort, and vitamin E, which helps moisturize. Keep In Mind This is a sunburn relief product, but it doesn’t help prevent sunburn. Make sure you wear sunscreen when you are outside, especially when you have sunburned skin. Key Specs: Type: Non-steroid | Size: 1 ounce | Active Ingredients: Menthol, pramoxine hydrochloride | Scent: Includes ingredients with fragrance Best Calamine Aveeno Anti-Itch Concentrated Lotion Amazon View On Amazon $9 View On Walmart $12 View On Riteaid.com $11 Pros Addresses bug bites, poison ivy, and other itchy rashes Incorporates hydrating and soothing ingredients Cream rubs in invisible Cons Active ingredient calamine can have a strong scent Why We Recommend It Soothe bug bites and rashes formed by poison ivy with the Aveeno Anti-Itch Concentrated Lotion. One of the main ingredients in this lotion, calamine, is a topical used to temporarily ease itchiness, irritation, and redness caused by minor skin ailments. The other active ingredient is pramoxine hydrochloride, which has a numbing effect on the skin to help relieve the pain and itch. We also like that this Aveeno lotion incorporates the hydrating ingredient natural oatmeal and petrolatum, which helps seal moisture into the skin. What makes this lotion different from other calamine-based products is that the moisturizer rubs into the skin without leaving behind a white or pink product. So, you can apply the product before you leave the house without concern that it will not fully rub in. Keep In Mind You should apply calamine lotion with a cotton ball. Key Specs: Type: Non-steroid | Size: 4 ounces | Active Ingredients: Calamine, Pramoxine HCI | Scent: Some fragrance How We Selected the Best Anti-Itch Creams When selecting the best anti-itch creams, we spoke with two board certified dermatologists about what ingredients and types of creams are most helpful when trying to relieve itch. We reviewed dozens of products for their active ingredients (such as hydrocortisone or pramoxine) and prioritized creams that included hydrating ingredients (such as ceramides, colloidal oatmeal, and vitamin E) for maximum benefit and relief from symptoms. We looked closely at and avoided products that had harsh additives such as fragrance (though there are a few on our list). Finally, we aimed to incorporate a variety of products that addressed a variety of skin conditions—such as eczema, psoriasis, dry skin, and bug bites—that way individuals could find a cream most suitable for their skincare needs. Active Ingredients to Look For Hydrocortisone: The most common active ingredient often found in anti-itch creams is hydrocortisone, which works to reduce the inflammation that leads to itching. This ingredient is only available up to 1% hydrocortisone in over-the-counter products, so you will not receive as potent of cream compared to prescription-grade products. Dr. Waldman recommends meeting with a healthcare professional for a stronger product if your itch keeps you up at night or lasts longer than two weeks. Menthol: This ingredient creates a numbing sensation on the skin and distracts the itch receptors so that your body is no longer focused on the itchiness, Dr. Waldman says. Pramoxine hydrochloride: Also helps relieve pain and the itchy sensation thanks to its numbing effect on the skin. Hydrating ingredients: There is a range of hydrating ingredients that also help provide itch relief by addressing dryness and the moisture levels in your skin. These ingredients include ceramides, oatmeal, vitamin E, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid, to name a few. Skin protectants: Zinc oxide, the primary ingredient in diaper rash cream, is a common skin protectant in anti-itch cream. You may also see petrolatum on the label, which helps seal moisture into the skin (though it may leave you feeling greasy since it’s not highly absorptive). Ingredients to avoid include lidocaine and benzocaine, which, like menthol and pramoxine hydrochloride, numbs the skin and distracts the receptors from itchiness. However, Cynthia Bailey, MD, board certified dermatologist and founder of Dr. Bailey Skin Care, advises against products with these ingredients because they might cause allergic reactions and skin rashes. Our Experts Abigail Waldman, MD, FAAD, board certified dermatologist and director of Mohs and Dermatologic Surgery Center at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston. Cynthia Bailey, MD, board certified dermatologist and founder of Dr. Bailey Skin Care. Frequently Asked Questions Is it safe to use an anti-itch cream every day? Using over-the-counter anti-itch creams should not harm the skin because these products incorporate low-grade ingredients. Nonetheless, applying these creams every day might reduce efficacy over time, Dr. Bailey warns. “Your skin may become [less responsive] to the ingredient,” she says. Cortisones, for example, are one ingredient that might become less effective over time, she adds. Additionally, Dr. Bailey states that individuals who use antihistamines or ingredients like lidocaine or benzocaine could develop allergies to the ingredients. Dr. Waldman recommends applying these creams up to twice per day on the affected area. If you find after two weeks that the skin irritation persists, you should seek additional help from a healthcare professional. Do the ingredients in anti-itch creams interact with oral medications? No, Dr. Waldman says that the ingredients in anti-itch creams should not interact negatively with oral medications. In fact, individuals might find it beneficial to take an oral antihistamine with an anti-itch cream. This is because the most common cause for itchy or irritated skin is a lack of moisture, Dr. Waldman explains. Using an anti-itch cream will help restore moisture to the barrier. Then the oral antihistamine works to soothe and lessen itchy symptoms until the cream properly hydrates the skin. What is the difference between cortisone and hydrocortisone? “Hydrocortisone is one of the many forms of cortisone medicines; cortisone is the class of steroid medicines and hydrocortisone is one member of that class,” Dr. Bailey says. There are several classes of steroid medications on the market, and each of them have different strengths and grades, Dr. Waldman adds. Cortisone is one class of steroids, and hydrocortisone is within that class. Why Trust Verywell Health Danielle Zoellner is a Boston-based freelance writer with an emphasis on health and wellness writing. She has written for The Independent, Verywell Health, DailyMail.com, and Vox Magazine, among other publications. Growing up in a household of healthcare professionals has fueled her passion for topics relating to health, fitness, wellness, and the medical industry. Danielle has a bachelor’s degree in Journalism and English from the University of Missouri. As someone with sensitive skin, Danielle has experienced her own issues with itchy and irritated skin. She utilized her past experience finding the right products for her skin when researching and writing this article about anti-itch creams. 2 Sources Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. Yarbrough KB, Neuhaus KJ, Simpson EL. The effects of treatment on itch in atopic dermatitis. Dermatol Ther. 2013;26(2):110-119. doi:10.1111/dth.12032 Draelos ZD. The efficacy and tolerability of turmeric and salicylic acid in psoriasis treatment. PTT. 2022;Volume 12:63-71. doi:10.2147/PTT.S360448 See Our Editorial Process Meet Our Medical Expert Board Share Feedback Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! What is your feedback? Other Helpful Report an Error Submit