Because you employ your hands in carrying out several different everyday activities, they tend to come into contact with harsh chemicals in personal and household products as well as microbes on objects such as subway handrails, doorknobs and toilet flush levers. It’s for this reason why they usually end up itchy.

In some cases, itchy hands are due to excessive skin dryness. There are times in which it is brought about by microbial activity. But then in some instances it’s because of an existing skin condition such as psoriasis and dermatitis.

Severe hand itchiness can cause more than just an itchy sensation but also pain. At times the hands may become covered with red rashes and even blisters, and scratching can cause the skin to break and potentially become infected. Needless to say, scratching is a complete no-no as it will surely exacerbate the problem.

If you have itchy hands, do not panic. Relax for a while and continue reading to come across some of the tried-and-tested effective home remedies for itchy hands. Don’t forget to repost this article afterwards so that your family members and friends may also know which steps to take in case their hands end up feeling itchy, too.

Apply Apple Cider Vinegar

Soak a cotton ball in apple cider vinegar. Apply the sour-tasting liquid on areas of the hands that feel itchy. Allow apple cider vinegar to remain there for about 30 minutes to give it plenty of time to carry out its job. Afterwards, rinse your hands with warm water. Perform this 2 to 3 times daily until your hands no longer itch.

Dissolve Baking Soda in Warm Water

In a small basin filled with warm water, dissolve 1/2 cup of baking soda very well. Soak your hands in it for 15 to 20 minutes. Do this 1 to 2 times a day. By the way, make sure that you apply your favorite hand lotion afterwards, preferably one that contains no fragrance or any other harsh ingredient.

Or Try Dissolving Oatmeal

Aside from baking soda, you may also try dissolving oatmeal in a basin of warm water. However, you will have to first pulverize half a cup of uncooked oatmeal using a food processor or your coffee or spice grinder. Allow your itchy hands to soak in the water for up to 20 minutes before rinsing them with water.

Massage Aloe Vera Gel

Got some aloe vera plants in your garden? Each time your hands feel itchy, immediately break a leaf and harvest the gel within. Massage on areas of the hands that feel itchy. Wait for 10 to 15 minutes to pass before rinsing it off with cold water. If you have no access to aloe vera plants, use commercially available aloe vera gel or juice.

Count on Crushed Basil Leaves

Another remedy for itchy hands that’s probably in your garden is basil. All you need to do is pick a couple of fresh basil leaves and crush them with your fingers. Rub on affected areas to allow its pungent oils to come into contact with them. After about 15 to 20 minutes, wash your hands with water. This remedy may be performed morning and night.

Use Lemon Juice

Grab a cotton ball and soak it in freshly-squeezed lemon juice. Apply afterwards on parts of your hands that feel itchy. Be forewarned that you may feel some stinging for the first few minutes. If you can stand the stinging, allow lemon juice to remain in place for 15 minutes. You may try diluting lemon juice with water for less stinging.

Soak in Cold Water

Last but not least and also perhaps the easiest of these home remedies, simply immerse your hands in cold water for a few minutes. Instantly, this will get rid of any itchiness. It’s also great for alleviating red rashes if they’re around. Take your hands out of the water the moment you start feeling discomfort rather than a soothing sensation.