Why Is Eczema Itchy? Understanding the Itch & How to Relieve It
Share
If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Why is eczema itchy?”, you’re not alone. Itchy skin is one of the most distressing and persistent symptoms of eczema, affecting both children and adults alike. At Australian Psoriasis and Eczema Supplies, we know firsthand how overwhelming the itch can be — and how vital it is to understand the underlying causes so you can treat it effectively.
In this guide, we’ll break down why eczema causes intense itching and explore proven ways to find relief using dermatologist-recommended products available right here in Australia.
Why Is Eczema Itchy?
Eczema (or atopic dermatitis) isn’t just dry skin — it’s an inflammatory skin condition with complex root causes that lead to persistent itching. Here are the key contributors:
A Damaged Skin Barrier
People with eczema often have a weakened skin barrier, which means their skin loses moisture easily and lets irritants in. This triggers inflammation and nerve responses that create an itchy sensation.
Immune System Overreaction
Eczema is linked to an overactive immune response. Even minor irritants or allergens — such as dust mites or soap — can trigger the release of inflammatory chemicals, including histamines, which cause itchiness.
Nerve Sensitisation
Ongoing scratching makes skin more sensitive over time. In people with chronic eczema, the nerves become hypersensitive, leading to more intense itching — a cycle that’s hard to break.
Triggers in Everyday Life
Environmental factors such as heat, sweat, allergens, harsh soaps, and stress can all provoke itching. Identifying and avoiding your personal triggers can help manage flare-ups.
Why Is Eczema Itchy at Night?
Many people find their eczema feels worse in the evening or overnight, disrupting sleep and increasing stress. Why does this happen?
-
Body temperature fluctuates at night, which can increase itching.
-
There are fewer distractions, so you're more aware of the itch.
-
Cortisol levels drop at night, potentially increasing inflammation and itchiness.
Tip: Night-time Relief With Our Products
To help reduce night-time itching, try applying Aveeno Skin Relief Moisturising Lotion before bed. Its colloidal oatmeal formula creates a protective barrier and calms irritation. You can also use our Bee Venom Cream, which is trusted by many customers for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
How to Break the Eczema Itch-Scratch Cycle
Scratching feels good — for a second — but it leads to skin damage, infection, and more inflammation. Here’s how to manage the itch-scratch cycle effectively using our product range:
Hydration is Key
Dry skin itches more, so consistent moisturising is vital.
Recommended Product:
🔹 QV Skin Lotion – A lightweight, non-greasy lotion ideal for daily use. It hydrates and protects without irritating sensitive skin.
🔹 Grahams Natural Eczema Cream – Specifically formulated to calm irritated skin using natural ingredients like manuka honey and emu oil.
Reduce Inflammation
Inflammation causes nerve irritation and triggers itch.
Recommended Product:
🔹 Bee Venom Cream (Original or Plus+) – Known for its sting-on-application feeling, Bee Venom helps reduce redness and inflammation. It’s a favourite among Aussies when nothing else seems to work.
Soothe Itchy Skin with Baths
Bathing can help, but harsh soaps and hot water make it worse. Instead, opt for soothing soaks.
Recommended Product:
🔹 Aveeno Soothing Bath Soak – Colloidal oatmeal gently calms the skin, relieves itching, and restores the skin’s barrier function.
Tip: Keep baths lukewarm and moisturise immediately after patting dry.
Light Therapy for Persistent Eczema
For severe or chronic eczema, UVB light therapy is a clinically proven method to reduce itch and inflammation.
Recommended Product:
🔹 Desktop UVB 311nm Light Therapy Lamp – Ideal for home use. This targeted therapy helps calm the immune response and reduces itchiness over time.
Can Stress Make Eczema Itchier?
Yes — stress is a major itch amplifier. When you’re stressed, your body releases hormones that stimulate nerve endings and worsen inflammation, making the itch more intense.
How to Combat Stress-Induced Itching
-
Practice mindfulness or meditation before bed.
-
Use calming skin treatments like our Itch Relief Soothing Spray, which delivers fast cooling relief.
-
Keep a diary of when flare-ups occur and note stressful events to identify patterns.
Why Is Eczema Itchy and what Makes Eczema Itch Worse?
Avoiding common irritants can help prevent flare-ups and minimise itching:
| Worsening Factor | What to Do Instead |
|---|---|
| Hot showers | Use lukewarm water |
| Harsh soaps & detergents | Use soap-free QV Wash |
| Scratching during sleep | Wear cotton gloves, trim nails |
| Wool or synthetic fabrics | Wear breathable, soft cotton clothing |
| Overuse of steroid creams | Alternate with natural moisturisers |
Real Reviews – What Our Customers Say About Itchy Eczema
“I’ve struggled with itchy eczema for years. Bee Venom Plus is the first thing that gave me relief without needing steroids. You can feel it working.”
— Helen, NSW
“The Aveeno bath soak is a game-changer! My son finally sleeps through the night without scratching.”
— Tanya, QLD
“I use the UVB lamp every evening. It’s reduced my flare-ups and the itch is now manageable.”
— Mark, VIC
When Should You See a Doctor?
While many cases of eczema can be managed with at-home treatments, you should speak to a healthcare provider if:
-
The itch is unbearable or disrupts sleep constantly
-
Skin becomes infected (red, weepy, or hot)
-
You need long-term steroid treatments
-
Over-the-counter treatments don’t work after 2–4 weeks
Final Thoughts: Why Is Eczema Itchy & What You Can Do
Why is eczema itchy? It’s a combination of inflammation, a weakened skin barrier, overactive nerves, and environmental triggers. But the good news is — you don’t have to live in discomfort.
At Australian Psoriasis and Eczema Supplies, we offer a carefully selected range of eczema relief products that are trusted by real Australians. From Bee Venom Cream and Aveeno Bath Soaks to UVB Light Therapy, our products help reduce inflammation, repair the skin, and relieve the itch so you can feel like yourself again.