Incessantly scratching an itch is what causes lichen simplex chronicus. Otherwise referred to as neurodermatitis, this repetitive itching of your skin causes trauma that results in it becoming thick and scaly.
It’s the cycle of chronic itching and scratching that is the basic cause for lichen simplex chronicus. Although, your scaly skin neurodermatitis caused by your vigorous itching may be initially instigated by some type of skin condition, like:
- eczema
- dry skin
- bug bite
- psoriasis
- itch causing skin conditions
- irritation caused by tight clothing
These causes of pruritus aren’t the genesis of lichen simplex chronicus, just encourages your scratching at the beginning.
Stress and anxiety can trigger itching, as well. Or you may perpetually scratch merely because of habit.
Chronic itching and scratching causes scaly skin patches generally in easily accessible areas like your head, lower legs, wrists or forearms. This stubborn lichen simplex chronicus skin area may also be:
- inflamed
- rash ~ raw, raised, rough
- have lines over skin lesion
- leathery in texture ~ lichenification
- hyperpigmented ~ brown, red in color
Neurodermatitis isn’t serious, but it can lead to:
- scarring
- bacterial skin infection
- permanent color change
The main itch treatment for lichen simplex chronicus is to stop scratching that same spot. Easier said than done for some.
Some help for your itchiness, real or imagined, is via applying topical hydrocortisone cream or take an antihistamine, both treating methods can be purchased OTC. For your scaly skin condition topical ointments containing salicylic acid peel off the over scratched scaly layer so you can usher in fresh skin.
If the cause of your scratching is emotionally charged, then lichen simplex chronicus may require a trip to your health care provider for an antidepressant and tranquilizer. And counseling can help with stress management.
A couple of ways to naturally treat an itch that you shouldn’t scratch is:
- keep your stress under your control
- apply a moisturizer to protect your skin
- cover your scaled skin area with a dressing
- wear smooth-textured cotton clothing to avoid irritation
- take a baking soda, uncooked oatmeal or colloidal oatmeal bath daily
- use mild soaps without dyes or perfumes and rinse soap off thoroughly
After you stop scratching it may take months for that scaly skin patch to return to healthy looking.