Pregnancy  brings many changes in your body. These changes come with unwanted symptoms like nausea, body pains and cramps. One such symptom is itchy skin. Itchy skin during pregnancy can be extremely annoying and it can be more than just another skin infection. Itchy skin can be caused due to various factors like weight gain, lack of hydration, hormonal imbalance or infection. There are many OTC products available to soothe your itchy skin during pregnancy. However, there are naturally available ingredients as well that soothe your irritated skin without any side effects. Here are the 11 best home remedies for itchy skin during pregnancy that are safe and natural:

Read More: Itchy Skin During Pregnancy: Do I need to be worried?

11 Best Home Remedies for Itchy Skin During Pregnancy

1. Oatmeal

Oatmeal is known for its emollient properties. It nourishes skin and is a great bathing ingredient. During pregnancy a bath with oatmeal as scrub can alleviate signs of itching. It makes skin softer, fights infections and also prevents formation of stretch marks. Mix one cup of oatmeal with plain water or milk and scrub the affected area gently for 15 to 20 minutes and rinse it off.

Read More: Home Remedies for Yeast Infection During Pregnancy

2. Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera is a naturally available moisturiser with antimicrobial properties. Fresh Aloe Vera gel can be directly applied to the skin to soothe itchy and irritated skin. It is safe for use during pregnancy as it has no side effects. You can apply the gel and leave it on or you can wash it off after leaving it on for sometime.

Read More: Health Benefits of Aloe Vera Juice for Women and Kids

3. Baking soda

Baking soda can provide you with prompt relief from any kind of itchiness and redness. It soothes the skin and also purifies it from any kind of pollutant or microbes. Mix 2-3 teaspoon of baking soda with some water to make a thin paste. Apply the paste in the affected area and wash off after 15-20 minutes.

4. Yogurt

Yogurt is a very popular probiotic and home remedy for yeast infections that cause itches around the genital area. Yogurt not only cools down your entire system but also soothes the skin. It nourishes the skin, moisturises it while soothing the irritated area.

5. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is an age old remedy for dry skin and related skin problems. Lack of hydration is common during pregnancy and it can lead to itchy skin. Massaging coconut oil daily can reduce this problem. Coconut oil is not only an efficient moisturiser but also acts an effective antimicrobial agent that clears any kind of bacterial or fungal infection on the skin.

6. Gram flour

Gram flour is an age old remedy for smooth and healthy skin. When itchy skin bothers you during pregnancy, mix gram flour with some milk or yogurt and apply it on the affected area. Let it dry and wash off with plain water. This will not only provide relief from itchiness but also gives you glowing skin during pregnancy.

7. Dandelion root

Cholestasis is one of the top contributors of itchy skin during pregnancy. Consumption of a concoction of dandelion root will cleanse your liver and alleviate symptoms of cholestasis including itchy skin. Simply add one teaspoon of dandelion root to a glass of water and consume it. Dandelion root capsules are also available in pharmacies.

8. Lemon juice

Lemon juice is rich in Vitamin C and known for its skin benefits. It not only gives you great skin but also alleviates itchiness. Lemon juice is acidic in nature and can irritate skin; when you want to use lemon juice on your skin, you need to dilute it with water and apply it sparingly with cotton.

9. Tea tree oil

Tea tree oil has antifungal and antiviral properties. If your skin is itchy due to any kind of infection, you can dilute tea tree oil with some water and apply on the affected area. You can also mix tea tree oil with some olive oil or coconut oil and massage into the affected area for an added moisturising effect.

10. Calamine lotion

Calamine lotion is rich in zinc oxide which has calming effect on skin. It reduces inflammation and safe for pregnant women. Use this lotion twice a day for better effects.

11. Cold compress

Cold compress is the easiest home remedy for itchy skin. It involves no ingredients except cold water or ice. Dip a washcloth in cold water and apply on the affected area. You may also use an ice pack for this purpose. The cold compress will bring immediate relief and reduce redness and irritation.

It is always a good idea to consult a doctor if itchiness persists. If left unattended, the itchiness may increase and lead to worse skin conditions. Stay hydrated and use a good moisturizer to keep you skin healthy. Massage the skin around your stomach regularly with olive oil to prevent stretch marks and itchiness due to weight gain.

Read More: Is Your Skin Changing During Pregnancy?