What Would Be Possible Causes Of Itchy Forearms? What Is The Treatment?

Posted on Sat, 30 Nov 2013

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 30 Nov 2013 Answered on

Thu, 19 Dec 2013 Last reviewed on

Question : What would be possible causes of itchy forearms? What could be done to prevent /treat ?

Answered by Dr. Jorge Brenes-Salazar (1 hour later)

Brief Answer: Low dose steroids, hydrating lotions. Detailed Answer: Dear patient, Thanks for your concerns. Without a question the most common cause of itchy forearms is xerosis cutis, or dry skin, but other causes are also prevalent such as eczema, contact dermatitis, and atopic dermatitis. The first thing you want to ensure is that the moisture is adequate, if not, then a hydrating-dermatologist approved skin lotion would be in order. Currently both steroid creams such as hydrocortisone and anti-hystaminics like dyphenhydramine are available over the counter, and can be mixed and applied to the affected areas twice a day with good results for most patients. Hope that helps, wish you the best, Dr Brenes-Salazar MD Mayo Clinic MN

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar