If you live with psoriasis, you may be well aware of the itchiness that can accompany the condition. In some cases, this itchiness may be mild. For some, however, itchy skin caused by psoriasis can interfere with your ability to sleep, work, or enjoy daily life. 

In the Inspire Psoriasis Community, Inspire members discuss different over-the-counter (OTC) treatments that they recommend for soothing itchy skin caused by psoriasis. The following posts represent a sample of Inspire members’ experiences. This content should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. As always, consult with your doctor before trying any new treatments or medications.

To access more psoriasis discussions, join the Inspire Psoriasis Community.

1. Oral antihistamines

Some Inspire members find that OTC oral antihistamines can help with the itching caused by their psoriasis. Antihistamines work by disrupting the histamine response of the body. Histamine is a compound which is released by cells in response to injury and in allergic and inflammatory reactions. Antihistamines should not be used by everyone and can cause side effects like drowsiness, so check with your doctor before taking them.

“Benadryl…really helped me. Benadryl is OTC, I have had complete relief in about 15 min.” Go to post

2. Coal tar cream

Coal tar cream is another OTC product that has helped some Inspire members find relief from their itchy psoriasis. Coal tar cream is a cream that is derived from coal. Coal tar should not be used by certain people, including people who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Also, coal tar should not be applied to certain areas of the body. Have your doctor advise you on the proper use of coal tar products.

“Coal tar cream has alleviated a ton of the itchiness with the psoriasis on the soles of my feet. MG217 is the brand I’ve been using. It helps a lot and is affordable too.” Go to post

3. Sorion cream

Sorion cream is a brand-name herbal cream that contains various herbs and oils. Members of the Inspire Psoriasis Community find that Sorion cream helps relieve their psoriasis itching. Sorion cream can be purchased online.

“I’ve been dealing with psoriasis for several decades. I went to a psoriasis seminar several years ago and received samples of this Sorion cream. While psoriasis is not curable, this particular cream helps intermittently when I don’t want to use the harsher steroidal or conventional ointments. I like the fact that the ingredients are natural without chemicals. For those of you suffering from psoriasis, it’s totally a nice substitute.” Go to post

In some cases, however, Sorion cream can actually increase skin itchiness before you experience any relief, as in the case of this Inspire member: 

“Sorion Cream is definitely the BEST non-prescription treatment out there. The smell doesn't bother me at all, but it makes me itch like crazy! In the summer, I persevered and managed to get beyond the itch - I was able to expose my legs for the first time in years.” Go to post

4. CeraVe creams

CeraVe is a brand of moisturizer that you can find in many grocery stores and pharmacies. The brand makes various forms of lotions and creams for different needs, including their CeraVe Itch Relief Cream and Renewing SA Cream. CeraVe creams are thicker than their lotions and come in screw-top jars.

“I have been using CeraVe itch relief cream (not lotion) and have found it to be helpful.” Go to post

“I have pustular psoriasis on the soles of my feet and the palms of my hands and I use the CeraVe Renewing SA cream and it helps tremendously. I haven't tried the one for psoriasis but I bet it would be good. Nothing I have tried works nearly this well.” Go to post

5. Gold Bond cream

Gold Bond is another easy-to-find brand of moisturizer that offers several itch relief versions of their product, including their Gold Bond Multi-Symptom Psoriasis Relief Cream.

“Gold bond multi-symptom cream works well for me.” Go to post

6. Castor oil

Castor oil is a vegetable oil made from pressed castor beans. It can be found in grocery stores and pharmacies or online.

“Castor oil is also good. Smooth on to the skin and leave for 20 mins before bathing. Skin is wonderfully soft and relieved…” Go to post

7. Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a vinegar made from crushed apples, yeast, and sugar. 

“I'm shocked! I gave apple cider vinegar a try about a week ago after hearing it worked well for several people! I have been applying it with a cotton ball over the affected areas at night before bed and it's actually working already!! My psoriasis is so resistant and I thought for sure it wasn't gonna work! The itching is gone and the redness is half as red as it was....it's also took the bumps away and the skin is flattening out and looking more normal everyday! It's worth a try for anyone struggling with a flare! :))” Go to post

Across Inspire, members share different tips and treatments for psoriasis relief. To share your own experiences with OTC psoriasis relief treatments, start a post in the Inspire Psoriasis Community.

Disclaimer

Member comments have been lightly edited for length and clarity. This content is for general informational purposes only and does not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of any organization or individual. The content should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your healthcare provider about any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.