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Real members of MySebDermTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
August 27
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A MySebDermTeam Member

Hey GregH. I have never personally had the symptoms U are explaining but do know of something called "pruritus". I can remember a long time ago getting something like this with no rash visible. That's when I first learned about this condition. Pruritus can happen at any given time in almost any circumstance as far as I know. Now-a-days I do get an itch from time to time but it's definitely not the pruritus.*Just asked the Google ai about it--seems like there's a bit to be said about that condition: Yes, severe skin itching (pruritus) can absolutely happen after using a washcloth. In fact, medical studies and dermatologists frequently advise people with sensitive skin to stop using washcloths entirely because they are a primary trigger for skin irritation.A washcloth can trigger or worsen intense itching through several common mechanisms:Physical Friction: Scrubbing acts as a physical exfoliant, stripping away the skin's lipid barrier and natural oils. Rough fibers can create tiny, microscopic tears in the skin, causing a prickly, itchy sensation.Laundry Detergent Residue: Washcloths trap a high concentration of laundry chemical residues within their tight woven fibers. When the wet cloth is pressed and rubbed against your skin, hidden fragrances and dyes transfer directly onto your body, frequently causing contact dermatitis.Bacterial or Fungal Buildup: Washcloths that remain damp in a humid bathroom become breeding grounds for bacteria and mold, depositing microscopic irritants back onto your skin barrier.Immediate Steps for Relief: If you are experiencing a severe flare-up right now, you can soothe your skin barrier by applying a cool, damp towel (rinsed only in pure water) or using a targeted over-the-counter anti-itch solution. Products containing pramoxine hydrochloride, calamine, or menthol provide an immediate cooling effect. For generalized inflammation, an over-the-counter 1% hydrocortisone cream can help reduce localized swelling and redness.I think this answer came from various sources online one namely being "Health line.com". FYI: There was a time in my life when I gravitated to using something called "Seventh Generation" detergent for washing cloths. It's a bit more costly but I really noticed a difference in how I felt. It's interesting what they talk about in this google ai response in that--I still use regular detergent to wash my clothes and have no problem. It's a subtle change--I can tell the difference in something, just don't have the words for it.. Maybe it has to do with skin sensitivity? Hope this helps! Haven't checked out the Resources section on this support site yet for pruritus. I bet it's there though.

September 1
A MySebDermTeam Member

You are treating the scalp, not the hair, I use my fingers with the shampoo, etc and rub into the scalp, with hair wet, then suds it up with my whole hand, spread the foaming suds all over, let sit for 5-10 minutes and let it do it's work, rinse well, luke warm water and, then apply coconut or castor oil to the bottom couple inches of my hair and comb through. Nights before washing I, leave the oils, all through my head,and wash. Out in the morning. Use a towel over the pillow. After. 2+ years my hair is almost to my waist and I have no itching. When I still feel wax on my scalp I wash it again on the. Scalp and use vinegar. No breakouts for 3 months now. Finally, I thought it would never end and. Had times I stayed in my room crying for 2 weeks at a time. Don't give up. And fight until you win.

September 5
MySebDermTeam

Could using a wet washcloth instead of a lukewarm shower be triggering itching attacks on your arms and legs with seborrheic dermatitis?

A wet washcloth may not be rinsing away irritants, oils, or yeast buildup as effectively as a proper shower. This can leave residue on the skin that triggers itching and flares. There are Show Full Answer

Could using a wet washcloth instead of a lukewarm shower be triggering itching attacks on your arms and legs with seborrheic dermatitis?

A wet washcloth may not be rinsing away irritants, oils, or yeast buildup as effectively as a proper shower. This can leave residue on the skin that triggers itching and flares. There are a few likely reasons this is happening:

- Incomplete cleansing — A washcloth may not remove Malassezia yeast buildup, which is a key trigger for seborrheic dermatitis symptoms
- Skin barrier disruption — Rubbing with a cloth without proper rinsing can irritate sensitive skin
- Moisture sitting on skin — Damp skin without a proper rinse and dry-off can create a warm, moist environment where yeast thrives and itching worsens

Returning to lukewarm showers with a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser, followed by patting skin dry and applying a moisturizer while skin is still slightly damp, is generally recommended for managing symptoms better.

August 27

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