7 Best Creams for Itchy Rash in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
If you've been experiencing persistent itchy skin and rashes, then a cream for itchy rash might be what you're looking for. Itchy rashes may be limited to small areas, such as the arms or legs, or they may spread throughout the whole body. Though they can be treated with simple home remedies such as a cool shower or a cold, wet cloth on the affected area, these may not offer lasting relief.
With all the available anti-itch creams on the market today, how will you know which is the best product to choose? Browse through our comprehensive buying guide with comments from Dr. Jarische Lao-Ang, plus our top 7 list of the best anti-itch creams, ranging from creams providing a mild soothing effect on the skin to products that address severe itchiness and inflammation.
Quick List - Top Creams for Itchy Rash
CeraVe
A Gentle Yet Fast-Acting and Moisturizing Anti-Itch Cream for All Skin Types
Dr. Jarische Lao-Ang, MD, DPDS is a board-certified dermatologist in Metro Manila, and achieving healthy skin is her goal in every skin journey she has with her patients. She also aims to raise awareness on healthy skin facts and skincare habits. She is a Diplomate of the Philippine Dermatological Society and is currently offering online consults for any skin, hair, and nail concerns. You can follow her on her Instagram and Facebook page to know more details about her practice!
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
- Know the Most Common Causes of Itchy Rashes
- How to Choose a Cream for Itchy Rash - Buying Guide
- Check the Ingredients and Choose a Cream Based on the Root Cause of the Itch1
- For Safety, See Whether There’s a Dermatologist-Approved or Dermatologist-Tested Label2
- If You Have Sensitive Skin, Steer Clear of Fragrances, Parabens, and Other Possible Irritants3
- Other Ways to Address Itchy Rashes
- Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Dr. Jarische Lao-Ang
- How Often Should You Apply the Cream for Itchy Rash?
- How to Know When You Should Consult a Doctor for Itchy Rash?
- How to Know if a Rash Is Contagious?
- What About if the Skin Isn’t Really Inflamed, but Just Itchy? What Ingredients Should I Look for?
- Take Care of Your Skin's Overall Health With These Moisturizing Products
- How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations
Know the Most Common Causes of Itchy Rashes
According to board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Jarishche Lao-Ang, one condition that can cause itchy rashes is eczema, which can also have many triggers. Three of the most common triggers include allergens, irritants, or atopy (skin asthma). To know which among these three is the root cause, knowing the background of the eczema is important.
Aside from eczema, itchy rashes may be due to dry skin and underlying medical concerns. At the end of the day, it is advisable to be evaluated by a dermatologist to better address this skin issue.
For any rash that is causing itchiness, it is important to determine the root cause in order to know what cream can address it. Some cases require prescription creams, while others can be remedied with over-the-counter creams.
If you have some specific health concerns or are unsure about your condition, it is best to consult with your medical provider for proper advice.
How to Choose a Cream for Itchy Rash - Buying Guide
After knowing the root cause of the itchy rash, selecting the right cream for your concern is essential. Make sure to check the ingredient list to see which type can best address itchiness, dryness, inflammation, and other skin issues. For more information, check out our buying guide below!
Check the Ingredients and Choose a Cream Based on the Root Cause of the Itch
Although there are many anti-itch creams on the market, they are generally categorized into three: moisturizers, topical steroids, and anesthetics. Read on to learn more about these different types.
Moisturizing Creams for Dry and Eczema-Prone Skin
Frequent rashes and flare-ups due to dry skin or dermatitis require regular applications of anti-itch creams. Look for moisturizing creams or lotions if you need itch relief but want to veer away from topical medications. Also, check if these products contain a balance of humectants, occlusives, and emollients to prevent flares from recurring.
Humectants such as glycerin and hyaluronic acid are hydrators that draw water to the skin. Emollients like ceramides and fatty acids fill in the gaps in the skin and strengthen the skin barrier. Occlusives like dimethicone, lanolin, and petroleum form a physical layer and seal in moisture.
Eczema is the general term for skin that is red and inflamed. It can be due to many possible triggers such as allergens, irritants, temperature changes, and harsh skincare ingredients. Itch is a common symptom of rash, so it is important to keep the skin moisturized to replenish its water and oil content.
A moisturizer combining humectants, emollients, and occlusives is helpful for eczema-prone skin. It is also best to opt for cream or ointment that is specially made for dry skin. However, a lotion would be a more practical choice if you need it for bigger areas of the body.
Topical Steroids Like Hydrocortisone for Severe Itching and Inflammation
One of the most common ingredients in anti-itch creams is hydrocortisone. This topical steroid with anti-inflammatory effects reduces severe redness, itching, and inflammation. It is often used for treating thin areas of the skin such as the eyes, face, and inguinal. And it is usually recommended for rashes that have an uncontrollable itch, are increasing in size, and are spreading in other areas.
You can also use this ingredient if the redness and itchiness do not disappear even after applying moisturizer. However, before using any topical steroid, it is best to consult a dermatologist for the proper prescription. That is because the choice of steroid cream depends on the type, severity, and site of the rash as well as the age of the patient.
Depending on the degree of eczema, some may warrant the use of topical steroids to control the inflammation. Topical steroids are classified according to strengthーClass I is the weakest, while Class VII is the most potent. Although they are classified according to strength, they are all equally effective in managing eczema. The classification helps healthcare experts to choose which type is most suitable for the degree of eczema one is experiencing.
Another factor to consider is age. For kids, a milder steroid (hydrocortisone and desonide) is preferred, while adults can use a more potent steroid if the eczema is very inflamed. Do remember to avoid self-medicating with topical steroids. If without proper guidance, overusing can have harmful effects on the skin, such as thinning of skin and formation of stretch marks.
Topical Anesthetics Such As Pramoxine and Benzocaine for Numbing the Affected Skin
How about if your skin is not severely inflamed, but the itchiness has become very distracting? In that case, you may try using creams containing pramoxine or benzocaine. These ingredients numb the affected area and immediately relieve irritation and itchiness. As a result, they can prevent the urge of scratching, especially for kids.
However, some creams contain menthol, which is a known irritant for the skin. It is essential to consider whether you are allergic to these substances or not since they may further aggravate the affected area. As an extra precaution, consult your doctor before using this type of cream to treat your itchy rash.
Topical anesthetics may help relieve the feeling of itchiness by suppressing the sensation. Some examples of topical anesthetics include topical prilocaine and pramoxine. Before using these, it is best to patch test first to see if your skin will react to them.
It is also important to note that topical prilocaine can have effects on a child's blood (methemoglobinemia). Hence, it is best to avoid using it on kids and to always consult a doctor first before deciding to apply topical prilocaine.
For Safety, See Whether There’s a Dermatologist-Approved or Dermatologist-Tested Label
If You Have Sensitive Skin, Steer Clear of Fragrances, Parabens, and Other Possible Irritants
Since you'll be applying anti-itch cream directly on your skin, it's critical to choose hypoallergenic products to ensure that they won't worsen your skin condition. Opt for fragrance-free products since synthetic fragrances can further trigger irritation, especially if you have allergy-prone and sensitive skin. Ironically, one of its side effects is the production of red and itchy rashーthe one thing you want to solve!
Parabens are actually deemed important preservatives in the formulation of skincare and body care products. But for people with sensitive skin and those with known allergies to parabens, it’s better to look for paraben-free creams. Other ingredients to avoid are exfoliants like AHA and BHA, which may dry out the skin.
If one has existing eczema, the skin is more sensitive, making it prone to irritation. It is best to avoid ingredients such as fragrances and solvent alcohols (denatured alcohol, ethanol, and isopropyl alcohol), as these can further aggravate eczema and cause skin dryness.
Note, however, that fatty alcohols such as cetearyl and cetyl alcohol are beneficial to the skin because they increase its hydration. Hence, not all alcohol in skincare is harmful!
10 Best Creams for Itchy Rash to Buy Online
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Type | Key Ingredients | Suitable for | Fragrance-Free | Paraben-Free | Steroid-Free | Net Weight/Volume | |||||
1 | Bepanthen™ Itch Relief Cream | | Hypoallergenic and Steroid-Free Itch Relief Cream for All Ages | Moisturizing Cream | Dexpanthenol, Glycerin | All Ages | unknown | 20 g | |||
2 | Eucerin Eczema Relief Body Cream | | Moisturizing Body Cream for Dry, Itchy, and Eczema-Prone Skin | Moisturizing Cream | Colloidal Oatmeal, Licochacone, Ceramide-3 | Adults, Children, Babies (3 Months and Up) | unknown | 8.0 oz (226 g) | |||
3 | Aveeno Anti-Itch Concentrated Lotion | | Nourishing Lotion for All-Around and Daily Use | Topical Anesthetic | Triple Oat Complex, Calamine, Pramaxine | Adults, Children (2 Years and Up) | 118mL | ||||
4 | CeraVe Itch Relief Moisturizing Cream | | A Gentle Yet Fast-Acting and Moisturizing Anti-Itch Cream for All Skin Types | Topical Anesthetic | Pramoxine Hydrochloride, Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramides | Adults, Children (2 Years and Up) | unknown | 12 oz. (340 g), 16 oz. (453 g) | |||
5 | Vanicream™ HC 1% Hydrocortisone Anti-Itch Cream | | Dermatologist-Tested and Effective Anti-Itch Relief for Sensitive Skin | Topical Steroid | Hydrocortisone Acetate | Adults, Children (2 Years and Up) | unknown | 2 oz. (57 g) | |||
6 | Chlorelief Calamine Anti-Itch and Rash Lotion | | First-Aid Lotion With Eucalyptus for Cooling | Topical Antihistamine | Calamine, Eucalyptus | unknown | unknown | 60 mL | |||
7 | Benadryl Extra Strength Itch Stopping Cream | | Addresses Allergy Symptoms and Skin Inflammation | Topical Antihistamine | Diphenhydramine Hydrochloride, Zinc Acetate | Adults, Children (2 Years and Up) | unknown | 1 oz. (28.3 g) | |||
Hypoallergenic and Steroid-Free Itch Relief Cream for All Ages
If you are still on the fence about trying anti-itch creams containing steroids, how about checking out this clinically-tested and steroid-free itch relief cream? It includes ingredients like glycerin and dexpanthenol that help restore the skin’s protective barrier and provide long-lasting hydration.
This cream calms and relieves itchy and inflamed skin due to extra dry skin, eczema, and other allergic dermatitis. It is also hypoallergenic and free of fragrance, colorants, and preservatives, making it suitable for all ages, including infants and children.
| Type | Moisturizing Cream |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Dexpanthenol, Glycerin |
| Suitable for | All Ages |
| Fragrance-Free | unknown |
| Paraben-Free | |
| Steroid-Free | |
| Net Weight/Volume | 20 g |
Moisturizing Body Cream for Dry, Itchy, and Eczema-Prone Skin
For those whose itchy, irritated, or dry skin has been a recurring problem, then you may want to try a product that's safe and gentle enough for everyday use. This body cream has been clinically proven to relieve itching, irritation, and dryness due to eczema and other causes. It contains three main ingredients to address this problem-colloidal oatmeal as a skin protectant, licochalcone to soothe irritated skin, and ceramide-3 to lock in moisture.
Clinical research also showed that 4 out of 5 children remained flare-free for 6 months upon using this product daily. It also reduced the incidence of flares for some participants. Among those who experienced flares during the study, their eczema symptoms lessened and eventually cleared. It is a fast-absorbing rich cream that moisturizes skin for as long as 24 hours. It is also dye-, fragrance-, and steroid-free, making it suitable for adults, children, and babies 3 months and older.
| Type | Moisturizing Cream |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Colloidal Oatmeal, Licochacone, Ceramide-3 |
| Suitable for | Adults, Children, Babies (3 Months and Up) |
| Fragrance-Free | unknown |
| Paraben-Free | |
| Steroid-Free | |
| Net Weight/Volume | 8.0 oz (226 g) |
Nourishing Lotion for All-Around and Daily Use
Formulated with calamine and a nourishing triple oat complex, this lotion not only soothes but also helps with rashes, dry skin, and minor irritations. Its external analgesic properties also ease pain and itching from minor burns, cuts, and scrapes, making it a versatile addition to your skincare essentials. This is a good alternative for those who want to relieve itchy rashes but want to veer away from topical steroids.
| Type | Topical Anesthetic |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Triple Oat Complex, Calamine, Pramaxine |
| Suitable for | Adults, Children (2 Years and Up) |
| Fragrance-Free | |
| Paraben-Free | |
| Steroid-Free | |
| Net Weight/Volume | 118mL |
A Gentle Yet Fast-Acting and Moisturizing Anti-Itch Cream for All Skin Types
This anti-itch cream provides fast and temporary relief from itching due to its 1% pramoxine hydrochloride content. It also makes skin healthier through its three key ingredients - niacinamide for calming the skin, hyaluronic acid for locking in moisture, and essential ceramides to help restore and maintain the skin barrier from irritants.
Moreover, it addresses itching caused by insect bites, sunburn, and minor skin irritations. It is also free from steroids, fragrances, and sulfates, making it gentle enough for face and body use for all skin types. A clinical study involving 34 participants showed that all experienced relief from itchiness within two minutes and lasted up to 8 hours. If that's not convincing enough, this product has also earned a nod of approval from the National Eczema Association as a temporary relief for eczema.
| Type | Topical Anesthetic |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Pramoxine Hydrochloride, Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramides |
| Suitable for | Adults, Children (2 Years and Up) |
| Fragrance-Free | unknown |
| Paraben-Free | |
| Steroid-Free | |
| Net Weight/Volume | 12 oz. (340 g), 16 oz. (453 g) |
Dermatologist-Tested and Effective Anti-Itch Relief for Sensitive Skin
If you have sensitive skin prone to flare-ups and itching caused by eczema, dermatitis, and psoriasis, this product might just be the right fit for you. Its 1% hydrocortisone content is sure to provide fast relief from itching caused by minor irritation, inflammation, insect bites, and rashes due to common irritants like jewelry, detergents, and cosmetics.
This cream is free of dyes, fragrances, lanolin, parabens, formaldehyde, and gluten. It is also non-comedogenic and dermatologist-tested. However, since it contains a mild topical steroid, it is better to consult your doctor before using it. Make sure to also follow the proper application procedure for this product.
| Type | Topical Steroid |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Hydrocortisone Acetate |
| Suitable for | Adults, Children (2 Years and Up) |
| Fragrance-Free | unknown |
| Paraben-Free | |
| Steroid-Free | |
| Net Weight/Volume | 2 oz. (57 g) |
First-Aid Lotion With Eucalyptus for Cooling
This product is a great alternative for those who'd rather not use anti-itch creams with steroids. It contains calamine, a mild yet effective ingredient in providing instant relief from rashes caused by insect bites, sunburn, skin asthma, prickly heat, and psoriasis. But more than that, it uses eucalyptus to provide an instant mild cooling and calming effect on the skin.
It also contains an efficient anti-allergy or antihistamine ingredient that addresses the skin's negative reaction to food, heat, and other factors. This handy bottle is also easy to carry wherever you go, perfect for those who need a first line of defense for itchy rashes and irritated skin.
| Type | Topical Antihistamine |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Calamine, Eucalyptus |
| Suitable for | unknown |
| Fragrance-Free | unknown |
| Paraben-Free | |
| Steroid-Free | |
| Net Weight/Volume | 60 mL |
Addresses Allergy Symptoms and Skin Inflammation
Features and benefits:
- Provides quick relief from pain and itching due to insect bites, burns, sunburn, and allergens from kasoy and mango trees
- Helps to dry up the oozing and weeping associated with rashes
- Ideal for outdoor activities
Reviews mention:
Users say this cream gives fast, effective relief for everything from mosquito bites to mild burns and rashes. Many love that it’s easy to use, dries quickly, and feels cool on the skin, making it great for traveling, hiking, camping, or playing outdoors. It’s also described as better than regular cortisone by some. Suitable for adults and children aged 2 and older.
| Type | Topical Antihistamine |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Diphenhydramine Hydrochloride, Zinc Acetate |
| Suitable for | Adults, Children (2 Years and Up) |
| Fragrance-Free | unknown |
| Paraben-Free | |
| Steroid-Free | |
| Net Weight/Volume | 1 oz. (28.3 g) |
Other Ways to Address Itchy Rashes
In some cases, you may just want to have an anti-itch cream that you can regularly use, especially if your skin is prone to irritation and itching. Read on to know which ingredients Dr. Jarische Lao-Ang recommends for this skin concern.
Quickly Control Itch by Cooling the Affected Area
Cooling ingredients such as menthol, camphor, and calamine can help relieve itchiness. Inflammation from eczema can trigger warmth over the affected area, and cooling it down can help control the itch.
However, just like any other ingredient, if one is allergic to these, avoid using them. One option is to put the moisturizer inside the refrigerator to give a soothing sensation when applied.
Looking for a Natural Alternative? Try Oatmeal-Based Products
Creams, ointment, body wash, and lotion with colloidal oatmeal are recommended for eczema-prone skin to prevent flare-ups and soothe itchiness caused by rashes. This is thanks to its anti-inflammatory property, which restores the damaged skin barrier by keeping the skin well-moisturized.
Homemade oatmeal baths are also helpful in relieving eczema, especially for kids. People with dry skin can benefit from colloidal oatmeal, too, as it helps lock in moisture and balances the skin's natural pH level.
Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Dr. Jarische Lao-Ang
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Jarische Lao-Ang.
How Often Should You Apply the Cream for Itchy Rash?
For moisturizers, apply them as often as needed to relieve the itch, but usually, two to three times a day may be enough. But for people with dry and dehydrated skin, better to apply them more frequently, around three to four times a day.
As for topical steroids, the usual limit is applying them for two weeks. Again, the frequency and duration depend on the severity of the concern, the area affected, and the affected person's age. Avoid abusing the use of topical steroids.
How to Know When You Should Consult a Doctor for Itchy Rash?
The following are signs that a rash must be seen by a doctor:
- Redness
- Increasing in number and size
- Warm to the touch
- Signs of infection (yellowish, pus-like fluid, pain)
- Causing distress (from extreme itch)
- Spreading to other areas
- Recurrent
- Does not respond to plain moisturizers or mild topical steroids
How to Know if a Rash Is Contagious?
The following are signs that a rash is contagious:
- Yellowish, watery discharge (yellowish crust, pus)
- Pain
- Warmth in the affected area
- Fever
Be careful as any untreated skin infection can go deep and affect other areas of the body. Hence, it is recommended to consult a doctor at once for proper medication.
What About if the Skin Isn’t Really Inflamed, but Just Itchy? What Ingredients Should I Look for?
Take Care of Your Skin's Overall Health With These Moisturizing Products
One leading cause of itchy rashes is extremely dehydrated skin. What better way to get to the root of your problem than to keep your skin healthy and hydrated? Check out our articles below to know more about moisturizing products specially formulated for your needs.
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Author: R. Enrera
Editor, Re-editor: R. Umlas, Aprille Jarcia
How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
Top 5 Creams for Itchy Rash
No. 1: Bepanthen™｜Itch Relief Cream
No. 2: Eucerin｜Eczema Relief Body Cream
No. 3: Aveeno｜Anti-Itch Concentrated Lotion
No. 4: CeraVe｜Itch Relief Moisturizing Cream
No. 5: Vanicream™｜HC 1% Hydrocortisone Anti-Itch Cream
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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