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 10 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
Vanicream
Gentle Moisturizing Cream for Dry, Sensitive, Allergy-Prone Skin
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
Every mybest article is crafted with hours of in-depth research and interviews with experts. Each month, we are continually expanding our database of products based on our research. By emphasizing user insight and reliable information, we deliver trustworthy content to readers.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | |||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Type | Key Ingredients | Suitable for | Fragrance-Free | Paraben-Free | Steroid-Free | Net Weight/Volume | |||||
1 | CeraVe Itch Relief Moisturizing Cream | ![]() | A Gentle Yet Fast-Acting and Moisturizing Anti-Itch Cream for All Skin Types | Moisturizing Cream, Topical Anesthetic | Pramoxine Hydrochloride, Ceramides, Niacinamide | Adults, Children (2 Years and Up) | 12 oz | ||||
2 | Aveeno Skin Relief Body Lotion | ![]() | Fragrance-Free Lotion for Soothing Very Dry, Sensitive Skin | Moisturizing Cream | Colloidal Oatmeal, Glycerin, Dimethicone | Adults, Children (2 Years and Up) | 71 mL | ||||
3 | Vanicream Moisturizing Cream for Sensitive Skin | ![]() | Gentle Moisturizing Cream for Dry, Sensitive, Allergy-Prone Skin | Moisturizing Cream | Petrolatum, Glycerin, Sorbitol | All Ages | 453 g | ||||
4 | Bepanthen Itch Relief Cream | ![]() | Hypoallergenic and Steroid-Free Itch Relief Cream for All Ages | Topical Antipruritic, Moisturizing Cream | Dexpanthenol, Glycerin, Lipid Lamella Technology | Adults, Children (2 Years and Up) | 20 g | ||||
5 | La Roche-Posay Lipikar Baume AP+ | ![]() | Triple-Repair Balm for Extremely Dry, Eczema-Prone, Itchy Skin | Moisturizing Cream | Shea Butter, Niacinamide, Glycerin, La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water | All Ages | 400 mL | ||||
6 | Cetaphil Pro Eczema Soothing Moisturizer | ![]() | Eczema-Relief Moisturizer for Itchy, Irritated, Sensitive Skin | Moisturizing Cream | Colloidal Oatmeal, Ceramide, Allantoin | Adults, Children (3 Months and Up) | 296 mL | ||||
7 | SUU BALM Ceramide Moisturizer Rapid Itch Relief | ![]() | Cooling Moisturizer With Ceramides for Fast Itch Relief and Skin Barrier Repair | Moisturizing Cream | Menthol, Ceramides, Shea Butter, Safflower Seed Oil | Adults, Children (3 Years and Up) | 75 mL | ||||
8 | Eucerin Eczema Relief Cream | ![]() | Colloidal Oatmeal Cream for Calming Eczema-Prone, Itchy Skin | Moisturizing Cream | Colloidal Oatmeal, Ceramide-3, Licochalcone A | Adults, Children (3 Months and Up) | 8 oz | ||||
9 | Mustela Stelatopia Emollient Cream | ![]() | Specially Formulated Eczema Cream for Babies and Toddlers | Moisturizing Cream | Sunflower Seed Oil Distillate, Avocado Perseose, Glycerin | Babies (0+), Children | 40 mL | ||||
10 | Physiogel Hypoallergenic Calming Relief AI Cream | ![]() | Anti-Itch Cream for Soothing Irritated, Sensitive, and Dry Skin | Moisturizing Cream | Palmitamide MEA (PEA), Glycerin, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride | Adults, Children (6 Months and Up) | 50 mL |
Features and benefits:
Users report fast-acting itch relief, especially for eczema flare-ups, dry patches, and skin reactions. Some say the cream provides noticeable comfort within minutes of application, even on sensitive or compromised skin. The non-greasy texture and gentle formula make it a staple for those prone to irritation or allergic skin conditions. Many appreciate that it’s steroid-free and doesn’t have a strong medicinal smell.
Type | Moisturizing Cream, Topical Anesthetic |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Pramoxine Hydrochloride, Ceramides, Niacinamide |
Suitable for | Adults, Children (2 Years and Up) |
Fragrance-Free | |
Paraben-Free | |
Steroid-Free | |
Net Weight/Volume | 12 oz |
Features and benefits:
Reviewers frequently highlight the lotion’s soothing effect on very dry, itchy, or eczema-prone skin. Many appreciate its lightweight yet nourishing texture that doesn’t feel sticky or greasy after application. Those with fragrance sensitivities also commend its neutral scent and gentle formulation. It’s often described as a dependable daily moisturizer for sensitive skin, even during colder months.
Type | Moisturizing Cream |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Colloidal Oatmeal, Glycerin, Dimethicone |
Suitable for | Adults, Children (2 Years and Up) |
Fragrance-Free | |
Paraben-Free | |
Steroid-Free | |
Net Weight/Volume | 71 mL |
This cream is widely praised by people with highly sensitive or allergy-prone skin. Many say it helped calm eczema, rosacea, and irritation from over-exfoliation or harsh skincare. Its thick but non-greasy formula is especially favored for dry areas like hands, face, and elbows. Reviewers also appreciate that it’s free from nearly all potential irritants, making it a go-to for both adults and children with reactive skin.
Type | Moisturizing Cream |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Petrolatum, Glycerin, Sorbitol |
Suitable for | All Ages |
Fragrance-Free | |
Paraben-Free | |
Steroid-Free | |
Net Weight/Volume | 453 g |
Features and benefits:
Users consistently mention how effective this cream is at calming itchiness, especially for mild eczema, allergies, or post-inflammatory irritation. The lightweight, non-greasy formula absorbs quickly and feels soothing on application. Parents also recommend it for children’s dry or irritated skin. It’s often favored as a gentle alternative to steroid creams, with many reporting visible improvement in skin condition after regular use.
Type | Topical Antipruritic, Moisturizing Cream |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Dexpanthenol, Glycerin, Lipid Lamella Technology |
Suitable for | Adults, Children (2 Years and Up) |
Fragrance-Free | |
Paraben-Free | |
Steroid-Free | |
Net Weight/Volume | 20 g |
Highly rated by those with chronic dryness, eczema, or sensitive skin conditions, this balm is often described as a lifesaver for irritated or itchy skin. Reviewers mention noticeable improvement in skin smoothness, reduced flare-ups, and long-lasting comfort without greasiness. Many use it as a daily moisturizer for the whole family, especially in colder months or post-shower routines. Its soothing formula is also praised for calming red, inflamed patches quickly.
Type | Moisturizing Cream |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Shea Butter, Niacinamide, Glycerin, La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water |
Suitable for | All Ages |
Fragrance-Free | |
Paraben-Free | |
Steroid-Free | |
Net Weight/Volume | 400 mL |
People with eczema and sensitive skin often call this a go-to moisturizer for flare-up days and daily maintenance. Reviewers say it absorbs well and calms itch and redness quickly, without leaving a greasy residue. It’s often recommended by dermatologists and appreciated for its gentle, fragrance-free formula. Parents also mention it works well on children’s eczema patches and helps reduce scratching at night.
Type | Moisturizing Cream |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Colloidal Oatmeal, Ceramide, Allantoin |
Suitable for | Adults, Children (3 Months and Up) |
Fragrance-Free | |
Paraben-Free | |
Steroid-Free | |
Net Weight/Volume | 296 mL |
Reviewers consistently praise the quick itch relief this moisturizer provides, especially during flare-ups from eczema, heat rash, or insect bites. The menthol offers an immediate cooling sensation that many say brings comfort within seconds. Users also appreciate the lightweight yet hydrating formula, and it’s often used as a daily body moisturizer for both adults and children with sensitive skin.
Type | Moisturizing Cream |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Menthol, Ceramides, Shea Butter, Safflower Seed Oil |
Suitable for | Adults, Children (3 Years and Up) |
Fragrance-Free | |
Paraben-Free | |
Steroid-Free | |
Net Weight/Volume | 75 mL |
Users dealing with eczema and chronic dryness often describe this cream as a staple in their skincare routine. It’s praised for its gentle, soothing formula that noticeably reduces itching and inflammation. Many report seeing less redness and fewer flare-ups with consistent use, especially on sensitive areas like elbows, hands, and behind the knees. Its non-greasy feel and pediatrician-recommended status also make it a popular option for children.
Type | Moisturizing Cream |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Colloidal Oatmeal, Ceramide-3, Licochalcone A |
Suitable for | Adults, Children (3 Months and Up) |
Fragrance-Free | |
Paraben-Free | |
Steroid-Free | |
Net Weight/Volume | 8 oz |
Features and benefits:
Parents frequently mention this as a trusted product for babies and toddlers with eczema-prone skin. The gentle, plant-based formula is appreciated for calming flare-ups without harsh ingredients. It’s often praised for reducing dryness and irritation after just a few applications. Many reviewers also love that it absorbs quickly, doesn’t feel greasy, and is safe enough to use multiple times daily — even on infants.
Type | Moisturizing Cream |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Sunflower Seed Oil Distillate, Avocado Perseose, Glycerin |
Suitable for | Babies (0+), Children |
Fragrance-Free | |
Paraben-Free | |
Steroid-Free | |
Net Weight/Volume | 40 mL |
Many users with highly sensitive or eczema-prone skin say this cream brings instant comfort during flare-ups. It’s often described as gentle but effective, reducing redness and itch after just a few uses. Some report long-term improvements in skin texture and hydration when used daily. Its non-greasy texture and hypoallergenic formula make it a favorite for both the face and body, especially during dry seasons or post-treatment recovery.
Type | Moisturizing Cream |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Palmitamide MEA (PEA), Glycerin, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride |
Suitable for | Adults, Children (6 Months and Up) |
Fragrance-Free | |
Paraben-Free | |
Steroid-Free | |
Net Weight/Volume | 50 mL |
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.
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.
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.
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Jarische Lao-Ang.
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.
The following are signs that a rash must be seen by a doctor:
The following are signs that a rash is contagious:
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.
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.
10 Best Face Moisturizers for Dry Skin in the Philippines 2025 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
10 Best Moisturizing Soaps in the Philippines 2025 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
10 Best Lotions for Dry Skin in the Philippines 2025 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
10 Best Hand Creams in the Philippines 2025 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
Author: R. Enrera
Editor, Re-editor: R. Umlas, Aprille Jarcia
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.
No. 1: CeraVe|Itch Relief Moisturizing Cream
No. 2: Aveeno|Skin Relief Body Lotion
No. 3: Vanicream|Moisturizing Cream for Sensitive Skin
No. 4: Bepanthen|Itch Relief Cream
No. 5: La Roche-Posay|Lipikar Baume AP+
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
Beauty
Health
Household goods
PCs and laptops
Home appliances and electronics
Cameras
Food and drinks
Kitchen supplies
Clothing
Shoes
Accessories
Mom and baby
Interior and furniture
Hobbies
Outdoor
DIY and tools
Sports and fitness
Pets
Books, CDs, and DVDs
Games
Cars and motorcycles
Gifts
Home improvement and tools
Smartphones and tablets
Banking and finance
Insurance
Audio
Smartphone applications
Others