Evidence supporting the use of: Lubricant
For the health condition: Itching
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4
Lubricants, particularly topical formulations such as emollients and moisturizers, are commonly used to manage itching (pruritus), especially when it is associated with dry skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or xerosis. The scientific rationale behind their use is well established. Lubricants help to restore the skin barrier by providing a protective film over the skin, reducing transepidermal water loss, and maintaining hydration. This barrier restoration is critical, as dry and compromised skin is more prone to irritation and itching. Clinical guidelines from dermatological associations routinely recommend the use of emollients and moisturizers as first-line treatments for pruritus associated with dryness. Several randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews indicate that consistent use of lubricants can significantly reduce the intensity and frequency of itching in conditions such as atopic dermatitis and senile xerosis. Although lubricants do not address itching due to systemic causes or certain dermatological diseases, their effectiveness in alleviating itch related to skin dryness is well validated. In summary, the use of lubricants for itching has a strong scientific foundation, particularly when the underlying cause is related to skin barrier dysfunction.
Other ingredients used for Itching
aloe veramyrobalan
betel
bisabolol
chamomile
turmeric
Japanese sophora
licorice root
marshmallow
peppermint oil
scrophularia root
slippery elm bark
vitamin D
vitamin E
zinc
bentonite
chickweed
typhonium
ferula assafoetida
yarrow
sweetgums
oriental arborvitae
sheep's sorrel
camphor oil
white oak
melaleuca alternifolia
geranium
Avens
Apple Cider Vinegar
Agrimony
Anamu
Abrus
American Liverleaf
Asam gelugor
Allantoin
Alsonia scholaris
Argan nut oil
Amor seco
Arani
Arisaema
Asarum sieboldii
benzyl alcohol
Babchi
Baliospermum
Baphicacanthus cusia
Balsam
Barleria
Brazillian peppertree
Black Nightshade
Calendula
Calotropis gigantea
Clerodendrum trichotomum
coconut oil
Colloid
Cinquefoil
Cocoa Butter
Carry Me Seed
Cornflower
Cajuput
Catechu
Cedar
Calamus
Cyanthillium cinereum
Castor Oil
Carthamus
Copaiba Oil
Citronella
Didymocarpus
DIVI-DIVI
Dwarf Nettle
Davilla rugosa
Dendramine
European Elder
Erodium cicutarium
Emu Oil
Elephant's Head
Euphorbia
Eugenol
Mallow
Oak
Spikenard
Snakeroot (unspecified)
Sandalwood
Sumac
Vervain
Other health conditions supported by Lubricant
AbrasionsAnal Fistula or Fissure
Dermatitis
Diaper Rash
Eczema
Injuries
Itching
Itching (rectal)
Lesions
Oral Surgery
Rashes and Hives
Scars / Scar Tissue
Scratches and Abrasions
Skin (dry and/or flaky)
Skin Care (general)
Surgery (healing from)
Ulcerations (external)
Vaginal Dryness
Vaginitis
Wounds and Sores