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1
Best Overall
Cortizone 10 Maximum Strength Ointment
1
Best Overall
Cortizone 10 Maximum Strength Ointment
This is a good anti-itch cream to keep on hand in your medicine cabinet. “For mosquito bites or mild cases of poison ivy, the product I recommend most often is hydrocortisone formulated as a single active ingredient, which can be found in this ointment,” says Dr. Katta.
2
Best for dry or sunburnt skin
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream for Itch Relief
2
Best for dry or sunburnt skin
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream for Itch Relief
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This gentle cream is a good option for other itchy conditions, such as dry skin, sunburn, and irritation due to insect bites, according to Dr. Katta.
3
Best for dry, sensitive skin
Aveeno Eczema Therapy Daily Moisturizing Cream
3
Best for dry, sensitive skin
Aveeno Eczema Therapy Daily Moisturizing Cream
Aveeno anti-itch cream is a top pick to stymie scratchiness. Dr. Katta recommends this cream, which contains soothing colloidal oatmeal, for those with dry skin in need of a strong moisturizer.
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4
Best for killing germs
Campho-Phenique Pain & Itch Relief Antiseptic Gel
4
Best for killing germs
Campho-Phenique Pain & Itch Relief Antiseptic Gel
This medicated gel is a good option to instantly relieve itching from bug bites and stings, irritated skin, and even minor burns. The antiseptic properties also help kill germs and prevent infection.
5
Best for allergy symptoms
Benadryl Itch Stopping Cream Extra Strength
5
Best for allergy symptoms
Benadryl Itch Stopping Cream Extra Strength
This histamine-blocking cream can bring soothing relief to itching caused by outdoor aggravators, like bug bites and poison ivy.
6
Best cooling anti-itch cream
Gold Bond Medicated Anti-Itch Lotion
6
Best cooling anti-itch cream
Gold Bond Medicated Anti-Itch Lotion
Gold Bond is another good option for outdoor-related itching, and with menthol as its active ingredient, you’ll quickly notice a cooling sensation of relief upon application.
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7
Best Multipurpose Anti-Itch Cream
Aveeno 1% Hydrocortisone Anti-Itch Relief Cream
7
Best Multipurpose Anti-Itch Cream
Aveeno 1% Hydrocortisone Anti-Itch Relief Cream
Formulated with 1% hydrocortisone, this cream is effective for stopping any itch. You’ll also get the added bonus ingredient of triple oat complex to relieve the dryness and irritation that can come with scratchy skin.
8
Best for eczema
Curél Itch Defense Calming Body Lotion
8
Best for eczema
Curél Itch Defense Calming Body Lotion
If your main issue is dryness, a moisturizing lotion may be all you need. This one, approved by the National Eczema Association, aims to restore the skin’s barrier to prevent further irritation and can also provide relief from eczema.
9
Best for moisturizing
Eucerin Skin Calming Cream
9
Best for moisturizing
Eucerin Skin Calming Cream
This oatmeal-enriched cream provides all-day relief from dry, itchy skin. It goes on so silky smooth and isn’t sticky, so you may want to make this your daily body moisturizer all year.
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10
Best for daily use
Aveeno Anti-Itch Concentrated Lotion
10
Best for daily use
Aveeno Anti-Itch Concentrated Lotion
Containing triple oat complex and natural colloidal oatmeal, this lotion can bring relief from itching and rashes caused by poison ivy, insect bites, and other causes, in addition to providing relief from general skin itching and dryness.
11
Best for bug bites
Cortizone 10 Maximum Strength Creme With Aloe
11
Best for bug bites
Cortizone 10 Maximum Strength Creme With Aloe
Dr. Zeichner recommends applying this 1% hydrocortisone cream to bug bits twice a day to reduce itch and swelling. This cream also contains aloe vera to help calm your skin for up to 10 hours.
If you’re looking for an anti-itch solution for sensitive areas (like your vagina and anus), Dr. Zeichner recommends this ointment containing zinc oxide. Zinc has anti-inflammatory properties and will help coat the surface of your skin and prevent chafing. FYI, this is the same type of cream used to treat diaper rash.
Andi Breitowich is a Chicago-based writer and graduate student at Northwestern Medill. She’s a mass consumer of social media and cares about women’s rights, holistic wellness, and non-stigmatizing reproductive care. As a former collegiate pole vaulter, she has a love for all things fitness and is currently obsessed with Peloton Tread workouts and hot yoga.
Contributing Writer
Emilia Benton is a Houston-based freelance writer and editor. In addition to Runner’s World, she has contributed health, fitness and wellness content to Women’s Health, SELF, Prevention, Healthline, and the Houston Chronicle, among other publications. She is also an 11-time marathoner, a USATF Level 1-certified running coach, and an avid traveler.