Q: My husband's scalp, forehead, and some other parts of his body itch all the time. He has seen his primary-care doctor, who ran blood tests and then sent him to a dermatologist. Both told him that at 75 years old, it was an age-related issue and that he had to just "live with it." He has tried everything on the market to no avail. Can you help, or does he have to live with it? All help is appreciated.
— June, Nevada
A: As people get older, their skin can certainly become drier and more prone to itching. But that doesn't mean that your husband — or anyone else, for that matter — should have to live with constant itchiness. Since your husband has already seen his primary-care doctor to rule out any health conditions, like eczema or psoriasis, that could cause skin irritation and itching — and if he has not started any new medications that might have brought on the issue — I'd suggest that your husband begin to make some lifestyle changes that can help reduce the itching. The first thing I'd suggest is that he take fewer showers or baths throughout the week and spend less time under the hot water when he does bathe, because that can bring on itchiness. I'd also recommend that he not wash his hair as frequently and that he use a moisturizing shampoo when he does. It's important that people prone to skin irritation and itchiness use a body moisturizing oil like olive oil right after they get out of the shower or bath. Ideally, this moisturizer should be applied while the skin is still wet to lock in moisture. Your husband can pat his skin dry after applying the moisturizer. Between baths, I'd recommend using the oil at least once a day. Quite possibly Neutrogena (a light sesame formula) would be ideal for your husband's skin. A qualified dermatologist can make further recommendations to help reduce the itchiness. Good luck!
Learn more in the Everyday Health Senior Health Center.
Last Updated: 05/29/2009
An expert in senior health, Dr. Robert N. Butler was a gerontologist and a professor of Geriatrics and Adult Development at Mount Sinai Medical Center before passing away from acute leukemia at the age of 83.
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