Talk with your doctor about over-the-counter and prescription medicines, such as moisturizers, cooling lotions, creams, and antihistamines. These medicines may help relieve skin symptoms, including heat sensitivity, dryness, cracking, flaking, and severe itching.

• Oatmeal baths may feel soothing to your irritated skin.
• Bathing or showering in lukewarm (not hot) water with mild soap or cleanser also helps soothe the skin.
  • Bubble-bath products and after-bath powders may cause your skin to itch more, so it is best to avoid using them.
• After your bath:
  • Rinse yourself completely and pat (do not rub) your skin lightly to dry.
  • Apply moisturizer, which can help prevent dryness and itching. Talk with your doctor or nurse about a moisturizer that you can use.

• Try using a very mild laundry detergent.
  • Some detergents and fabric softeners may irritate sensitive skin.
• Try adding vinegar (1 teaspoon per quart of water) to your laundry rinse cycle.
  • This helps remove all the soap from your clothes, which also may help lessen skin irritation.

Wearing loose-fitting, lightweight clothing can help cut down on skin irritation and itching.

• Apply ice or a cool, damp washcloth to areas of your skin that are especially itchy.
• Rub and apply pressure to your skin — both are better for your skin than scratching.
• Talk with your doctor about medicines that may help relieve itching, such as antihistamines or antianxiety medicines.

For some people with CTCL, small amounts of sunlight may be good for the skin. But too much sun can damage the skin. Here are some tips that can help protect your skin from the sun:

• Use sunscreen.
• Wear a cap or hat with a brim, long sleeves, and long pants year-round.
• Wear UV-blocking sunglasses, especially if you receive light therapy as part of your treatment.