Dermatographia

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WHAT IS DERMATOGRAPHIA?

Dermatographia is a condition also known as skin writing. When people who have dermatographia lightly scratch their skin, the scratches redden into raised welts similar to hives. It affects about 5% of the world population, every age, race, and class.

There is no cure, but with some experimentation you can learn what your triggers are–what causes your skin to become extra sensitive–and then avoid those triggers to find relief. Some people choose to take antihistamines for their condition, but I believe with patience and perseverance we can treat our dermatographia naturally, without antihistamines taxing our system. Check out the posts below for more information about dermatographia, including tips to ease the itch, how to do an elimination diet to help heal dermatographia, and whether or not dermatographs can get tattooed (yes, we can :-). Click here and you’ll see even more posts where I feature other skin writers and their art. There’s lots of information and inspiration to be found… Be sure to read the comments too for more helpful tips!

To find out if you are one of the 5% who has dermatographia, lightly scratch your arm with your fingernail. If a welt shows up in about 5 minutes or so, congratulations, you’re a skin writer!

PRODUCTS I RECOMMEND TO HELP EASE THE ITCH:

I often get asked which products I use to help keep the itch away. If you’re looking for recommendations, here are a few things that are good for those of us with sensitive skin.

[Note, this page contains affiliate links. Although I encourage you to buy local whenever possible, if you use these links to purchase the products I recommend, I may receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) which helps keep the Skintome community alive. Thank you for your support! <3 ]

Dr. Bronner’s Unscented Castille soap is great if you’re looking for a liquid soap. This works well for hand washing and in the shower. You can buy the large bottles and refill these foaming soap containers for an economical and low waste option.

If you’re looking for a bar soap, it also comes in bar form. Personally I prefer bar soap in the shower and liquid soap for the sink. Dr. Bronner’s also makes scented soaps that aren’t too overwhelming. I’m fond of the lavender and eucalyptus myself. They smell amazing!

As for laundry detergent, Clean People makes one that is all natural, good for sensitive skin, comes in sheets so you’re not buying plastic and it works great. If you’re looking for a powder detergent, Rockin Green makes one that also works well.

If you’re looking for a stain remover, try this one by Puracy. It contains enzymes that help lift stains. I think it does a great job getting clothes clean, and it’s not full of chemicals!

Please don’t use dryer sheets! They’re toxic and just make extra garbage. You really don’t need them if you use something like these wool laundry balls when drying clothes. These last for a really long time–you just keep them in the dryer and use them with every load. Bonus: they help your clothes dry faster to save on energy use!

My favorite moisturizers are sweet almond oil and coconut oil. Sweet almond oil is already in a liquid state so is super easy to use–I use it to wash my face and in the shower I use it like soap to wash my body. Regular coconut oil is awesome, I love the Dr. Bronner’s kind. Liquid coconut oil is easier to use in the shower and as moisturizer (plus the kind I recommend is organic and great to cook with). But both work well!

If you prefer lotion, Babo makes a nice one that doesn’t irritate my skin. I use it every single day to help keep the itch at bay, even on my young son. If you prefer something with oatmeal, try this one, also by Babo (they’re one of my very favorite brands). For extra moisture, Earth Mama makes a great salve that is very soothing to irritated skin (yes it’s technically diaper balm but it’s the best for super dry skin). Shea butter is another great moisturizer that is unscented and very nonirritating. I love using shea butter on my elbows if they get rough.

I finally found a deodorant that works really well (for a natural deodorant) and smells divine! It’s Magsol Lavender deodorant–definitely try it if you’re looking for something new. Bonus, it contains magnesium so you’re getting a supplement every time you use it!

If you’re looking for a great shaving cream for sensitive skin, try Dr. Bronner’s organic shaving soap. It’s the only thing I’ve found that doesn’t irritate my legs/armpits when I shave them. I do prefer the unscented variety but they have nice scented options as well. It takes some getting used to because it’s not shaving cream (it’s kind if liquidy), but it still lathers well. I use Schick Quattro razors for sensitive skin and haven’t had any issues. Just make sure you change the razors regularly. Sharp blades are less likely to irritate.

To moisturize my face I use Cocokind’s chia seed oil and, because my skin is really dry, sometimes I follow that with this amazing lavender and myrrh face cream by Fatco. I also love Cocokind’s moisturizing stick–you can use it on lips, face, anywhere!

As for eye cream, I really like Mad Hippie a lot. I also like this one by ACURE. The ACURE eye cream also works great as a hand moisturizer. They’re a great brand!

If you have dry, rough skin like I do, try the Exfoliating Acid Potion made by Moon Juice. I know I know, it seems counter intuitive to put something containing acid on sensitive skin but trust me, this stuff is magic! My skin has never felt so soft. After the Acid Potion I layer on their serum and face cream, which smell and feel divine. Use this link for $20 off if you’d like to try it for yourself.

I really like this toothpaste made by Jason. The flavor is good and it doesn’t contain any sketchy SLS cleansers. They also have one without fluoride if that’s more your thing. Or I also like this activated charcoal one by Hello to whiten teeth. Hello also makes one for kids that my son used when he was little. It’s watermelon flavored, yummmm!

The best sunblock, in my opinion, is by Babo. I also like Badger sunblock. Babo makes a great tinted one for the face too, as does MyChelle. The tinted one can be a bit drying, so I mostly use ACURE un-tinted sunblock for my face, then layer on the Babo if I need a little extra coverage. They don’t leave a white residue on your skin like some zinc sunblocks, and doesn’t contain toxic chemical filters like oxybenzone. To find out more about chemicals in sunscreens, check out this article on the Environmental Working Group site.

If you use brown mascara, try this one by Just For Redheads (even if you’re not a redhead lol). Mineral Fusion makes a great black one if you prefer black. I don’t use too much makeup myself, but do like Vapour foundation on those rare occasions I need something on my face. I’ve also heard BeautyCounter and RMS make excellent all natural options.

For those of us who menstruate, be careful with the pads and tampons you use. They’re usually made with bleached and chemically treated cotton that is terrible for your body. I recommend using a menstrual cup, which takes a little getting used to but is actually way better and easier than tampons (also much much cheaper)! If you prefer to use pads and/or tampons, please be sure to use organic ones like these from Natracare and Cora since conventional products contain chemicals that leach into your precious body parts.

For irritated skin, like blisters and minor cuts, try some calendula salve. It also helps the itchiness of bug bites go away, as does tea tree oil.

As for shampoo, I finally found one that doesn’t irritate my skin! It’s another ACURE product, the argan and pumpkin one I find to be the most nourishing/gentle for my scalp.

I also brush my hair nightly with a wooden bristled brush to distribute my scalp’s natural oils, and massage my scalp afterwards to keep my hair from getting greasy. Brushing and massaging help get rid of any lingering dirt from the day, and distribute your natural oils.

In addition to using all-natural products for your hair and skin, I think probiotics are super helpful for easing the itch. There are many different probiotics out there, but I’ve found PB8 makes a good one that doesn’t contain any dairy. Just Thrive is also a great probiotic to try. And the nice thing is, they don’t need to be refrigerated. It’s an affordable option too! If you need something beyond probiotics, like a little extra help with digestion, try Atrantil. It’s a supplement designed to help relieve bloating, abdominal discomfort and changes in bowel habits (constipation/diarrhea) by getting rid of problem bacteria in the small bowel. It’s helped me tremendously! Plus it contains beneficial plant compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, called polyphenols. I’ll take all the anti-inflammatory help I can get please :=)

I found a really awesome bone broth collagen supplement from Paleo Valley that I think helps my skin stay supple and less sensitive. They guarantee all of their products so you can return them if they don’t work out for you.

If you’re a tea fan (especially matcha), check out Pique. Their Matcha is the best I’ve ever had and the Rooibos and Hibiscus are also delicious. Plus they make a hydrating electrolyte mix that contains hyaluronic acid to keep your skin glowing. Pique makes drinking tea fun! They don’t use teabags, just powder (they call it tea crystals), and a lot of them can be mixed with hot or cold water. I don’t know what it is about teabags but they just annoy me. Pique’s tea crystals are much easier! Use this link for $10 off your first purchase!

Speaking of hydration, electrolytes are soooo helpful in keeping me hydrated, especially when I’m exercising. My favorite kind is LMNT because it tastes delicious and comes in fun flavors. I only use half of a stick each day, so they last twice as long (a whole stick is too much sodium at once for my body). Use this link to get a free sample pack with any purchase so you can try all the flavors! My favorites are grapefruit and watermelon.

Sleep is another thing that’s super important when you’re healing (and always really). I’ve found that in order to sleep my best, I need to wear earplugs and a sleep mask. Those two things have helped improve my sleep immensely! Loop earplugs are the best ever. Traditional foam earplugs used to irritate my ears like crazy, not to mention all the garbage they generate.

If you prefer to shop somewhere besides Amazon or your local health food store, try Thrive Market. They offer most of these products for less than you can find at Amazon or Whole Foods. When you use this link you’ll get 40% off your first order! They are membership based, but the amount you save shopping there makes it totally worth it. I plan ahead and make sure to keep staples stocked through them. Shipping is fast and free too.

If you’re having a tough time dealing with dermatographia, or anything else really, therapy might help. I’ve found that since Covid, life feels extra stressful. I started using Better Help, an online counseling service that is absolutely amazing. I feel so much better when I can talk to a professional about my stress and all the crazy aspects of life! They have webinars, weekly online therapy sessions, worksheets to help you process emotions/events, and a bunch of other helpful resources. If you feel like you could use some extra support, use this link to try Better Help free for a week and see if it’s a good fit.

I know you probably don’t expect to see a toilet paper recommendation on here, but I’m just so excited about this company, I have to share! I love Cloud Paper toilet paper. They use fast-growing bamboo instead of trees, they’re very affordable and sustainable, and are committed to reducing waste and protecting the environment! They’re a great company based in Seattle and I highly recommend them.

I hope this helps! Please let me know what works for you.

Note, I encourage you to buy local whenever possible but if you use these links to purchase the products I recommend, I may earn a small commission. It doesn’t cost anything extra for you, and by using my links you’ll help keep the Skintome community alive :=)

Thank you for your support!

Dermatographia Posts

Six Steps To Stop The Itch of Dermatographia NOW

You’re in the right place if you want to stop itching like a maniac! And you’re ready to make big changes in the name of health and well-being and self-care! Although there isn’t a cure for dermatographia (aka skin writing, dermographism, dermatographic urticaria), there are some things you can do to heal your skin and

Dermatographia After the Moderna Booster: Now What?

Did you develop dermatographia shortly after getting your Moderna booster vaccine for Covid 19? If so, you’re not alone. I’ve heard from tons of you that this is a new (and not welcome) side effect of the shot. If you now have dermatographia, welcome to the club, and I hope it’s not too bad. Hopefully

Dermatographia and the COVID-19 Vaccine: Tips to Make it Easier, and YES It Is Safe

I’ve heard people say their dermatographia has lessened since getting the COVID-19 vaccine. I’ve also had people wonder if it’s safe for those of us with dermatographia to get the shots (it totally is). Speaking from personal experience, I have not noticed a decrease in my itchiness since getting the second Moderna shot a

The Top 5 Things You Can Do To Heal Your Itchy Skin

It’s a new year already! And a new decade! I try not to get too wrapped up in New Year’s resolutions, but the start of a new one always makes me think about what kinds of little changes I can make to feel better. Because to me that’s what life is about: feeling good–and helping

How I Almost Cured My Dermatographia, The All Natural Way

Many of you already know my skin writing story, but here’s some background for those of you that aren’t familiar with me yet. I was officially diagnosed with dermatographia back in 2004 (wow it’s been awhile!), but I had it for close to 10 years before then. Like many other people with dermatographia, I didn’t

Hashimoto’s Hypothyroidism and Dermatographia

Recently I was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s hypothyroidism. Basically what that means is I have an under-active thyroid. It’s an autoimmune disorder, similar to dermatographia in that the immune system is involved. With Hashimoto’s the immune system starts attacking the thyroid gland because of inflammation and a number of other factors. [Some say it’s actually caused

121 Comments

maria perkins
on June 16, 2016 at 6:01 pm

I was diagnosed with dermatographia at the age of 9. Now, I’m 46 years old and still experience severe itching, welts, and have been searching for an answer for years. I have been to an allergists, Intergrative Health Specialists and an immunologists. My primary doctors act like I am crazy, so I avoid discussing it with him. This inflammation and histamine release is causing me to experience muscle weakness, joint pain, and I have osteophytes growing on my cervical spine. (C2-C7)) I have told my husband over the past few years, If what you are seeing on the outside is this bad, imagine how it’s affecting my organs and joints. I have been thru elimination diets, avoiding trigger foods, and it always seems to out smart everyone. So the itch lives on!!

Ariana
on July 7, 2016 at 11:18 am

Hi Maria,
So sorry to hear about your condition(s)! I know it’s tough, trying new things all the time and being super vigilant about what you do and eat, but I’m convinced it’s worth it. All the changes I’ve made in my diet and lifestyle have helped TREMENDOUSLY! Please don’t give up. Try the Autoimmune Protocol diet, try meditation, try whatever you possibly can and eventually you will find relief.
Please let us know what you discover!

help me
on May 30, 2018 at 4:54 am

hello i had dermatographia at the age of 11 but it stopped for a couple of month but came back and i still have it i am 14 now and i really want it to go it looks hideous when people see it they are like omg whats that. i cant even see the doctors about it because im scared. every time i go to the doctors i faint im scared of them and injections please someone find a cure!!!

Ariana
on November 4, 2018 at 3:18 pm

Hi! Sadly, there is no cure for dermatographia, but if you do the things I suggest in other posts on this site, it will help :+)
Good luck! I hope you find some relief.
As for other people, tell them you have skin writing and can draw stuff on your skin. Can they do that??

Lilian
on November 2, 2017 at 5:42 am

Hi Maria, sorry about your condition, I have this condition for 3 years, I have a question for you, do you have kids?do you know if this condition pass to our babies during the pregnancy? Let me know if you or somebody else konw. Thanks

Ariana
on November 4, 2018 at 3:16 pm

Hi Lilian! I have dermatographia and had a baby 1 year ago. So yes, you can get pregnant with dermatographia! If you’re having fertility issues, it’s likely something else causing it.
There’s a chance your baby will also have dermatographia, but there’s a chance s/he won’t too. My son doesn’t have it.
I hope that helps!

Shama
on September 18, 2019 at 8:06 am

Can we breast feed our baby with dermatographia

Ariana
on October 6, 2019 at 3:34 pm

Yes absolutely! I’m currently breastfeeding my son and have been his whole life (he just turned 2).

Seun
on October 5, 2019 at 6:58 pm

Am struggling with this condition now. My mum use to have it but we don’t know what it was then. She has 4 grown up children and I guess am the only one that has it now. I use to have it long time when I was in my 20’s then I was not living in the US. I went to a road side nurse and she gave me some type of injection for 3 days and it went away. Now am in my late 30’s living in the US and my doctor can’t cure this, he gave me some medication which if I stop using it will come back and itching worse. Those medication make me sleep, I can’t keep sleeping while driving to work or sleeping at work. Am so fed up. I need help

Ariana
on October 6, 2019 at 3:38 pm

Hi Seun! I’m sorry to hear that you’re struggling. Did you see my post How I *Almost* Cured My Dermatographia, The All Natural Way? Maybe something in there will help you like it helped me. It takes a lot of discipline to make these huge lifestyle changes but then you hopefully wouldn’t need to take any medication anymore and you’d feel way better!

Paula
on September 6, 2019 at 5:30 pm

Hi 🙂 My name is Paulina and I am 30 years old. For 2 months I have been struggling with the ailments you describe and show in the pictures. Everything itches and after scratching there are raised marks that itch even more. Face, back, belly, legs, back, buttocks and even head. One relief was when I got a fever. And, like everyone else, I wonder where it came from … It started with the fact that I had laryngitis and got cough pills. After 2 tablets I could not stop scratching and it remained So. Pleas help 🙂

Ariana
on October 6, 2019 at 3:41 pm

Hi Paulina! I’m sorry to hear your itching is so bad. Did you see my post How I *Almost* Cured My Dermatographia, The All Natural Way? Maybe something in there will help you like it helped me. Let us know how it goes!

Wendy Kuta
on June 28, 2016 at 7:37 am

I have had dermatographia for 10 years. I am now 51. Finding this blog has really helped (thank you!). I agree with the others that the medical community has little to offer. I have even seen doctors that had never heard of it! I have been mostly controlled by using Zyrtec. Last week I had dental work done. I was very nervous about it. The next day I itched from head to toe. I started taking Benadryl at night to help me get through the night, but still can’t sleep well. I am very interested in trying holistic methods to help control it. I have never experienced an exacerbation of the disease as I am now. Has anyone tried anti itch lotions? Can pollens be a trigger? I was cutting back my oleander and hibiscus the morning it was triggered???

Ariana
on July 7, 2016 at 12:01 pm

Thanks Wendy! Have you seen my posts http://skintome.arianapagerussell.com/what-to-do-with-the-itch/ and http://skintome.arianapagerussell.com/how-doing-an-elimination-diet-can-help-heal-your-dermatographia/ ? I believe all things can be healed with diet and lifestyle changes, so yes, holistic methods work. You just have to do some tests on yourself and see what your triggers are. Maybe try an elimination diet… Good luck and please let us know how it goes!

irvenna
on August 20, 2017 at 8:31 am

Hello i am a 46 year old female. i have severe allergies and have been taking allergy shots but not consist with them these past few months. I have been freaking out because i have never heard of this and to have your body doing things like this is scary.. I actually thought this means i am dying because the internet has been scaring me to death. This diagnose is as recent as this pass Tuesday.
I am at a lose…very depressed and sad i have been very stressed out lately which i am reading doesnt help at all. I would like to know what and how to start a elimination diet and also is this condition hereditary as i have 3 younger cousins 1 is allergic to bug bites and the other 2 just break out in hives for no reason. Please help.. I’m so scared.

Ariana
on November 4, 2018 at 3:23 pm

Hi Irvenna,
I’m sorry to hear you’re depressed! I hope you’ve found some relief since posting this comment.
Dermatographia will not kill you, so please don’t worry about that. It isn’t necessarily hereditary, but it can be.
There’s so many unanswered questions around dermatographia! I’m currently writing a book about it to help people like you and me get answers :+)

Eva
on January 8, 2017 at 11:30 am

Hello! I am 43 and just got diagnosed with this skin issue as well. These articles are so interesting. I too am allergic to all antibiotics and I have never had these problems until I started taking probiotics! I told my husband that I swear I imbalanced the bacteria in my body and that’s what’s causing it. I am beginning an elimination diet tomorrow for 30 days to see if that helps. It seems like dairy exacerbates my itchiness. My urinalysis test also showed high levels of bacteria but I know I do not have a UTI. I noticed many people on here said they had bladder infections. It seems like there is a link between this and bacteria in the body. If this is true, then Now I just need to figure out how to balance my bacteria out.

Ariana
on January 9, 2017 at 4:33 pm

Thanks for sharing Eva! Please let us know how it goes with the elimination diet. Do keep in mind that you may not see a huge decrease in itch right away, so be patient with the process. I’ve learned that it takes awhile to get our systems back in balance once they’re out of wack enough to produce something like dermatographia!
Also look into ways to heal your gut. I’ve heard that will help balance bacteria in your body.
Good luck!
Q
on October 5, 2017 at 11:24 am

Contrary to what you have suggested I have been taking pro-biotics( vybact) and I think it has helped reduce the outbreak. Initially, a slight scratch would cause a large area of the skin to hive and welt. These welts were usually pretty soft. After taking the pro-biotics my welts have reduced while they have become harder. I read an article suggesting the use of antibiotics but I’m too scared to mess the bacteria environment in my stomach in case the dermatographia increases.
I hope this nonsense goes away soon I am 19 and I think I got it either from taking a painkiller /from taking Alaspan or my friend hitting me on the head. This happened around 3 months ago but luckily I have adjusted to this and now wear short sleeve shirts! c:

I was also wondering if doing an endoscopy could help find a solution. Please let me know if you have any knowledge on the same

Ariana
on November 4, 2018 at 3:26 pm

Yes I agree, probiotics do help.
I think it’s wise to not take antibiotics. There’s no guarantee it will work and then you’re just taking them unnecessarily.
There’s not much we know about what causes dermatographia, unfortunately.
I’ve never heard of anyone finding relief with endoscopy, but will let you know if I do.

Marina
on May 21, 2017 at 7:12 pm

Hi Wendy. I’ve had dermatographia accompanied by severe itching and inflammation for three years now. The ONLY thing that works for me is zyrtec every 48 hours. I talked with my doctor and an allergist about this, because I am very concerned about long-term use of zyrtec. They were like “don’t worry about. It’s not a big deal.” No one seems to take me seriously. I am beyond grateful for the zyrtec, but want a more sustainable solution!

Edmund Trujillo
on May 26, 2017 at 6:53 am

Hello Marina,

Like you the only thing that has worked is Allegra 24 hours but I also don’t want to take a drug for the long term. My dermatologist said it’s no problem.

I have, however, found some relief naturally with a pill that consists of turmeric, curcumin and black pepper extract. The bottle suggests a single capsule but I take four of them.

Nicole
on July 25, 2016 at 2:37 am

Hi. My name is Nicole and I just found out tonight that my 3 year old daughter’s recent wealt outbreaks is actually Dermatographia. I think it is neat that her skin is like a canvas, but it also has me a little worried because I don’t know why this just came out of nowhere and I don’t really know what to expect or to do other than use antihistamines or diet like what has been stated on this website. Please feel welcome to reply.

Ariana
on August 2, 2016 at 5:33 pm

Hi Nicole! It’s really hard to tell you what to expect or what to do since everyone is so different. Your daughter might outgrow her dermatographia, she might not. But she’s very lucky to have a mom with a positive outlook on the condition! Just pay attention to what triggers her itch the most… like certain foods, household cleaners or detergents. Hopefully as she gets older you can help her heal with diet and lifestyle adjustments, like I did! Let us know how it goes!

Emily
on July 25, 2016 at 9:14 pm

I’m so happy I found this! Every few years I google dermatographia to see if the medical community has made any advances. It’s nice to know there are others with this-even in other countries- and I’m not just a freak with a skin condition. I’m 30 and mine started when I was 18. At first, I thought it was so embarrassing but after years of explaining and lack of explaining, I just tell people “It will go away in like 5
minutes.” A dermatologist was at a loss and prescribed me some antihistamine that knocked me out for three days straight. Although the welts subsided for a while and I was just left with red marks. A few times a month I’ll have someone point out one on my body but there’s nothing I can do; I will have this forever. Every now and then I have scratching fits but my biggest hobbies like running, etc are huge stimulators so it is what it is. Benadryl and Zyrtec knock me out cold or keep me up all night depending on whatever’s most inconvenient. We are so lucky!

Ariana
on August 2, 2016 at 5:30 pm

Yes we are ;=) Thanks Emily!

Iesha Speaks
on August 8, 2016 at 6:54 pm

I found out earlier this year that I have dermatographia. I now know that I have always had it but did not know what was causing me welt up just from a bit of pressure or something rubbing on my skin. It was kind of the family joke (in good fun). I’d just randomly be welted up and we’d all laugh about it. It itched (sometimes a lot) but nothing too awful (with the exception of a few extreme breakouts). However, after a course of amoxicillin in January, my skin went bonkers and my dermatographia went to a whole new level (and has been there ever since). The welts were huge. And it was not just welts now but lumps. They were covering my body and on top of that my eyes and lips were swelling from just me moving around on a pillow at night or rubbing my eyes. The breakouts were nearly non stop for many weeks. The itching was unbearable. I was taking Valium just to sleep at night. After my doctor tried just about everything he finally sent me to an allergist who figured it out. I feel like he saved my life because I really could not have taken much more of that. I have been on steroids and antihistamines ever since. Now, I don’t need the stronger meds and can get by on the stuff that doesn’t knock you out. My goal is to get to where you are and control this with diet and better living. I don’t think perpetual steroid use is healthy. I really appreciate your positivity about dermatographia and this blog as well. You have changed how I see it. I am an artist as well so I love how you use it to express your creativity. I’m not there yet but someday perhaps 😉 I really want to thank you for being so awesome!

Ariana
on August 18, 2016 at 8:40 pm

Thank you Iesha! You’re so sweet :=) I’m glad to hear that you don’t need the stronger meds now, and that you want to do some experiments on yourself to see how you can ease the itch. Please keep us updated on how things go with your dermatographia once you start adjusting your diet and stuff! Just don’t lose patience… it can take awhile to find your triggers. Good luck!

Elena Nygard
on October 24, 2016 at 8:38 pm

I’m only eleven years and I figured out I had this a couple weeks ago and I’m going to go see a dermatologist about it next week but it really been getting worse but I have a already figured out what helps which may help others too . I To help reduce the effect for at least 18 hours I use Neosporin once a week before bed and Vaseline. This has worked like a miracle I can walk thru a dense forest with branch’s and lots of sticks every where 8th my reactivation n reduced my st least half and little itching but I also expertise and eat very healthy.

Ariana
on November 3, 2016 at 10:21 am

Hi Elena! How did it go with the dermatologist? Coconut oil also works really well to ease the itch 🙂

Zerlina Dwi
on December 8, 2016 at 11:06 pm

I had this Dermatographia last year, and at that time i didnt know that it was called Dermatographia…
I was kinda freaked out and tried to hide it, but i cant hadle it anymore so i told my mom about it
she didnt know what is wrong with my skin so we planned to go to a dermatologist, but I didnt have time, because i had to focus on my exams.
But one day my friend send me a post about Dermatographia…and now i feel special because only 5% have this…i usually tease my friends with my skin
but sometimes im disgusted by how the scratch look like

Ariana
on December 15, 2016 at 4:22 pm

Awesome Zerlina! You are special :+)
I hope you find some helpful tips to relieve the itch here on Skintome. Don’t forget to read the comments because people have offered great suggestions! Let us know how it goes.

Charlotte Maillard
on December 13, 2016 at 5:23 am

Hi,

You cannot believe how relieved I am right now! I am french and ended up to read an article about Dermographism for work with a link to your blog. I have this condition for a while now (I’m 30) and didn’t manage to put a name on it neither my dermatologist. I take antihistamines every 3 or 4 days otherwise, it gets really itchy. I am often ashamed about those marks, especially during the summer when the skin is all exposed and when people make you notice in a “what’s wrong with you?” style. My family and closest friends are used to it and sometimes “play” with it by drawing funny things. So far I thought I was the only one in the world with this issue, I never met someone with this condition (or I didn’t notice). Winter gets itchier than summer so I assume the change of temperature is a trigger. I will follow your advice, change my diet and why not get a tattoo as I was sure that it was something impossible to get with a very reactive skin. So thank you! I’m so glad we are a community and that we can help and support each other

Ariana
on December 15, 2016 at 4:24 pm

Yay you’re welcome Charlotte! Welcome to Skintome :+)
Oh and I hate it when people ask me, ‘What happened to you?!’ if I have a little mark on me lol

Elizabeth
on December 22, 2016 at 5:29 am

SHOES ahhhhhh I normally wear flip flops because the less rubbing the better but as an adult apparently I have to grow up and wear normal people shoes but my sneakers are causing me to be very reactive what have you guys been wearing ????
Sander
on December 27, 2016 at 7:57 am

Hello,

My name is Sander and I’m 17. I recently found out about my dermatographia ( I had no idea I had it and it didn’t bother me)( I literally found out by watching another person and trying it myself) and I might be weird guz I don’t feel that me having it is a bad thing guz well I like the fact that I can write on my skin. I really liked the tips on how do prevent the itchiness but I don’t think I want to cure its maybe because I’m so young but I think that deramtographia is a part of us it maybe a contusion but it’s not a bad thing people generally like seeing what dermatographia can to and if others think its gross or weird than fine but do me what’s important is what you think of it and I think that it’s just another thing that makes me well me.

Ariana
on January 9, 2017 at 4:20 pm

Hi Sander! I’m so glad to hear your positive attitude about having dermatographia. Sounds like it’s not too bothersome for you so yeah, have fun with it :+)

Brad Linden
on January 2, 2017 at 12:57 pm

Hello
I stumbled on your website and congratulate you on your sharing of information about this affliction.
At 49 I have been suffering with the itch all over my body that has at times driven me close to insanity for the past 35 years I have scratched my legs with my toenails until they bled and have the scars to prove it.
As a teen dating was at times very awkward as I attempted to relieve the itch by either leaving the room or covertly scratching so my date wouldn’t notice or my friends.
School was often a place of ridicule and shame especially after gym class when ìt’d be sure to rear it’s ugly head.
I found the legs groin area, under the armpits,and my back to be the most common places where I would have to scratch but everywhere else was also affected and at any given time too without warning or provocation I’d be going bonkers trying to relieve the itch.
Finally I discovered little yellow pills called novo-phenoram an over the counter antihistamine that was a blessing from God for me and I carried some with me at all times .
This medication worked quite fast to relieve the itch usually with only one pill but two pills were often needed .
I am happy to say that in recent years I appear to have outgrown this affliction for the most part but always have a few tablets on hand just in case thankfully so because the itch does come unexpectedly and instantaneously with no warning what so ever.
I pray that none of my children end up with this problem but if it does happen at least I will understand and be able to help before the teasing and shame become too unbearable like almost happened to me.
Thanks for starting this Web page so those looking for answers and support have somewhere to go for both its too bad it wasn’t available to me back in my early years it might have saved me from alot of tears and loneliness.
Brad.

Ariana
on January 9, 2017 at 4:22 pm

You’re welcome Brad! I’m glad you found us. Thanks for sharing your story and welcome to Skintome!

Shoroma
on January 4, 2017 at 7:01 am

Hi,
I had gone to my GP about 3 years ago when I though the itchy breakouts happened way too often. Even my doctor googled dermatographia and showed me that there isn’t necessarily a cause for it. Which sucked, because I had tried eliminating wheat, and dairy, and sugar…to no avail. Over the years I assumed it would lesson or stop, it hasn’t. I’m 29 now, and its a daily struggle. I have to be so cautious with what clothing I wear as the material will irritate my skin. It’s bearable, but it can be quite embarrassing when I meet new people.Having to explain the condition just so they don’t think its some contagious rash. I carry antihistamines in my handbag everywhere I go. One usually does the trick to ease the itchiness, however I’m trying to avoid depending on them. Any pressure on my skin aggravates it, and the urge to scratch is unbearable at times, which just worsens the inflammation. the worst is probably when i touch my face, involuntarily..I end up red marks and slight swelling that just looks weird. Its odd how something that seems so trivial does affect us on a daily basis…and still so few answers are available for it’s cause. It’s comforting knowing you’re not alone with this condition, but I do wish it would go away.

Roma

Ariana
on January 9, 2017 at 4:28 pm

Hi Roma,
Thanks for the note. Have you tried doing a full-on elimination diet? Maybe something like eggs or corn is triggering your condition? Also, soaps and lotions make my skin itch like crazy, so I use coconut oil and sweet almond oil for washing and moisturizing. I also use all natural laundry detergent, which helps a ton. For hand soap I use Dr. Bronner’s because it’s nice and gentle.
Let us know if you find something that helps (besides the antihistamines)!
I’m going to be writing a new post soon with lots of information on how I’ve (almost) cured my dermatographia. The itch is so much better now!
Check back soon,
Ariana

Dellanira
on January 10, 2017 at 12:01 am

Hi, everyone. I think I have news for each person that suffers this condition. I found your blog a few weeks ago. I have had this problem for about 5 years but is not consistent. Sometimes I forgot I even have it. The thing is that someone that has the same condition told me that this was the cause of the parasite giardia. I got shocked when she told me because I had Giardia when I was about 10 years old,( I have 25 now). I’m not sure if I treated it the right way back then. She told me it was so difficult to cure it. The only thing that help her was Ozone injections I think. I took a stool example the other day to the lab and it gave negative but I still have dermatographia. I will treat my problem as soon as possible. Hope this helps everyone and would love to hear your opinions

Ariana
on January 31, 2017 at 5:56 pm

Thanks for the tip! I think the cause is different for everyone so it’s hard to pinpoint. Let us know if you find out anything else!

Mareika
on February 9, 2017 at 6:24 am

I believe I have always been able to write on my skin, and have always had sensitive skin, e.g. would get hives from wool no matter how soft. And sometime I’d get hives on my hands and lower arms for no reason. It really hasn’t historically been too much of a bother! I’ve never experienced what I’ve been experiencing now and I wondered if this seems like dermatographia or something else: this week my scalp started to itch something crazy and it spread all over my body… and now when I scratch, a group of small bumps (like hives) appear on my skin and become even more itchy! And then when I leave it alone they go away in about an hour. Do other people experience a random worsening of symptoms like this?

Cat
on February 24, 2017 at 8:03 am

In my experience, hives disappear in about 10-15 minutes. Your new symptoms do not sound like dermatagraphism if the hives/bumps lasted 1 hour.

Ariana
on February 25, 2017 at 1:13 pm

Actually, dermatographia hives can last for 1 hour. It’s happened to me before!

James
on November 27, 2017 at 9:11 am

I’ve known about having Dermatographia for over 50 years but it is only in last year that I started to have the same itching you describe; starting at and most intense on scalp, them spreading to other parts of my body. I never associated the itching with my Dermatographia and they actually may not be related at all. I have a feeling the itching is more diet related. My Dermatographia has been constant since my Father diagnosed me in 1966.

Cat
on February 24, 2017 at 8:00 am

Hello all,

Can any women with dermatagraphism advise whether they have had children after diagnosis?

I’ve was diagnosed 20 years ago and I’ve been trying to conceive for 4 years. I’ve had a few miscarriages and am wondering if my overactive immune system could be part of the problem.

My symptoms have calmed down somewhat in the last 10 years but I still itch and have redness on a regular basis. I don’t take any antihistimines. My IVF doctors put me on Prednisone and Lovenox as a precaution the months that we did embryo transfers (put frozen embryos into the uterus) so that my immune system was suppressed and would not attack the embryo.

Thanks

Ariana
on February 25, 2017 at 1:12 pm

Hi Cat,
Have you had a full thyroid panel done? Sometimes the thyroid can affect fertility (see my post about hypothyroidism here). Make sure you get the antibodies and T3, T4 tested! You might also want to try an autoimmune paleo type of diet and see if that helps. Things like dairy and gluten can be very inflammatory for some people and wreak havoc on your system. You could also try the Elimination Diet (see my post about that here) to see if you’re mildly allergic to something you’re eating.
Let us know what you discover!

Cat
on February 27, 2017 at 10:32 am

Hi Ariana,

Yes, I have had a full thyroid work up. I’m at increased risk for hypothroidism, but I’m testing normal for the moment. Thanks for the diet suggestions- I have been keeping a food journal and probably need to do the elimination diet.

I am curious to know if other women with dermatagraphism have been able to conceive and have healthy babies?

Ariana
on April 4, 2017 at 2:15 pm

Yes definitely! As long as you keep your thyroid levels in check, and take care of your skin, you should be able to conceive and have healthy babies. Have you tried an elimination diet yet? I’m so sorry to hear about your miscarriages. Struggling with fertility issues is so frustrating. How did your last IVF go?
You might want to check out this helpful book about fertility: How to Conceive and Have a Healthy Pregnancy After 35. They offer great tips for getting your body ready to conceive. Also, check out my new post about how I’ve healed my dermatographia.

Emma
on March 13, 2017 at 3:28 pm

I found out I had dermographism, last year and I was prescribed an antihistamine every day. It takes away some of the itch but it is horrible if I either forget or run out of the tablets, because my whole body itches horribly. It’s nice to see a webpage like this though where I can read others stories, because although I suffer from this, it’s something I know very little about
Dawn Borne
on March 20, 2017 at 1:37 am

I’m 12 and I just learned I have dermatographism. I have had this for about a year now and it has really made me self conscious. I have become scared to take of my jacket at school now because of it. People at school always ask me and toy with me about it and it really bothers me. I was wondering if you had any thoughts about how I could boost me self esteem while haven’t dermatographism. I have tried being postitive about it but I just does not work. I know this sounds stupid and you don’t know me, but I never knew others had this. I never even knew this many people have it.

Ariana
on April 4, 2017 at 2:09 pm

Hi Dawn,
I’m sorry to hear about how people at school are treating you. Kids can be mean! My suggestion to you is to turn it around on them. Instead of trying to cover it up, be proud of what your skin does and show it off. If they try and make fun of you and you respond with writing your name on your arm, or making some kind of drawing, then that takes away their power to make you feel bad. Show them it’s something you can have fun with and think is cool, and maybe they’ll be jealous. Tell them it’s unique and only cool people have it. It definitely won’t be as satisfying for them to make fun of you if they see you actually aren’t bothered by it :+)
Let us know how it goes if you decide to try this!

Henry Perretta
on April 1, 2017 at 9:08 am

My doctor has suggested I look into Singulair (aka Montelukast) — I’ve been on Hydrazine since 1998 for my dermatographism.

kris Walt
on June 19, 2017 at 6:01 pm

I take Singulair and it really helps. I am currently looking for more natural fixes because I don’t want to be on long term pharmaceuticals.

Philip
on April 5, 2017 at 7:33 pm

Ariana, have you heard of dermatographia occurring only at certain times of the day? Mine seems to flare up mainly after work. It may be that that is actually my most stressful time with two toddlers to host at dinner and put to bed, so it could be that stress, but any thoughts you could share are appreciated!

Ariana
on November 4, 2018 at 3:38 pm

Hi Philip,
Yes! I have heard from many people that it flares up at night. And stress definitely exacerbates it for most people. I have 1 toddler and am stressed enough, I can’t imagine having 2!
Here’s some suggestions:
Moisturize when you get home from work, to help prevent the itch coming on.
Do some relaxation techniques on your way home from work to help prepare you for the potentially stressful evening.
Change clothes when you get home–wear something light and loose to let skin breathe.
Try to get enough rest at night, which I know is hard when you have little ones!
Your circadian rhythms change at night so it can make skin itch more. I’m not quite sure how that all works, but it’s something to look into.
I hope that helps!

Georgia
on April 26, 2017 at 12:04 pm

Hello! I’m 15 years old and I’ve got dermatographia – not diagnosed officially but it’s clear that I have it – and I’m finding it hard to cope. Me and my friends joke about it, but it’s getting really painful and with exams coming up, it’s only getting worse. On a night, I can’t sleep for hours because my skin gets really itchy when I’m too cold or too hot, or even when I seem to be fine, then the welts appear and it looks like I have claw marks across my whole body. Stress definitely increased how often the welts appear, but I really don’t know how to deal with it at this point. I’ve got eczema and another skin problem too, so I’m very weary to start treatment as I don’t want it getting any worse. Is there anything you could suggest? I’m hopefully going to see a doctor soon, but I’m in the UK so I don’t know if the treatment options are the same here as they are in the US. Please help!!

Ariana
on May 5, 2017 at 6:08 pm

I’m sorry to hear that Georgia! Have you tried coconut oil on your skin?

I’ve written a lot about how diet and lifestyle choices can affect dermatographia. Check out my recent post about it: http://skintome.arianapagerussell.com/how-i-almost-cured-my-dermatographia-the-all-natural-way/
Other than that, you might want to try an antihistamine. I’ve never taken them before so am not familiar with what works, but I’m sure your doctor will have input for you.

Oh, and try doing a gentle meditation before going to sleep, that should help relax you.

I hope you feel better!

Ritoja
on April 28, 2017 at 7:25 am

Hello Ariana,
It’s really wonderful to see such a lot of useful information on this condition put together. Dermatographia is benign enough, but gets tricky to care for, and can get frustrating without adequate information on the subject. You’ve done a great job!

I would like to know if you have any tips for hair removal and consequent skincare in dermatographic persons.

Ariana
on May 5, 2017 at 6:05 pm

Thank you for the kind words Rotoja!
For my own hair removal, I just do some plucking here and there. Then I follow up by using a little witch hazel to prevent clogged pores and too much irritation. For shaving I use Schick sensitive skin razors and Aveeno unscented shaving cream for sensitive skin. That seems to help! I’ve heard people say that taking a Benedryl or something before waxing can help a lot too.
Good luck and let us know what works for you!

Jeremy
on May 17, 2017 at 6:00 pm

Im so glad i came across this page, ive been getting these symptoms for about a month and had no clue what was going on. Im going to see a dermatologist next week to see what they have to say. Im 30yrs old and i see that its more common for younger people?

Ariana
on November 4, 2018 at 3:43 pm

It affects all ages, but yes it typically comes on in adolescence.
What did the dermatologist say? Apologies, I know you wrote that last year!

Edmund
on May 26, 2017 at 7:56 am

Thanks for this page. I developed this condition last year. Allegra 24 hours works but I don’t like taking antihistamines for the long term.

In the meantime I’ve had some fun. When I went to my dermatologist I etched in the word “HELP” on one arm and “ME” on the other. She appreciated the humor. I was also at Macy’s several months ago and etched in “MACYS” in my arm. When checking out I told the cashier that my body told me to go to Macy’s for my purchase and showed her my arm — she freaked out. Another time at the gym, I had a choice of the SPIN class or the PILATES class. I etched in “SPIN” on my arm and told the instructor that my body was telling me to do spin that day. She also freaked out. Quite fun actually. 🙂

Ariana
on November 4, 2018 at 3:44 pm

Hahahaha that’s great! I love it! I’m so glad you’re having fun with it :+)
Any luck with other treatments besides antihistamines?

Maria Isabel
on June 1, 2017 at 4:01 am

Hai everyone, I’m Isabel 18 yrs. old from Philippine s, at the age of 14 I noticed something on my skin when I scratched it. I’m scared at the first time I saw it because my skin is different from my friends. After 4 years, I decided to have a check up because at the same time the hair falling from my scalp is not normal because I heard that our scalp is also part of our skin, so then, I found out that I have Dermatographia (skin writing) When I read this, all of your comments made me feel relieved. The doctor said that it is normal to have a falling hair if we have a fever or we are sick. So I decided to have some rest after work because I’m currently a Student Assistant, you know self supporting because I am eager to finish my studies despite of poverty to become a teacher someday . Thank you Ariana <3

Ariana
on November 4, 2018 at 3:45 pm

You’re welcome Isabel! How are you feeling now? :+)

Shilpi
on June 23, 2017 at 7:26 am

Hi Ariana, my name is Shilpi and I am also suffering with Dermographia for last 7 months. My condition is pretty bad and troublesome. I just want to thank you for making a website for dermographia as not much information is available about this disease. This is really helpful to read other people’s comments to understand my condition better. Thank you and take care!

Ariana
on November 4, 2018 at 3:45 pm

You’re welcome! Thanks for the note!

Allie
on July 19, 2017 at 3:41 pm

I’m only 11 and after reading this I’ve realized I had a skin condition. What do I do when my teacher sees i have skin writing? Everytime she sees my skin swell up she tells me to go to the office. What do I do?

Ariana
on November 4, 2018 at 3:46 pm

Hi Allie,
Did you talk to her about it? You just have to show her some photographs of dermatographia and she’ll see it’s not just you!
I hope you’re doing well.

Chan
on July 27, 2017 at 2:55 am

Hello, I’m 27 and having Dermatographia since age 14. Very agree to your articles “there is no cure but treat Dermatographia naturally” !
Been taking Anti allergic pills for sometimes due to irritating of itchy and swollen and it comes more worse once stop the medicine.
Your articles really do light me up, live & accept with Dermatographia.
I will try all the nature ways of life habits for cure my Dermatographia, appreciated a lot ! I am the one of 5% world populations !

Ariana
on November 4, 2018 at 3:47 pm

Thanks Chan! I hope you’re doing well 🙂

Jennifer
on July 30, 2017 at 6:13 pm

I have had dermatographia all my life. Recently I fell in love with using coconut oil on my skin to relieve the itching. It is a Godsend because my scratching drives my husband nuts. My son inherited my condition. I have never met anyone else who has it.

Ariana
on November 4, 2018 at 3:47 pm

I’m so glad the coconut oil works! It helps me a lot too 🙂

Raja
on August 7, 2017 at 6:00 am

Hi Ariana, Im really glad with your effort for spreading awareness about this condition. I was diagnosed with dermatographia last year. Ever since, I am on anti-histamines which, as most of you say makes me drowsy. My condition is too worse and the itch is unbearable even if i forget my medication for a single day. I have found out that alcohol makes the condition worse. I have stopped consuming alcohol altogether, but i guess the damage has been done. I couldnt find what im allergic to. Im trying to find natural ways to suppress the histamine and i also read your article on the elimination diet. But im too lazy to try that. Though this condition is a huge pain in my ass, it made me quit drinking, and im thankful for that. I believe that in problem lies an opportunity. I know that there is no cure for this yet. But, has anyone tried alternative medicines/Ayurvedic treatments etc, and has it helped? Im glad to know that you guys are all suffering like me and im not alone. haha.. Btw, im a businessman and im in constant stress and travel. I strongly believe that stress makes this worse and somebody here said that low cortesol levels are linked with dermatographia.

And I really wish to know if scientists and doctors worldwide are making an effort to find a permanent cure for this. does anyone know of any research institute or medical foundation, working on this? If not, lets just spread awareness about this condition like the ice bucket challenge for ALS or something of that sort and make this famous.

Ariana
on November 11, 2018 at 2:34 pm

Hi Raja! I agree, in every ‘problem’ there is an opportunity. I’m so glad you figured out alcohol was making your itching worse. And yes, stress will also make the itching worse. I’ve heard from lots of people that they itch when they’re stressed.

In regards to alternative treatments, diet and lifestyle changes can help a lot–whether you follow an Ayurvedic way of eating, do yoga, etc. Things that keep your system clean and functioning optimally and de-stressed help tons!

I was told that dermatologists put dermatographia low on the list of priorities since it’s not life threatening and it’s so mysterious.Yes, let’s spread awareness about dermatographia! Thank you for your help doing that.

Hope you’re well.
sam
on January 14, 2020 at 11:38 am

i am doing ayurveda medicine now im on first course only
sam
on January 14, 2020 at 11:42 am

8th day already and still not taking antihistamine but still there is a mild itchiness

Furiza
on October 27, 2017 at 1:55 am

Hi Arian, I’m furiza, and i’m suffering dermographia almost 5 years, First i thought it was a simple allergy but time goes by it was worsen, which often most severe at night and this is the reason why i can’t sleep well. I don’t have a chance to visit a doctor, this past few months, i saw it in a social media about skin writting and i found out that we are suffering from the same symptoms. the next day I searched about dermatographia and I felt sad that these was no cure.Still, i’m not losing my hope so i continued seaching that maybe someone help me with this. and Boom! I found your blog and I hope I can learn more read more tips for my dermatographia. Thank you and Ariana! :*

Ariana
on November 11, 2018 at 2:35 pm

You’re welcome furiza! I’m so glad you found us. I hope you found some tips helpful tips here 🙂

Andrea
on October 27, 2017 at 7:49 pm

Wow! I must say it is good to know that I am not the only one that is suffering with this skin allergy call Derma graph ism. I always tell people that I feel like it is a curse. There used to be a time when I can put on a sundress and not worry about anything. Now when I wear anything that’s revealing my skin I’m always worried. Every time I go out someone says to me oh my god did you get scratched what’s wrong with your arm or back or wherever , some people look at me funny like I have something that’s contagious. When I tell them that I have dermagraphISM they look at me like yeah right like I just made that word up or something. But it’s good to know that I’m not alone. It’s good to know that there is help. I realize that once you find out what is triggering your outbreak then that makes it a little better. For me I cannot scrub too hard when I’m in the shower. Otherwise when I get out of the shower it looks like I’ve been in a fight with a cat. It’s just certain things you have to do in order to cope with it. Scratching OMG is the worst. I have learned that once you scratch it spreads and it itches worse and worse and worse. I try to keep a positive attitude about it. Because I know that there are other things way worse than dermagraphism. So it’s just good to know that there are other people out there that are experiencing but I am experiencing and by reading a lot of the comments I feel like it will get better with time. I have learned a lot about myself and a lot about other things that may be triggering my outbreak. Thank you everybody. Please continue to post your journey and your experiences with this skin allergy. Thank you

Ariana
on November 11, 2018 at 2:38 pm

Wow thanks Andrea! I’m so glad to hear your positive attitude about dermatographia! I agree, once you start scratching it just makes things worse. Best thing to do is (try to) ignore it and the itch will go away quicker.

I hope your dermatographia is getting better 🙂

Eve
on December 27, 2017 at 12:43 pm

Hi;) I am a 28 years old woman from Poland. Today my doctor said “you suffer from dermatographia”. I don’t really know why I am writing this post.I think I need some release. I have found my new world here. I haven’t know about such an illness so far. Now I am a part of it. Greetings from Poland;)

Ariana
on January 22, 2018 at 1:06 pm

Thanks for the note Eve! Welcome to Skintome and hello from California :+)

Naene
on January 19, 2018 at 3:30 pm

Hello! Thank you for this site! I (I am 28 yr old woman from California) have been suffering for about a year now from what I thought was very dry itchy sensitive skin. My husband came across your site and it has been such a relief to know what it is I have! Seeing pictures of skin writing for the first time was fascinating, and when I was able to replicate it, I thought it was a beautiful silver lining. It was liberating to think something positive about something that has been nothing but bad. Seeing all the comments and feedback from the community has been uplifting and I hope to benefit from some of the suggestions. I will be sure to post back what works for me! Especially the dreaded full body itch that has kept me up countless nights.
Thank you Ariana and Everyone for posting!

Something to note is that before I had the full blown dermagraphia that I have now, I suffered from pretty bad seasonal allergies and what i call workout hives. Jogging has always been the worst, by legs would itch incessantly and I would sometimes get red spots. I am curious if others that developed this as a teen/adult had these issues.

Ariana
on January 22, 2018 at 12:53 pm

Thank you so much for your nice note! And welcome to Skintome, where skin writing is beautiful :+)

I’m not surprised you had bad allergies and previous hives. It’s all traced back to histamine and what it does to our systems. Good ole histamine lol.

William
on January 28, 2018 at 9:03 am

Hello Ariana, I’m a Chinese guy currently pursuing a PhD degree in the U.S.. I came across this website recently and very much appreciate it as a platform for more people to share their experiences about dermographism.

I developed this disorder last year (2017) and it was a gradual process: I first felt a little itchy sometimes at night in the summer of 2017, and I thought it might be the bed bug or something. However, the situation worsened very fast during November 2017 when I started to have all the symptoms of dermographism: itchy and red skin, especially at night after shower before bed. I especially remember one night after washing my feet in a basin. As I wiped my feet dry I felt itchy and saw redness all over my lower leg. It was itching so badly that I even began to feel hurting more than itching. I then went to the school health service and the doctor quickly identified my case as dermographism by looking at the redness on my stomach (it was itching at that time), and prescribed me Cetirizine (an antihistamine) on a daily basis. I kept taking this medication till now and it indeed has relieved the symptoms very much. Now the itchiness and redness still occur occasionally every day but only very lightly that it bothers nothing at all.

I also have a question: Is there any chance that dermographism can be permanently healed or disappear? Any such cases you have heard of? Or it is a life-long illness?

Thanks so much Ariana and everyone who has read my post.

Ariana
on November 11, 2018 at 2:41 pm

Hi William!
I have heard of dermatographia spontaneously disappearing. Seems to be uncommon that this happens, but you never know. I’ve found that when I made some dietary and lifestyle changes, my itching reduced considerably. Now I barely have it at all. Did you see the article I wrote about it? http://skintome.arianapagerussell.com/how-i-almost-cured-my-dermatographia-the-all-natural-way/
Thanks for writing!

Paige Deibel
on January 30, 2018 at 4:16 pm

Hi Ive had dermatographia since I was about 13. I figured it was because of hormonal changes during puberty. I am now 22 and I still don’t know anyone in my family with the disease, including my twin sister. I switched laundry detergent but nothing with my diet yet. The worst is just being at the beach and wanting to look cute but look down and see a swollen stomach of welts all from the dang ocean waves. Has anyone heard anything about tanning benefits? I know tanning is hard but i’ve been a few times and I feel like it helps. However, it might just make me tanner and make the welts look less red. Any ideas for summer weather please let me know! Also has anyone had allergy test done, maybe certain specific things make it worse?

Ariana
on November 11, 2018 at 2:46 pm

Hi! That’s so interesting you have it and your twin sister doesn’t! I’ve never heard that before.
My skin gets really red from swimming in the ocean as well. I’ve just learned to ignore it and most of the people I swim with already know about it anyway. If I get some weird stares from strangers, I don’t care lol.
I think sun exposure might actually make your skin worse. I would suggest avoiding tanning since skin cancer is more of a threat than dermatographia. Did you find something to help you this summer?
As for certain things making it worse, it’s so different for everyone it’s hard to say. Try removing things from your environment and/or diet and see if anything helps. 🙂

Lisa
on January 31, 2018 at 6:49 am

I have been living with Dermatagraphia for 12 years. The dermatologist and allergist that I have seen both told me, “It’s no big deal. You just need to take an antihistamine everyday, for the rest of your life.” The allergist also said, it is just a “normal” symptom of someone with sensitive skin. This didn’t strike me as normal. So, I have been seeing an integrative (natural) practitioner for a few years now. She has helped me get some of my flair ups under better control by eliminating my food sensitivities. The allergist never found any food sensitivities because he was only looking for Ig E allergies. However, my natural doc found that I have a significant # of Ig G food sensitivities, and an overall high Ig E, though I have very little Ig E allergies, so I don’t know how that works.
Today, I found an interesting site that links high histamine with estrogen (as well as high histamine foods).
Hope this helps someone!!

Ariana
on November 11, 2018 at 2:47 pm

Thanks Lisa! That’s really interesting–I’m going to research histamine and estrogen.

Brigit
on March 5, 2018 at 10:49 pm

I am 18 and I have had this for about 6 years. When I first found out that I had it I searched it but did not find anything. I am so glad this blog is out here for people who are just finding out they have it. I really like the post about tattoos. I was so nervous to get my tattoo and i really wish I had read that before I got it. It would have helped so much.

Ariana
on November 11, 2018 at 2:48 pm

Hi Brigit! I’m glad you found us 🙂

Tracie
on March 20, 2018 at 9:23 pm

My daughter is 8 and has had hives on and off since she was an infant. They usually appear when she is about to be sick (colds, stomach bugs, anything), after she has just been sick, and when she is really emotional and upset about something. Some of them itch but not all. Lately she’s been scratching and the scratches have turned into long welts, similar to what I’ve seen others show on this site. I don’t know how to help her and it’s frustrating that doctors are clueless as to cause and treatment.

I think it is immunological. My doctor believes that I have polymyositis (an autoimmune-related muscle disease) and her dad has lupus (uncommon in men, yes, but not unheard of). My dad has rheumatoid arthritis and my mom was recently diagnosed with Hashimoto’s Autoimmune. Her paternal grandfather seems to be mostly okay, but her paternal grandmother passed away about 8 years ago. She always ignored potential health problems and rarerly went to the doctor. We don’t know if she might have had an autoimmune disease for sure but my husband suspects that she did.

Anyhow, maybe sharing what my daughter is going through could help to figure out more about this condition.

Ariana
on November 11, 2018 at 2:54 pm

Thank you for sharing Tracie! I’m so sorry to hear about your daughter. I hope she’s feeling better. I do believe dermatographia is linked to autoimmune conditions–that’s something I’m currently researching. Your story definitely helps!

Kristen
on March 24, 2018 at 6:39 am

I was just diagnosed with this yesterday (no raised areas, skin just gets red when scratched/touched, itchiness too). My dermatologist instructed me to take children’s xzyzal. I took 5 ml at bed time and woke up and still am itchy on my legs and had a few lines where my baby ran her nails over my arm lightly.

I eat pretty clean already and don’t use conventional beauty products, so I will definitely try tweaking things there, but not sure what it could be. I just moved into a new home with lots of trees, so my trigger may be environmental as things are starting to bud around here! Yesterday seemed a little better, but I put coconut oil on my legs thinking that would be great and hydrating and I got insaneeeeely itchy.

I have two questions:
How long did it take for antihistamines to make a difference? Did they go away after the first dose, or did you need several doses?
What lotions have you found work the best? I tried Borage and it seemed pretty good, but wasn’t sure if there was something others recommended.

Thanks!

Ariana
on November 11, 2018 at 2:57 pm

Hi Kristen! I hope your condition is improving since you wrote this comment.
As for antihistamines, I’m not sure because I don’t take them. Coconut oil, sweet almond oil, shea butter and hemp salve have all helped me. I find lotions irritating–even many of them that say they’re ‘all natural.’
Soap also makes my skin irritated, so I use oil to clean my skin in the shower. Might be worth a try!

kaleigh
on May 14, 2018 at 10:34 am

I just started experiencing the symptoms of dermatographia about 3 months ago at first i thought it was irritation from a new laundry detergent i had gotten and i stopped using it and was still having the problem. i went to the doctor a couple weeks after my symptoms started and he said he thought it was from stress, he prescribed me a couple things but i stopped taking them because they weren’t helping. My skin still welts up and swells for about 30 mins if i barely scratch it but its not getting as irritated as it was when it first started. I read where you posted about thyroid having something to do with dermatographia as well so i think i’m gonna go get that checked out as thyroid problems run in my family. i’m so glad i found this site and can see i’m not the only one with this problem. Thank you!

Ariana
on November 11, 2018 at 2:57 pm

You’re welcome Kaleigh! Thanks for writing 🙂

Kelsey
on July 12, 2018 at 2:55 am

Thank you for all of this helpful information. My 2 year old has been suffering from this for quite a while now and it’s been getting worse and worse. He’s up in the middle of the night scratching like crazy every night, which means we the parents are too. It’s 3am as I write this and he’s been up for two hours already, itching, poor guy. I didn’t know what it was, at first I thought he just had super sensitive baby skin. He had eczema when he was younger, but that went away when we eliminated dairy. I am gluten-free, but my son isn’t. We’ve also been eating a lot of shellfish lately…. We will start an elimination diet tomorrow for him. It’s so hard to watch your child suffer but at least I know what it is now and can take some actionable steps. Thank you again.

Ariana
on November 11, 2018 at 3:00 pm

I’m so sorry to hear about your son! My son just turned 1 and I couldn’t imagine watching him suffer like that 🙁
Poor guy, I hope he’s doing better. Did cutting out gluten help? Did you try eliminating eggs? I’ve heard that can help skin problems.

Chloe
on December 27, 2018 at 2:42 pm

Hi, I think I have dermatographia. A few years ago my skin started to itch all the time, and whenever I scratched it, it would swell up in the shape of the scratches. If im not itching head to toe, my skin will still get red lines on it if I run my fingernails across it, which is awkward when people ask “OMG are u okay?!” I was doing research this morning, and stumbled across Dermatographia, which fitted my situation perfectly. So now I’ve got a name for my problem besides “oh I just have sensitive skin.” I take a regular allergy medication each day, which keeps the itching under control, but ill definitely be checking this blog out to see if I can find other methods to keep the itching under control, because it gets quite annoying. Anyways, figured I’d comment. Glad I found a name for whatever-is-making-my-skin-itch.
Tomáš
on February 25, 2019 at 2:17 am

Hi from Czech republic.
I am 25 years old. I have dermatographia since my childhood and I have never had any serious problems connected to it. When I found out I asked few doctors but none of them heard about dermatographia at all. So I have searched the internet and finally find what it is. I am professional soldier and I do a lot of sport activities. Except of martial arts (mainly during MMA fights when I have got some punches to the face I have looked like Rocky after whole match) I have never observed any problems not even during swimming in chlorinated water or saltwater. I have never used any medicaments for it so I do not know if any of them work. Only problem that I think it might be connected to dermatographia (except itchy, heat, red and scarred like skin) is that when I am in really cold weather my fingers are freezing to death. Especially during field training when you are for few days outside it is almost unbearable. So I was asking other soldiers if their fingers freeze also so much but none of them had any issues. This might not be connected to dermatographia but If some of you have any similar experience it could explain it.
And what is it like to live with dermatographia? I just take it as normal thing. My classmates usually wanted to write on my skin various motives (it is funny until someone is drawning female genitals on your back during swimming class 😀 but it was funny too 😀 I never forget my teacher’s face. They did not know what to think about it). Also during summer I used to draw on my face scars and then waited how other people will react. Or I made scars from my chest to belly and told them that I was attacked by bear and they believed it. It was so funny 😀 .
I found out this website when I was searching if is safe for me to get tattoo. So I am glad that I have nothing to worry about. Thanks a lot.
Natalia
on August 25, 2019 at 2:55 am

Hello all,

I’ve been reading some of the posts and comments on this blog and it’s amazing to find this community. (Thanks, Ariana!)
I’ve had severe dermatographia for a year now. I had it in the past for 2 months and it went away on its own. But this time, it’s come to stay, it seems. I just wanted to say that I’ve been on a medication that has absolutely SAVED MY LIFE QUALITY. It’s called Fexofenadine and it was prescribed by my GP. The symptoms almost don’t appear when you take it. It’s a very safe medication for long term use and it simply changed my life. I used to suffer and cry a lot because of my symptoms and now I can have a normal day and sometimes I even forget I have this condition.
I also believe that being on a healthy diet is key for the body to control the symptoms better. Sugar, for example, is a powerful trigger for me, and I try to avoid it.
This condition is different for everybody, but finding the right medication and/or a balanced diet can help us live a normal life.
Lots of love to everyone!

Ariana
on October 6, 2019 at 3:50 pm

Thanks Natalia! I know we’ve already emailed about this but I’m just now getting to your comment. As I said before, what works for one person may not work for another but I’m so happy you found what works for you! I always encourage people to try to heal dermatographia without medication but I realize that isn’t always an option. So maybe someone will read what you wrote and can ask their doctor about using fexofenadine like you did :+)
Yay for cutting out sugar! That’s what I need to still do lol.
Hope all is well!

Kajal
on April 20, 2020 at 8:38 pm

Hi! I’m a 13 year old girl who was bored during quarantine and decided to search up what kind of skin irritation I had (it wasn’t related to dermatographia) and I came across the condition. I realized… wait… I could do that… and I’d been able to for as long as I could remember. I thought it was natural, and so did my mom. I then told my mom I thought I had the condition and she had never heard of it. When she looked it up she was as amazed as I was that I quite possibly have a skin condition. (Well, I only say possibly because I want to get it diagnosed but I can write words, draw and take notes on my skin, I even use it to set timers. 5 minutes? Scratch and wait for the welt to appear. 30 minutes? Scratch, wait for the welt to appear and then wait for it to disappear). My mom doesn’t have it and as far as I know none of my other family members do either. When I was little, I would scratch my back or sides and such and my mom would freak out and ask what the welts on my skin were. I would be extremely confused and tell her I just scratched myself. All these years my mom just thought I scratch too hard, especially considering I do not mark or bruise easily (aside from dermatographia). I used to get annoyed with the little marks and welts on my hands when doing simple things (getting cereal in the morning, accidentally scratching myself with a pencil, just looking down and seeing them on my hands and arms), but now I find them unique. Whenever people at school see them, they think they are scars or something and get confused when they go away 30 minutes later. I used to show them what I could do and when I asked don’t they do the same they would look at me like I was crazy and shake their heads. I just thought some people could do it, some couldn’t. Or maybe it was just me? I don’t know, I guess it never played a big role in my life, but now I’m super excited I found this! I’m going to try and do henna art and other artwork now! Also, I don’t know if you’re trying to find a cause or anything but a little about me that might help: A cause for dermatographia is penicillin. I’m actually allergic to penicillin, and when I was a baby, had an allergic reaction to it. Oh! Also, if I scratch hard enough I can make it stay for about an hour. Sorry I’m rambling, just excited!
M
on September 7, 2020 at 6:22 pm

I have suffered from chronic hives for the past year, and in the last 3 months it has morphed into Dermatographia. Prior to my hives flare up, I went through a bit of a stressful year (surgery followed by glandular fever) and was also put on antibiotics for an infection (I was “floxed”) which I think had a bit to do with it.

I recently saw an allergist who did some tests and everything came up negative (blood tests, thyroid tests etc). The only thing she found was that I was low in Vitamin D so she put me on a supplement. Other than that she told me they don’t know what causes it and to just keep taking antihistamines however I personally didn’t like what antihistamines were doing to me (brain fog, fatigue etc.) and I wasn’t happy with western medicine’s lack of determination to figure out what the cause could be. How could one’s immune system think it’s under attack and start firing off false signals for no reason?

I decided to see a nutritionist who is helping me get to the root cause. So far she has put me on a whole range of vitamins and antioxidants to improve my immune system, and a supplement that includes Quercetin and Bromelain which has been so helpful in reducing my flare ups. I haven’t taken a Claritin in a week now! I usually had to take them every second day so this has been such a relief! She is also making me drink grated ginger tea after every meal as it is a natural antihistamine. I think this has also been helping quite a bit. In addition the things I have found to be helpful is wearing loose fitting clothing, exercising (but not over-doing it to the point I’m overheating), walking and square breathing (when I have a flare up so I can distract myself from itching).

I’m still on the journey of figuring out what’s causing it, but I’m happy I can get a bit of relief from it in the meantime. I hope this helps some of you, and please don’t give up. All the best! Thanks
G
on December 22, 2020 at 7:52 am

My response to M… I am not lying when I say, last year I went through a very stressful time, I also had glandular fever and in December last year I had some type of flu that made me lose my smell, taste and I was be ridden for 3 weeks… 6 weeks later in the Feb, I notices this rashes etc, which my Derma has now confirmed is chronic hives and dermatographia. I felt as though I was reading my own experience. All the autoimmune tests came back negative, so they believe it is an outcome of an over active immune system that just needs to calm its self down.

I too am taking supplements – raw ginger, tumeric, black pepper, biome, and a variety of vitamins. I’m feeling as though it’s slightly helping, but I do also hive if I overheat when exercising.

My main concern is that my skin is now super sensitive to the point where I can’t even apply natural cosmetics, because the application releases histamine, so my eyes and skin feel dry and irritated.

Has anyone else experienced skin sensitivity to products as a result?!
Allison
on January 18, 2021 at 4:52 pm

Allison

I was diagnosed with Dermatographia two weeks ago but had experienced hives for about two months prior. I can’t write words on myself, just have red lines if I scratch something. My hives seem to appear first, the scratching doesn’t produce the hives. So far, not a single antihistamine has stopped the intense itching. I’m taking 4 times the amount recommended on the packages, four different antihistamines. The antihistamines have helped me sleep, but, I itch constantly during the day. No idea what my trigger may be, but I eat fairly healthy. I have tried not to scratch, to no avail, I’m losing my mind with the itching. The coconut oil is very soothing, thank you for that! Does everyone else get hives after they scratch? The hives on my back have been there for two weeks. Hoping to find relief soon……..
Hannah
on July 15, 2021 at 7:11 pm

I was diagnosed about a month ago. I had a really bad allergic reaction to some grass when I was at practice because it was chemically treated about an hour before we trained on it. Ever since then my skin has been really sensitive and I turn red whenever pressure is put on my skin. I don’t really hive up anymore it’s more of just red patches that come and go. I’ve been to the dermatologist and have gotten medicine but I have never been one to want to stay on medication. I recently just got off of The Depo shot after four years so my hormones are very messed up right now so I feel like that could be a cause but the doctor always shakes her head and says I don’t know anything about that I don’t think that’s it. I think otherwise because this started happening the month that I got off of the shot. I don’t know if you have any information on that or not or maybe you have heard something about hormones playing a factor in this condition?? If anyone has let me know!! I’m glad I found this and I am definitely going to try some of your remedies.

Ariana
on January 9, 2022 at 1:48 pm

I get so frustrated with doctors saying things like hormones don’t affect our skin! Everything and anything can affect our skin, because everything in our bodies is connected! I do think gut health plays a large part in developing dermatographia, and hormones can affect the microbiome so it could totally be linked. Have you had any luck with any of my suggestions?

Elias Lowe
on August 20, 2021 at 12:00 pm

Hello! I’m wanting to publicize this as much as possible in case that it helps someone else. I found a treatment that works really well for me as advised by a naturopath.
It’s taking an herbal medicine blend.

Best of luck!
Crystal Hall
on March 11, 2022 at 7:23 pm

I’m suffering with this now after the doctors misdiagnosed me and pumped me with antibiotics in the hospital. Has anyone used XOLAIR and has it helped with the itching? I’m ok with the raising of the skin, but the itch is horrendous.

Ariana
on June 26, 2022 at 4:40 pm

I have heard of people getting monthly injections of XOLAIR and finding relief. It might be worth a try if nothing else works! I hope you find relief.

Charleston M.
on March 21, 2022 at 1:52 pm

I was diagnosed at age 13 with this condition after showering and my skin looking like I had a giant rash and uncontrollable itchiness. I’m nearly 18 now and I’m so happy to know I’m not alone and that there are ways to help manage it. Definitely going to use some of these tips!

Ariana
on June 26, 2022 at 4:47 pm

That’s great! Let us know what you discover :+)

Yara
on February 11, 2024 at 7:00 pm

I was diagnosed last week and was so lost in a world of something I know nothing about. I went to dermatologist who very calmly and uncaringly told me it was rare should “self resolve” and in rare cases stay for longer, ha!
In my desperation I have been studying on my own about this dermatographia. She put me antihistamine Zyrtec one in the am and one in the evening and then Benadryl . I found 2 Zyrtecs was too harsh on me made me really sleepy, depressed and the Benadryl at night makes me sleepy too. I reduced to 1 Zyrtec and Benadryl at night.
In addition, thanks to all the real life experiences of others and coming across this site, I’ve implemented no sugar, no diary no cheeses, and being more cautious with what I consume more fresh cabbage, radish, broccoli , cauliflower with olive oil and a little salt salads , fresh grilled chicken, juicing in the am with green apples and celery juice and drinking lots of water.
I’m processing how life changing this condition is and have gone through all the emotions.. I’m now looking forward praying, reminding myself that this can’t break me. + it won’t break me. and thanking god for everything I have. Thank you from the bottom for starting this page it’s helping me so much when I most felt so blindsided.

Ariana
on February 17, 2024 at 2:36 pm

Hi Yara! Thank you for sharing your journey with us. I hope it’s going well! Have you noticed the itch getting better? I love your positive attitude and self-acceptance, that has helped me tremendously! Sending you healing thoughts 🙂

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How I Almost Cured My Dermatographia, The All Natural Way