Frequently I get asked how I manage my dermatographia. My new friend Ellen in Hong Kong asked how I deal with our skin condition, so I wrote this post. [Update: Check out this post (click here) for even more tips, and here’s my updated Dermatographia page too]
About 5% of the population has dermatographia, and it affects us all quite differently. Some choose to take antihistamines because the itching is so bad. My dermatologist offered me a prescription and I refused–thankfully the itching isn’t intolerable to me because I’ve figured out other ways to take care of it, alternatives to antihistamines.
Following are my suggestions for an itch-less (not totally itch free, but every little bit helps!) life:
1. Eat fresh, organic, and whole foods as much as possible. Fruits, vegetables, rice, beans, nuts, etc., staying away from processed food and sugar. Especially sugar! That will definitely trigger itching. Basically, eating foods that are anti-inflammatory are your best bet.
2. Drink lots of water! I drink coffee in the morning (my weakness), but otherwise mostly just water the rest of the day. No soda or sugary drinks, and limit alcohol intake as that increases redness and is dehydrating. Make sure your water is filtered, just in case the tap water is contaminated. Drinking tons of clean water is one of the most helpful things you can do for your skin and overall health. That, and taking lots of deep breaths, making sure you’re breathing deeply all day.
3. Use products made for sensitive skin, preferably those with natural ingredients, and stay moisturized. Coconut oil is a great addition to your skincare regimen. It soothes irritated skin immediately, smells good, and is all natural and inexpensive. Stay away from added perfumes in skin care products as well as laundry detergent, as these can be aggravating to sensitive skin. If coconut oil is not for you, try 100% shea butter. It comes in different scents–mango is my favorite–and the softness is heavenly. Alternatively, sometimes I’ll rub a little almond oil on my skin before getting out of the shower, that way I don’t need to moisturize after showering, and the almond oil feels great on my skin.
4. Exercise and get lots of rest. My favorite things to do are yoga, jumping on a fitness trampoline, and walking–it’s important to get your heart rate up and also to stretch.
5. If itching gets really bad, use a cold compress in the area where it started, or run cold water over it. Don’t scratch! Because then it spreads all over, along with the welts. One reader suggested keeping aloe vera gel in the fridge and rubbing that on irritated skin. The coolness combined with the aloe will be extra soothing.
6. Take care of yourself by easing stress, getting lots of rest, and and having fun–and your skin health follows. Meditation, laughter, reading, writing and knitting are examples of relaxing activities that give you some quality alone time.
It takes time to notice a reduction of dermatographia symptoms. Be patient with yourself while making these changes, and give your body time to adjust. It took about a year for me to notice a huge difference in my symptoms, and it just keeps getting better. I’ll continue to post more dermatographia skin care tips. If you have suggestions, please send them my way: arianapage@gmail.com, or comment below. And if your condition worsens, see your doctor.
Update: Ellen just wrote to tell me that she’s been following my tips and her itchiness is subsiding. Great news!
306 Comments
Skin Drawings Are Cool! 5 Ways to Prove It | Skin Tome
on February 7, 2014 at 2:07 pm[…] If you would like tips for how to take care of the itchiness, and lessen your symptoms (while still being able to draw cool stuff on your skin), check out my post What to Do With the Itch: 6 Tips to Manage Dermatographia. […]
Peace
on August 22, 2015 at 10:55 pmI have this condition as well, on a lower scale, but since it is relatively harmless, it’s pretty cool. Use it! Give yourself war tattoos. Show it to your friends. Dermatographia bikini( idk just something I came up with). Stay positive! P.s. A lot of people think you are weak if you have this. Quite the opposite 😀
Ariana Page Russell
on August 26, 2015 at 7:27 pmHa that’s a great idea! Dermatographia bikini! Haven’t heard that one before :^)
You’re so right: we are most definitely not weak.
Thanks for the note!
Patty K
on April 28, 2016 at 6:11 pmI also have this condition and it has become more prominent over the years…recently (past year or so) when i sneeze my throat swells…my dermatologist said it was the most sever case she has seen…I have tried meds but they do not help and i am getting frustrated…i look like a freak show when my skin gets irritated…
Grace Mayers
on May 10, 2016 at 11:15 amThanks for your tips. It f seems like everything cause my skin to itch
Ariana
on May 13, 2016 at 6:22 pmWow Patty I’m so sorry to hear that! Have you tried some of these things I suggested? Many people find it takes a lot of trial and error to pinpoint triggers, so don’t give up! Let us know how it goes, and best of luck.
Aira Villegas
on October 27, 2016 at 11:24 pmsame here too. even if o cough too,.i get wheezy and shortness of breathing
Kate
on October 16, 2017 at 6:45 pmHello Patty,
I have had this condition for over 30 years. I found antihistamine worked well until about 5 years ago when I was taking 6-7 antihistamines a day. My specialist suggested Doxepin 25 mg and to take two at night. This and one antihistamine has worked well for me since. Hope this may help you.
Best wishes Kate
Cutema
on November 6, 2015 at 3:57 pmI have It, too. I keep writting in my skin even draw sometime and show it to my friends and family. I keep my skin moisturized to avoid itching but other than that Its super cool.
Ariana Page Russell
on November 17, 2015 at 10:54 pmYes awesome! Thanks for the note!
Gwen
on March 29, 2017 at 9:16 pmmy best friend loves to scribble her name into my arm and watch it appear. my friends play “pictionary” on me all the time lol
Nora❤️
on October 2, 2016 at 10:16 amthis
Laura
on January 26, 2017 at 11:10 amHi! My name is Laura. I was recently diagnosed with dramatic urticaria/dermatogpraphism. Drug store brands like cereve and cetaphil were recommended to me for skin care.
I would like to use something eco/animal friendly, and free and clear. Any natural brand suggestions for soap, facial moisturizer, etc? I have coconut oil at home I can use, but I’m not sure if id like it all over my body.
Thanks so much!!!
Ariana
on January 31, 2017 at 5:46 pmHi Laura!
For facial moisturizer I use 100% pure, organic argan oil. It’s the best moisturizer ever! Right before rubbing that on my face I spray some probiotics by Marie Veronique (their products are excellent and all natural). In the shower I use liquid coconut oil with a pump to wash my skin, plus Dr. Bronner’s bar soap. It’s gentle and good for the environment. Then, right before getting out of the shower I moisturize with sweet almond oil (I also keep that in a pump bottle for easy use), then rinse off real quick. That way I don’t have to use lotion after showering! For washing my hands I use Dr. Bronner’s liquid castille soap–just make sure to dilute it with some filtered water or else it’s kind of strong.
I suggest you experiment with different oils and see which one makes sense with your skin. It’s taken awhile for me to find my routine :+)
Elisha J Vancil
on February 22, 2017 at 7:53 pmI have this and I’m soooo over it. I’ve had it pretty much my whole life. As I’ve gotten older the inching sensation has gotten worse and worse. And I feel like I don’t want anything touching me because if I get scratched or even grazed by something I look like I got took a bunch of rubber bands to my skin and the sensation to itch intensifies by 100. I’m on Zyxal and it helps. I can tell within hours if I have forgotten to take my meds. I appreciate this article. Great advice!
Tamy
on April 19, 2017 at 2:38 pmHello! I have the same condition and it makes me feel a bit better that I have found this community. At the moment I feel like my world is falling apart not being able to do or wear what I would like to, because I feel ashamed of the thought I have that on my body and someone around me will sure comment or ask questions. It can get highly severe if make a higher pressure, scratch etc.
I started taking Cetirizine (Zyrtec), but only once ina week or so and It doesn’t help me that much.
Would you reccomend taking a full therapy (how many times in a week and for which period of time)? I never did take a whole therapy so I would like to hear it from you.
Thanks :))
Kameron Andrews
on January 30, 2018 at 7:34 pmI am 16 years old and I just got diagnosed with with dermatographia. I am in highschool so i am already self conscious enough, I do love being able to draw and my skin but It makes me very vulnerable and self conscious. I am just wondering if you had any really great tips for me to help with it?
Dipen
on June 10, 2018 at 5:11 amPUT SOME COCONUT OIL.
AND AFTER BATH PUT AGAIN COCONUT OIL .
AND REST . YOU ARE SLOWLY-SLOWLY FEEL COMFERTABLE 🙂
connie wan
on December 6, 2018 at 8:04 pmI have dermatographia mine isn’t the WORST case of dermatographia but its still pretty bad. I touch my cheek then people ask me what happened to my cheek and why its red. I have welts everywhere. thanks for the tips. I have learned to embrace my condition as now I can play tic tac toe during assembly’s. (I am in 6th grade (my mom let me write this))
Nora
on January 26, 2020 at 11:56 amI am very desperate. For the last 2 years I have been sponge bathing because water makes me itch . It is like thousands of ants on my body. I have seen so many dermatologist and no help.last dr put me on Xorlair injection. There is 2 weeks I took shot and tried bathing . Still not working. I need help
Andrea
on February 18, 2014 at 1:14 pmI have this condition as well and I noticed that when I cut out gluten and dairy from my diet–the itching has been minimal but most importantly when I do itch I don’t hive up! I just stays red though– i’m finding new ways to treat my condition.. let me know if I can help out more with this!
Skintome
on February 18, 2014 at 7:22 pmThanks Andrea! I’d love it if you could contribute a story and image to Skin Tome–about your experience with gluten and dairy and itching. If you’re interested email arianapage (at) gmail.com
Jeanne
on November 29, 2017 at 6:54 pmHi! I have experimented with this before! I have this overwhelming disease as well, and I tried this out for a month. It TOTALLY works. My skin/itchiness has toned down a lot and it works. Now the only thing I get, is a heat rash. Which then worsens with the dermatographia condition. Nights are THE WORST. Even when I sleep with no blanket and light clothes. Sucks. But this method works. People should try it.
someone
on April 1, 2014 at 1:38 ami have this and at first i had no idea what it was and so i ignored it, then there was a point where i itch from the top of my toes to the inside of my ear and also eyelids, palms, fingers and all the way down to my feet it was an unpleasant experience and it broke me so i went to a dermatologist and got medicine but it sometimes is bad and the prescription doesn’t help plus money is tight so i have been on off brand Allegra .
Skintome
on April 2, 2014 at 10:28 pmThank you for writing! I’m glad to hear the antihistamines are working for you. If they’re too expensive, you might try following some of the tips I wrote in this post. Good luck, and please stay in touch.
Jo
on November 29, 2016 at 11:42 amAccording to my Dr, Zyrtec is most often prescribed, as it seems to work the best. Costco Brand, “Aller-tec” is super inexpensive. The just raised the price again, from $11.99 a few years ago to $14.99 for 365 TABLETS. Affordable for anyone! Causes dry mouth tho’. :{
Humeyra’s Inquiry | Skin Tome
on April 7, 2014 at 4:48 pm[…] responded with some tips for managing the itch and advice for how to figure out if you have dermatographia: When you lightly scratch your skin does […]
Sherlee
on April 11, 2014 at 8:42 amThanks for the tips! I also found that stress is a trigger for myself. I’m so glad to find out my skin problem is not unique to myself!
Skintome
on April 11, 2014 at 4:57 pmYes stress triggers it for me too. I do yoga and go for walks on a regular basis, that helps keep my stress down. Welcome to Skin Tome ;’) You’re definitely not alone!
Judy
on January 14, 2020 at 5:44 amDoes the heat from going outdoors cause you burning and itching? It does for me and I feel trapped. Can no longer enjoy outdoors if it is warm outside. Very sad.
Jill
on April 14, 2014 at 10:31 amI was just diagnosed with this 4 days ago… I was given a prescription for it, but all weekend I was so drowsy that I had to nap every single day and than I was in bed for the night 5 hours later.. It just started 2 weeks ago when spring began to happen… I have always had allergies but NEVER like this !! I don’t know where to start with seeing what triggers it
Skintome
on April 14, 2014 at 7:21 pmHmm, well you could get an allergy test (with blood work, skin tests don’t work on us ;’). Other than that, I hear the elimination diet is good at identifying which foods you may be allergic to. If it’s something in the air, rinsing your nose with a neti pot does wonders to clear sinuses (just make sure you boil the water and let it cool before using). I’ve found that over time, with the changes I made in my diet/lifestyle that I speak of in this post, my condition has lessened considerably. I’ve never taken antihistamines. But if that’s all that works for you, try a different type that won’t make you drowsy. Speak with your doctor about these options.
Good luck, and please stay in touch!
Fiona Orru
on September 13, 2017 at 12:39 amListen to your body. Try get some sleep or rest more and drink a lot of water. Also be careful the kind of cosmetic you use. This skin condition is always triggered by something, which has continuous effect long before the symptoms (Dermatographia) surfaces.
How Skin Writing Brings People Together | Skin Tome
on April 28, 2014 at 1:12 pm[…] Also, I realize some of us with dermatographia do not think it’s cool, because it’s extremely uncomfortable (never mind embarrassing), and actually hurts and itches to the point of drawing blood from scratching so much. I am so sorry for your pain. Please speak with your doctor about this, and seek other treatments if your antihistamines aren’t working (sometimes you need to change the dose and/or type). There are also natural treatments that I’ve found to be very helpful. I write about my experience here. […]
Paul’s
on November 19, 2018 at 12:50 pmI totally agree with you. I can draw cute smiley faces and other doodles on my skin but like you said, it may be cool to some but to others like me, those raise welts get hot!! They itch like hell!! And they burn!! My life has been a mess with this condition.
Nehal
on May 11, 2014 at 1:18 amI’ve had this since I was a child! Today I found out that it has a name. It’s never really bothered me, but I have realized that stress makes it worse.
Ariana Page Russell
on May 12, 2014 at 6:09 pmHi Nehal! Thanks for writing. I agree, stress definitely makes it worse. That’s why I do yoga and other exercise. I find that helps!
help me
on June 6, 2018 at 2:57 pmi have skin wrirting 2 its awful i dont like drawing on my skin will this stay forvere
tips plz
Beverly
on May 15, 2014 at 4:33 pmAriana – I have had dermographia since I was about six months old, and mine is brought on by not only pressure, but temperature changes. Too hot, I break out. Too cold, I break out. Bra strap too tight, I break out. However, I have noticed that as I have gotten older (am 56 now), it gets better, so maybe there is an advantage to aging! Here’s to happier skin!
Ariana Page Russell
on May 19, 2014 at 12:26 amHi Beverly! Yes, I have heard that it goes away as we get older. Advantage of aging for sure! Thanks for writing, and please keep in touch. I’d like to know if your dermatographia goes away completely.
connie wan
on December 6, 2018 at 8:07 pmme too! except im in school still….
Bonnie
on September 29, 2019 at 2:53 amI am 67 year old vegan and just developed this after taking antibiotics for a UTI. I went to a dermatologist and was told I have dermatographia. I was told to take zyrtec and acid reducer. The acid reducer made me get heartburn and the zyrtec made me dizzy and exhausted and very depressed but did stop the itching and redness. My vagina is very itchy and irritated and when I feel like I have to urinate it feels really weird but goes away when I urinate. The doctor told me because I am older to put estrogen cream there which seems to irritate it the next day. The zyrtec seemed to help with that also. I am not digesting my food properly now. I take vegan probiotics and multivitamin. I have also tried vegan yogurt and greek yogurt. I am going to see an allergist this week but not sure they can help.
Ariana
on October 6, 2019 at 3:37 pmBonnie I’m so sorry to hear that! What did your allergist say?
Did you see my other post How I *Almost* Cured My Dermatographia, The All Natural Way ? Something in there might work for you like it worked for me.
Hope you’re feeling better!
Emily
on May 19, 2014 at 8:57 amI have had this condition for almost a year now. I also have had Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis (autoimmune hypothyroid) for about 7 years that I know of. Do you think Dermatographism may be related or even autoimmune? I work in the clincial medical field and started noticing my hands being severely inflamed and itchy every time I took off my gloves. I thought I had developed an allergy to the gloves that I have used for many years. So the hospital ordered me gloves made out of different materail 3 diffferent times and I was allergic to all of them! Then I started noticing whenever a patient touched me it would happen and then I noticed my jewelry and then I kept noticing more and more and at that point realized I can possibly be allergic to everything including myself! So I was referred to a rheumatologist because I also had new onset pain along with these rashes, and she diagnosed me with Dermatographia and not Rheumatoid Athritis or Lupus thank God! My skin is always terribly itchy, it’s so bad it is unbearable and I am already on an antihistamine for seasonal allergies, I can not imaging what would happen if I stopped using that. But for those of you who need more relief, my doctor added Zantac 150 twice a day- when I remember to take that along with my antihistamine it is like the condition doesn’t even exist. I just hate having to take all of the medication to have any relief. I eat a healthy diet and try to minimize stress already because of my autoimmune disease. Is this something I will always have or does it eventually go away? I am definitely struggling with it on top of many other things!
Ariana Page Russell
on May 19, 2014 at 12:45 pmHi Emily! Yes, I think dermatographia is related to auto-immune disorders. Because the release of histamine is an immune system response, I think some of us are predisposed to other conditions as well, and vice versa. Thank you for writing! I would love to feature you on Skin Tome too. Feel free to email me anytime arianapage@gmail.com
Beverly
on May 20, 2014 at 2:01 pmI can tell you that at age 56 the condition has lessened over the years. I have had it since just after birth and pretty severe, but it does get better. I am taking a Zyrtec every night and that also helps.
Ariana Page Russell
on May 20, 2014 at 10:24 pmHi Beverly! I’ve heard from others too that the condition lessens with age. I know mine is definitely getting better and I’m only 35, but I also have made some major dietary changes lately too. I do not take antihistamines though.
Sara Funk
on April 9, 2015 at 3:07 pmHi Beverly,
I have had similar problems after giving birth to my second child. Now 17 years later I think I have cured my problem. I suggest you look up Candida albicans. As soon as I eliminated all sugar from my diet, yes even fruit…my skin cleared up. The book that explained it to me is called “The Body Ecology Diet, by Donna Gates”. Good luck and I hope it works for you. If so spread the word.
Ariana Page Russell
on April 10, 2015 at 12:39 pmThanks for the note Sara! Glad to hear eliminating sugar has helped so much. We all have our different triggers–sugar is definitely a big one!
Connie Davis
on May 1, 2016 at 8:03 pmInteresting…as I also, have Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis and was diagnosed with dermatographia within the last year. I do notice that stress is my biggest trigger (don’t notice any foods, clothes, perfumes or detergents that I use that cause it). Any further information that you can provide would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you.
John
on May 19, 2014 at 10:07 pmDoes anyone have any lotions they typically like to use every day and have had great long term (key words) luck with? Most lotions with ‘anti-itch’ meds in them cannot be used for large areas of the body or for prolonged use. Thank you. John
Ariana Page Russell
on May 20, 2014 at 10:40 pmHi John! I don’t use anti-itch lotions because in my experience they actually make the symptoms worse. I’ve found that coconut oil is a miracle moisturizer/soothes itchiness, almond oil is pretty good too. The key is to not put too much on though, otherwise it can be very greasy. Let me know if you decide to try it out!
Kim
on December 28, 2016 at 9:12 amI use equate eczema lotion and put it on right after I get out of the shower without drying myself. My doctor told me to do this! I also take a multivitamin with multi minerals and a probiotic everyday. I use everything unscented! And I take a Cetrizine everyday! I had an allergy test done. Had to take take blood and test since my skin is the way it is. I’m allergic to dust mites!
Shauna
on May 19, 2014 at 10:21 pmI thought when I became vegan the dermatographia would go away or tone down. It did get rid of my plantars warts, but my skin is still as sensitive. I eat incredibly healthy, drink only water (and tons of it) and exercise regularly. No luck here!
Ariana Page Russell
on May 20, 2014 at 10:32 pmHi Shauna! Have you tried using coconut oil on your skin? Since I started using only coconut or almond oil to clean and moisturize my skin I’ve noticed a huge improvement in symptoms. Also, taking probiotics has helped me. Others have told me being vegan worked for them. It’s interesting how it’s so different for everyone!
Samia
on May 19, 2014 at 11:12 pmToday I can give my condition the name!!! Believe it or not I have seen so many doctors but no one identified the condition with this name. May be in my country people don’t see it. I have suffered a lot. Your tips are going to change so many things for me. Thank you so much
Ariana Page Russell
on May 20, 2014 at 10:30 pmYou’re welcome Samia! Let me know how it goes. Hope your symptoms get better!
Tasha
on May 20, 2014 at 10:56 amI’ve noticed that when I eat a lot of mango, my symptoms lessen, especially the itching. I may still welt up but the itching goes way down. I’m not sure if I could eat mango everyday though because of the sugar, but I try to have one at least twice a week.
Ariana Page Russell
on May 20, 2014 at 10:27 pmWhoa that’s cool! Thanks for sharing, Tasha. I love mango.
Shish
on May 27, 2014 at 11:57 pmThe antihistamine that works best for me is Zyrtec. I make sure I break the small 10mg pill into half, and only consume 5mg at a time. The relief is almost instant (around 15 mins). The effect of one dose of 5mg lasts me 3 days before the itching starts again.
Thanks everyone for sharing their experiences and remedies. I’ll try those and will report back.
John
on May 28, 2014 at 4:58 amWow, you’re lucky. Zyrtec does nothing for me. 3 days. I dream of something that works that well.
Ariana Page Russell
on May 28, 2014 at 10:59 amThank you Shish! I’m glad to hear you’ve figured out something that helps the symptoms.
B
on November 19, 2015 at 3:50 pmZyrtec has the same effect on me. I have had this most of my life and before Zyrtec I was miserable.
Don’t Try To Hide It! Aeessa’s Story | Skin Tome
on June 19, 2014 at 12:34 pm[…] to make some dietary changes and it will significantly improve. I wrote about it on Skin Tome here. For me, antihistamines are not necessary because I’ve figured out how to manage my […]
How Dermatographia Can Make You A Model | Skin Tome
on August 4, 2014 at 12:48 pm[…] ago. I shared my knowledge of managing dermatographia symptoms (which I wrote about previously on SkinTome), and we got to know each other a little bit. Turns out Denisa is an aspiring model. She shared […]
jonny bunyip
on September 6, 2014 at 6:37 pmI just contracted this in last few weeks also, I have a fairly organic diet, brew my own beer, catch fish and seafood, work in construction in the tropics 60 hrs a week, generally live a content stressless life. I can pin point the morning I woke up with it, didn’t have it one night, woke up with it next morning. The night before, id celebrated a bit, lots of home brew beer, fresh cooked mud crab, contact with babies, unfamiliar dogs and plants, and had been doing wood work with iron bark, an Australian native hard wood. With toxic properties, which I had probably inhaled some of the dust.. I don’t want a lifetime on pills so I will eventualy try the elimination diet and follow some of the suggestions I found here and on the net. But I was wondering a few things , since I work hard and drenched in sweat a lot and doing physical tasks I need a relief from the itch (i also have dreadlocks, itchy enough in the tropics) does anyone know of naturaly prescribed or more so, organic antihistermines.,and does any one know of links to seafood with this.or beer or animals? And an observation I’ve made viewing the photos is that people with the condition don’t seem to have body hair , was wondering if any hairy people out there have dermatographia? That’s just a curiosity..mean while ill continue to write some.skin poetry,,Haha, there is definitely an upside to this downside. Was thinking to create a coffee table book of body art,,Haha, my mum said she would buy one!
Ariana Page Russell
on September 8, 2014 at 10:01 amI will buy your book too! ;’) Thanks for the note, it’s great to hear your dermatographic story. I’m not sure of a natural antihistamine, but will certainly let you know if I come across one. As I’ve said before on this blog, coconut oil has been extremely helpful for my itchy skin. Maybe you can keep some of it with you while you’re working, and rub in on if you get a scratch? Let me know what you find! Also, I have not heard of any links with seafood, beer, or animals, but I do know that as we get older and exposed to more pollutants, an allergy can just appear like that. Very interesting! Please keep in touch. I’m curious to learn what you figure out…
Annie
on September 23, 2014 at 4:44 pmHi! I have had some success with a natural antihistamine called Quercetin. It takes a while for it to build up in your system, and since mine is pretty bad I have to suplement with cetirizine. Hopefully it will work for you!
Justin
on January 1, 2017 at 2:26 pmHi everyone, have this problem too and I am also on Zyrtec. Natural Products that I use for our skin problem include: Coconut oil and Witch Hazel, Tea Tree(oil or hand-soap). The main, natural, anti-inflammatories I have come across would be Curcumin found in Turmeric, and Boswellia Extract. Cloves and Ginger are two others. Trying to stay away from processed sugar is proving quite difficult haha. I did switch to Cane Sugar and I stay away from Soda. Wondering if Gluten or GMO’s could be the cause of this type of constant inflammation…? Toxins like Aluminum and Fluoride could also be involved, i’m not sure… Well that’s about it, i have found no simple answer. Good luck to all of you.
Evelyn’s Skin Story | Skin Tome
on September 25, 2014 at 3:01 pm[…] all I know about dermatographia! In the meantime, you can find out more on my SkinTome post here. Please keep in touch, and thanks […]
Beth
on October 3, 2014 at 6:39 pmOMG mean I am not crazy. I have been this way for years. From head to toe when I am real bad. Usually presure points from cloths even when I remove my shoe. I am going through a real bad time at this time. I would just love to be without cloths because everywhere things are tight it is awful and welts so bad. I was diagnosed years ago with Chronic Fatigue Immune Disfunction Disorders does seem to be real bad if I am beginning to get something. All I can say right today is help I am miserable but THANK YOU for sharing and making me feel I am not nuts. Doctors just look at me like they don’t understand. By the time I get to doctor the spell has stopped. THANK YOU again
Beverly
on October 4, 2014 at 12:46 amBeth – you and me both! Been this way since I was a few months old, couldn’t even wear the baby rubber pants because the pressure of the elastic would cause welts. Any pressure from too tight clothes, if I get too hot or cold, even leaning on a hard surface will cause them. Literally scalp to soles on bad days. But it does get better as you get older, like in your forties. Tepid baking soda baths help with the itching, but Benadryl can be my best friend when the itching gets the better of me. You are not alone. Or crazy, but the itching can sure MAKE you crazy. Hang tough.
Beth
on October 4, 2014 at 8:35 amIt just helps to know I am not alone. I just was holding grandson and I am so bad at the moment that the pressure on my arms started another break out. Hanging tough. Just helps after 25 years to figure out what it is
Beverly
on October 4, 2014 at 1:23 pmYeah sometimes I would just wake up covered from head to toe for no reason. Sometimes stress makes it worse, but I am a pretty calm person. But since I have had it since birth I don’t think that is a big factor. Doc said I have dermatographia and temperature allergies. A lot of times I will use Benadryl spray or cream as they really help. Think good thoughts, Beth. It does stop.
Ariana Page Russell
on October 6, 2014 at 10:51 amThanks for all of your input, Beverly!
Ariana Page Russell
on October 6, 2014 at 10:50 amYou’re welcome Beth! And welcome to SkinTome ;’) You are definitely not alone.
Hazel
on October 26, 2014 at 7:47 amHi, my condition started just last week. It’s so irritating. My skin itches so badly, so I had to scratch it. But when I scratch it, it leaves red bumpy marks on my skin. Is this really dermatographia? If it really is, then what can I do to cure ut permanently? Thanks for your help in advance.
Ariana Page Russell
on October 26, 2014 at 3:02 pmIt sure sounds like dermatographia! Unfortunately there is no cure, but if you try some of the things recommended on this blog, hopefully it will help ease your discomfort.
Let us know how it goes!
Jamie
on October 30, 2014 at 11:49 pmI can’t believe I found a page with others that have this! I am so encouraged!!! I seriously thought I was the only one! I have had this condition since about 2004, was finally “diagnosed” in about 2009-2010 (?) with “stress-induced hives” or urticaria, and only recently realized it’s dermatographism! For a while, celexa helped but then it stopped helping, so I weaned off of it about 6 months ago. Antihistamines don’t really help. As I’m reading the posts on this page, I’m realizing that my fear may become reality….that I may need to go off of sugar and dairy (my 2 favorite food groups) in order to have relief from this. Is it worth it to me? I don’t know. I’ve lived with chronic itching for so long that it’s honestly just part of my life. I hate it, but I accept it too. Do I want to get rid of it badly enough to get rid of sugar and dairy? I don’t know! I love sugar, LOVE IT – I could literally survive on sugar alone, I think (are we sensing a problem here?) – so there’s my dilemma…is there any hope for me besides just going off of my favorite foods? Or it is one or the other? Do I need to pick sugar and hives OR no sugar and no hives? Thanks in advance 🙂
Ariana Page Russell
on November 1, 2014 at 2:28 pmHi Jamie, thanks for writing! Well, I don’t think you need to give up sugar and dairy, but I do think it helps to eat these things in moderation. I still eat cookies and chocolate once in awhile, and have a little bit of cheese pretty much every day. For me, the biggest trigger has been gluten, but everyone is different. The best thing to do is experiment on yourself: try eliminating some foods and see if it helps. Also, drinking lots of water and eating plenty of fruits and veggies has helped me a lot. Again, it’s different for everyone though. Be careful of the products you use on your skin too–certain detergents and lotions and soaps (even if they’re labelled ‘natural’) are actually pretty irritating. Like I said in this article, coconut oil is THE BEST moisturizer! And it smells so yummy ;’)
Please let us know how it goes!
marita
on November 8, 2014 at 10:18 ami have had this condition for about a year. i also have a immunesystem condition called “hypogammaclobulimia”, i wonder if there is any connection here?
Ariana Page Russell
on November 8, 2014 at 11:57 amThat’s a good question! I’m not sure, I’ll let you know if anyone else comes forward with that condition. In general though I do think it’s common to have dermatographia in addition to other autoimmune conditions. Thanks for the note!
LeAnn
on December 7, 2014 at 12:48 amI was recently diagnosed by my allergist. I am 44, going through my second divorce, and the day after I found out my step dad has pancreatic cancer my hands were itchy, red, then the base of my head, then welts with pressure, etc. Zrtec every other day controls the symptoms. Doxepin is another common treatment suggested by my allergist. I live a pretty healthy lifestyle, good diet, lots of exercise, I imagine it was brought on by emotional upset.
Ariana Page Russell
on December 9, 2014 at 9:39 pmHmmm, interesting. I’m always fascinated by how unique it is for each of us. Thanks for the note! I hope your stress levels have gone down. Yoga and meditation really help me with stress and upsets.
Maria
on May 20, 2017 at 8:01 pmHi
I have had this condition for at least 15 yrs.
My allergist has given me Alegra 2 times a day along with Zyrtec 2 times a day. They have added Singulair also. I have been on xolair injections for 5 months. I see improvement sometimes for not totally. My worse thing has been scalp itching and vaginal itching . I find coconut oil is so amazing . I’m hanging in there .
Funny I can be itch free sometimes and at times unbearable, I forgave fybromialgia
Courtney
on June 6, 2018 at 7:21 pmYour symptoms are exactly like mine and I’m on the same meds. I was just switched to Xyzal replacing the Zyrtec and it seems to work better.
Akansha
on December 28, 2014 at 2:00 pmWell I have tried many doctors but I never got response that I wished I think I will never get OK I don’t want but forcefully I have to live with this and seriously I don’t Want to live with it
Ariana Page Russell
on January 3, 2015 at 5:42 pmHi Akansha! Sorry to hear about your discomfort. Have you tried the things I mention in this post? They have all helped me so much! And if that doesn’t help, maybe you can try antihistamines? Let us know how it goes!
Fabiola
on December 29, 2014 at 7:04 pmI have dermatographia for 14 years now (since I was 15). It started pretty severe, during a summer vacation at the beach. Maybe it was triggered by the sun, the sunscreen? We can never be sure.
I was immediately diagnosed and prescribed Zyrtec, which worked, but made me too sleepy. So I changed to Hixizine. For many years, I was completely dependent on it (one 25mg pill every single night). Slowly, I started to reduce it. These days I take only one pill a week! I didn’t get rid of it entirely (yet), but I’m still pretty happy about my progress so far.
It was really nice to come across this post. It’s so difficult to find useful information about dermatographia. Doctors don’t help much either. Like many of us, I tried a lot of doctors, only to find they know nothing about finding the causes or a treatment for dermatographia. All they say is that it’s probably caused by stress and that I should try to relax, so it can disappear by itself. Well, I know anxiety is a huge component, I that kind of advice just doesn’t take us very far.
I recently decided to try an elimination diet and observe what happens. I also started to meditate and exercise more. I guess that kind of trial-and-error is the only way for us to learn something about our own special condition. I feel very encouraged by your post. And I’m surely going to try all of your tips!
Fabiola
on December 29, 2014 at 7:12 pm*I know anxiety is a huge component, but I think that kind of a advice just doesn’t take us very far.
Ariana Page Russell
on January 3, 2015 at 5:40 pmThanks for the note Fabiola! Yes, I think trial-and-error is the only way to learn because we are all unique in our symptoms and triggers. What works for me might not work for you. Let us know how it goes with your experiments!
Trinatha
on December 29, 2014 at 10:55 pmHey i want to ask about something. Yea i got dermatographia. But can i have a skincare treatment on my face like do a facial in a skin clinic?
Trinatha
on December 29, 2014 at 10:58 pmI have a dermatographia since about 7 or 8 months ago. and im 15
Trinatha
on December 29, 2014 at 11:01 pmThanks Russel for making this site so that we can share more about this kind of things.
Ariana Page Russell
on January 3, 2015 at 5:36 pmYou’re welcome! Thanks for writing ;^)
Astha
on December 31, 2014 at 1:17 amThere is too much itching in my body especially during night time. I usually study at night and bcoz of this itching I am not able to study. I don’t know why the moment I go to bed my whole body starts itching especially back side. I am addicted to packet food and fast food.. …. And I am an emotional person sometimes I take too much of stress and I am just 16 years old. … . Please help me and tell me what should I do to get relief from dis
Ariana Page Russell
on January 3, 2015 at 5:33 pmHi Astha, You might want to try antihistamines–talk to your doctor about it first though. Also, I suggest you eat more fresh food and fruits and vegetables, and less fast/processed foods. This has made a big difference for me! Exercise can help relieve stress, and so can mediation and yoga. Find what works for you by trying out different things to see what you like. Good luck! Let us know how it goes.
Andrew
on November 26, 2017 at 8:43 pmIve been suffering in this condition for years and it is getting worse..what should i do?I need help.
Deepak
on January 15, 2015 at 2:09 pmCheck what I have written below. May help you! I too had a similar condition. It occurs mostly at night. Especially in the back, upper arms, legs..
Ariana Page Russell
on January 16, 2015 at 5:57 pmWow interesting! I’ve never heard of that treatment before. Thanks for letting us know!
Deepak
on January 15, 2015 at 2:06 pmOMG..I have been searching for what I was undergoing for the past few years! I am not sure if this (Dermatographia) is my condition. I get long red rashes. It started in 2008 end. It was very intense for around 3 years. Every two days I took a strong anti histamine(Cetrizine) to bring it under control or else it was really hard to bear. It was like Avil gives me one day of relief and Cetrizine 2 days!! So, went with the latter med. Given the danger involved in taking anti histamines for a long term, I thought of trying out something else that soothes this itching. Diet restrictions didn’t work. Calamine lotion, oil, blah blah nothing worked. Finally, I tried FINE talcum powder (suggested by my mom). I persevered through those tough days without taking anti histamines but applying fine talcum powder. I saw improvements. Now, it is under control. Rashes seldom appear but itching is well under control. At present, I need to apply fine talc powder only on the rarest occasions.
Elizabeth
on February 18, 2015 at 10:10 pmSo I am having a really bad reaction tonight and I started googling bad Idea I am just worried my condition is going to get worse …. So my question is say people’s ichy ness is a 5 on the scale of 1-10 do people normally stay at a 5 or go up. Thank you
Ariana Page Russell
on February 21, 2015 at 9:28 amHi Elizabeth! If you take good care of yourself and try some of the suggestions I write about here, your dermatographia shouldn’t get worse. Try coconut oil for the itch–it helps me a lot!
Carlos
on February 23, 2015 at 8:00 pmWow you guys are awesome ! I’m a skinwriter too! I’ve suffered so much gotten made fun of for marks on my face, failed relationships name it. Everything that comes with having dermatographism I’ve experienced. My worst day was my second year, finally going to see a specialist a dermatologist drove far and spent money to see the Dr. I left home crying because the Doctor was mean as hell made me feel like I’m some dude crying for attention. It’s not like I wanted her to touch me or nothing. She simply couldn’t help me and was a “B” about it. It’s a lonely world when nobody understands, having to go to work with no special treatment like everyone else it’s been hell.. My skin sometimes feels like it’s on fire, literally. I’ve gone vegan for three months I lost a lot of lean body mass little to no improvement I am very athletic even as a sufferer. stress definitely a trigger! So is sugar. I’ve felt so alone it’s nice to know I am not. The only thing that has always worked for me is Zyrtec. i understand I’m slowly poisoning my body. And I am willing to try new things thank you for everything! All your work an time put in on this page. I love coconut oil I never thought of putting it on 🙂 thanks again. Have a blessed day.
Ariana Page Russell
on February 26, 2015 at 12:11 pmHi Carlos! Thanks for the note. Let us know how the coconut oil works for you! I love that stuff and use it for everything : )
I hope your condition gets better, as well as people’s responses to it!
Melissa
on February 26, 2015 at 3:36 pmI’m sorry you’ve felt alone, glad you found this community. I’ve be suffering this condition since 2009. I had a great grandfather who suffered through it without meds and can’t imagine what he endured. I too use Zyrtec but hate it. I pray they find a cure someday soon.
Lisa
on February 24, 2015 at 3:50 amI love this article! There’s so much for me to learn about this.I just got diagnosed with this condition.
Ariana Page Russell
on February 26, 2015 at 12:08 pmThanks Lisa! Welcome to SkinTome : )
Elliott
on February 25, 2015 at 1:33 amI’ve had this condition for about 6 months now and it’s slowly getting more severe with the itching. I’ve tried Hydroxyzine, which is a prescription anti-histamine. It seemed to work for a little while and can say that it hasn’t seemed to work that well. Additionally, I’ve been prescribed a topical ointment called Fluocininide which has helped with the itching on a as needed basis. Also, i use a topical 1% hydrocortisone cream for the itching that seems to help, too. But not sure it’s safe to use on a long-term basis. Worst time of day is the night for some reason. Maybe that’s connected to the glass or two of wine I have with dinner. Makes sense that sugar and alcohol exacerbate the symptoms.
Thank you for the website here.
Elizabeth
on February 25, 2015 at 11:34 amMine seems to get worse at night also I always connect it to the fact that I have been wearing clothing that is rubbing on me all day long and I am thinking about it more.
Hope this helps
Ariana Page Russell
on February 26, 2015 at 12:04 pmThanks for the info Elliott! Let us know how it goes when you try different things. It’s amazing that what works for one person doesn’t necessarily help another…
Laquenna
on March 9, 2019 at 11:55 amHello I have the same problem can you tell me what soap,lotion and detergent can I use to avoid this thank you
Ariana
on March 10, 2019 at 5:16 pmHi! I updated my Dermatographia page to include some recommendations for products good for sensitive skin like ours. I hope that helps! Let me know if you have any other questions and/or need more recommendations :+)
Christina
on March 21, 2015 at 1:32 pmI have had the condition for over 2 years. Beer and Wine are definitely triggers along with sugary substances. Try not to take hot showers for too long, make sure you lotion up – keep moisturized (I’m going to try the coconut oil and the fine talcum powder! thanks for the suggestions).
I’ve been told that thyroid conditions trigger skin irritations, so see your doctor to check that out. I got it checked out and ruled out.
Good Luck all!
Ariana Page Russell
on March 22, 2015 at 3:58 pmHi Christina! Thanks for writing. Yes, I think coconut oil is magic for easing itchiness. Let us know how it goes!
And I’ve heard about a thyroid connection too. Definitely good for people to be aware of!
Heather
on March 22, 2015 at 5:50 amI just found out I had this two days ago but I’ve had symptoms for over a year. Mine itch so bad I will scratch myself until I bleed. I take zyetec everyday and it seems to help with the itching, not the redness or blotchiness. If I don’t take it, its unbearable. I have noticed that if I drink a lot of water, it does help. Sounds like I need to start exercising too. It’s nice to finally know what’s goin on with my skin and how I can help it besides taking medicine. Thanks for the info on here everybody.
Ariana Page Russell
on March 22, 2015 at 4:05 pmHi Heather! Good to hear from you. Let us know how your experiments go :^)
Charlotte Menz
on April 10, 2015 at 5:35 amThank you, Ariana for this site. I am 70 yrs. old & have had this since I was in first grade. I ate an orange & started itching with the resultant red bumps. My teacher thought I had something contagious & sent me to the school nurse. So many things trigger it that I couldn’t begin to list all but, the biggies are citrus, citric acid, rum, dairy. I love Honey Crisp apples but itch every time & relate it to the citric acid. I take generic Zyrtec every night, otherwise would not be able to sleep because of the itching.
Ariana Page Russell
on April 10, 2015 at 12:37 pmHi Charlotte! Thanks for the note. Glad you found us! It’s good to hear you’ve identified your triggers and know what to avoid. I’m surprised to learn you’ve had dermatographia for so many years. Usually people say it goes away in their 40’s or 50’s. Just goes to show how unique it is for everyone!
Jami Shelton
on January 20, 2020 at 5:19 pmI had this a couple times when I was 16 and that’s when I was first diagnosed. I am not 59 and have had it several times a year from about 45-59, but ever since June, I have had it every single day! I am surper frustrated and have stopped wearing bras and even underwear because of it. Anytime ANYTHING touches me, I get a rash. I wear loose fitting clothes and get a rach and then wheals (hives) everywhere I scratch. My skin feels irritated and burning. My doctor said to take a Zyrtec or Allegra during the day and Hydroxicine or something like that at night. The Zyrtec did not help and the one time I took Hydroxicine, it knocked me out. The good thing is if you can stop scratching, it will go away. The wheals (hives) usually go away within 20-30 minutes for me. I have a high-stress job and was particularly stressed in June when I began getting it again, and do lead a relatively stressful life so I am wondering it it’s from that, but I find I get it even when I’m not feeling stressed. I am worried about some underlying condition that could be causing it, like cancer or something. Has anyone heard anything about that? I’m definitely going to try coconut oil. Glad I found this site!
MeLissa Thresher
on April 10, 2015 at 12:47 pmMine started in my early 40s! Now I am 47 and it is getting worse.
Christina
on April 15, 2015 at 2:09 amHello! While I was just trying to sleep, the incessant itchiness was keeping me awake so I decided to do some more research on the nuisance that is my (well, our) skin. I’m 20 years old and have had this condition for as long as I can remember. My dad used to have it but it’s declined in recent years (he’s 52). I don’t actually remember the last time I heard him complain about it. Like many others posting in this forum, mine is definitely triggered with stress and cold temperatures. Since I’ve always lived with it I’ve never considered the fact that food may be making it worse? I’ve found that antihistamines do help when it gets really bad but I’ve never been entirely comfortable with the idea of taking them all the time. I’ve wanted to see a dermatologist for a while now but everything I read online recommended nothing more than antihistamines. I’m tired of my body reflexively jerking and twitching because of how strong an itch will be as it suddenly pops up and spreads, not to mention the embarrassing and utterly horrid welts. Anyways, I wanted to thank you because it’s great to see forum posts like this and know that I’m not alone. I’ll definitely be regularly checking in!
Ariana Page Russell
on April 17, 2015 at 11:58 amYou’re welcome Christina! Thanks for the note. Let us know how it goes if you decide to adjust your diet and experiment.
Liza
on April 15, 2015 at 9:42 pmHi, my dermatographism only developed a bit over a year ago and it’s mostly only on my legs. I’ve had severe pain and itchiness and I scratched way too much, only making it worse. Nothing seemed to be helping, but my dermatologist has been having me take Allegra in the morning, prescription Zyrtec at night and I’m using prescription lotion on my legs twice a day and after showers, along with a humidifier at night. Everything combined finally seems to be giving me some relief. I was going to post on this website after I was happy to find it a few weeks ago and say that nothing has helped me so far, but with these new meds and trying to be better about following a routine to preventively treat my skin, I want to post my comment, in case it helps anyone else. My skin has been chronically awful for over a year and it’s finally starting to feel better, so I highly suggest the prescription Zyrtec and prescription lotion! If having the specific names for the prescriptions, help, I can post those too. Thank you for creating this website so I know I’m not the only one with this skin issue!
Ariana Page Russell
on April 17, 2015 at 12:00 pmHi Liza! Glad to hear you found something that works for you. Have you tried experimenting with cutting out certain food triggers? This can be very powerful, especially in conjunction with the antihistamines. Let us know how it goes!
Richa
on April 17, 2015 at 3:54 pmHi Ariana, thank u so much for your post i m suffering from this disease from last 2 year when i moved to EST. from than i am taking antihistamines pricibed bt dermatologist n now by Allergist. The only problem with medicine i have memory loss big tone & weight gain even i m not eating so much carbs though.
I am getting my celiac trst done for gluten. One thing i noticed that it happenes with me when i am stressful mostly.
I wish we could get magic poll to get rid of it m live normal life with no fear of itching or hives. The wirst part is my skin crackiling like i m a new born baby. I too apply cocunut & vitamin e oil.
Ariana Page Russell
on April 20, 2015 at 2:41 pmThanks for the note! Please let us know how it goes with the coconut oil and gluten free diet experiments. Sugar can also be a huge trigger for people–try cutting back on that too!
angie
on April 26, 2015 at 11:28 pmI have had this for almost 6 months now,I’m literally suffering every day and night time is worse .I am covered from my toes to my ears lines and hooves everywhere. My doctor is testing me for other auto I immune disease due to the fact I have other symptoms.this sucks any relief i can get is helpful.I love the coconut oil but it doesn’t do much for my itching.
Ariana Page Russell
on April 29, 2015 at 8:46 pmI’m sorry to hear that Angie! Have you tried an elimination diet? It may be something you’re eating that is triggering the itch. Let us know how it goes.
Mike l.
on May 10, 2015 at 10:11 pmSo I have a question about exercise
I have had this condition for about 30 years. It has been a little better since I have aged but. I cannot exercise/run without breaking out badly. I miss running but I can’t enjoy it with this intense itching. I take zyrtec but it only part helps for running. Any suggestions?
Ariana Page Russell
on May 25, 2015 at 2:35 pmHi Mike! Do you drink lots of water? It might help to make sure you’re really hydrated before and after exercise. You can also experiment with dietary changes and perhaps an elimination diet… Let us know how it goes!
Itchy Sandoval
on May 31, 2015 at 6:59 pmHello all.
I have had this since I was 11. I’m now 35.
It gets really bad at times (like now) and I am so very uncomfortable.
From the bottoms of my feet, to my scalp. I literally want to scrape my skin off.
I was taking Hydroxyzine 25mg, which really helps! The dosage is 1 every 4 hours. I didn’t even have to take it that much! I could take 1 every day, sometimes 1 every other day.
I’ve recently stopped taking it, and I am sure feeling it!
My skin is crawling ;(
I’m looking for something more organic.
I’ve tried coconut oil & Epsom salt mix, which helps, but not much.
Anyone have any other at home remedies?
Please and thank you in advance!
– The Itchy One
Ariana Page Russell
on June 1, 2015 at 6:09 pmHi Itchy! Have you experimented with avoiding certain foods and/or soaps, detergents, lotions– that kind of thing? We all have different triggers and it’s most helpful to do your own experiments (including the Elimination Diet) to determine what irritates your skin, and what works to soothe it. Let us know how it goes!
Lou
on June 19, 2015 at 2:27 pmTwo years ago i got diagnosed with dermatographia. I had no idea at that time what do i have to deal with.This blogg helped me alot to deal with this think and i am so thankfull for. So, anyway i ended up twice to emergency room, several times to my family doctor, 3 times to the specialist and 3 times to the allergist.According with all of them i supposed to deal with this for the rest of my life and if i am lucky enough , maybe 5 to 10 years. I was devastated. The allergy test told me that i am allergic pretty much to anything except banana, rice and honey.This is what i eat for more then a month. However, i started to do some reserch , reading articles on the internet in several languages, etc. I remember before i got sick i was visiting my home country for a 6 weeks and i didn’t feel well with my stomach (different food, water,etc).I lost 15 lb in this time and 2 days after arriving home i got my all body itchy , red,etc.
Anyway i learned that you have to reboost the immunity system and i went to a pharmacy and got immunity system boost vitamins.Before i had pretty much everything the docor can prescribe and nothing worked.After 2 weeks of taking the vitamins i noticed i’m getting better, not that itchy , not that red ,etc. I was very happy at this point.After 4 months every symptome disappeared. I went back to the allergist , did the test and no allergy showed up.I am very thankfull and happy and i want to share this experience with all of you , maybe somebody else will encouter the same miracle. I pray for you and i hope all of you will get better and forget about this disease. Allways believe that the best doctor is yourself.
Ariana Page Russell
on June 19, 2015 at 2:38 pmHi Lou, thanks so much for sharing your story! That is amazing–I’m so glad to hear you’re doing better! I agree, we are our best doctors. Especially because our bodies and skin are so unique. I hope everyone who reads your comment is as inspired by your story as I am. Thank you!
Angie
on June 24, 2015 at 12:07 pmI have had dermagraphitism for 6 years. It was triggered immediately after H1N1 vaccination, it started in my feet and up my body, and the last place to become affected was my face. I noticed that I always had red patches of skin that were consistent, and of course the skin writing. I seen a dermatologist, and was tested for allergies. I was told I have no allergies, but sensitive skin. My skin is attacking it’s own cells. I have been managing with loratadine 10 mg, and can go without this medication for 3 days, any longer, I start to get itchy. I was pregnant 4 years ago, and did my own research, and asked the MD to Px me diclectin which I took during my pregnancy. I was less reactive during pregnancy, but needed to still control this disease. Right now it is controlled, however, I have issues with water retention. Edema often pools in my lower extremities on a daily basis, which prevents me from being able to exercise. I also take hydrocholothiazide 25 mg once a week to get the excess fluid out of my body. I just started taking other supplements to help – it seems like I get a lot of inflammation from accumulation of fluids – and this worries me over the long term. After reading this, I am going to change my diet and reduce carbohydrates in my diet.
Ariana Page Russell
on July 2, 2015 at 1:38 pmAwesome Angie! Please let us know how it goes! Thanks for writing in about your experience :^)
Justin
on January 1, 2017 at 2:44 pmHey Angie, you might want to look into doing a Heavy Metal Cleanse, especially if you were triggered right after a vaccination. There is Aluminum in most of the older Vaccines and in the air we breath. We can only take in so much before it poisons us. Take caution and read up on it, there IS a certain way to do it so that you do not poison yourself by releasing too many toxic metals at once or not taking in enough minerals to replace what is taken out. Good luck
Angeler
on June 25, 2015 at 2:33 amHi,
I’ve been reading everyone’s post as I’m trying to self diagnose myself while I wait for doctors to try and figure out.
The first time I got hives was 2 weeks ago. I was fishing and my back felt itchy. Thinking it was a mosquito bite I scratched it. Turned out to be hives. The hives went away in a matter of 15 minutes. Only to return a few hours later. And again disappeared within a few minutes. The next day I decided to go to the clinic as I noticed I was randomly getting rashes anywhere on my skin. If I did scratch hives would come out. I’ve see 4 doctors so far and all have said it’s an allergic reaction to something. I’ve done allergy pills, Benadryl even prednisone and no change. I’ve made an appointment to see an allergist but it’s a 3 month wait. Now I’ve notice that if I touch myself I break out in a rash. Sometimes I can be sitting in a chair and break out on a rash on my knees. (Nothing not even clothes are touching my knees. ) or I can be sitting at my desk in my office and I’ll break out in a rash on my face or the top of my hands while I’m typing. I’m able to wear my shoe shirt bra ect without breakin out. My blankets on my bed don’t make me break out. I can lay on my back no problem. I was wondering if any of this sounds familiar.
Thank you so much for your input.
Elizabeth
on June 27, 2015 at 7:11 amI would consider environment this soaps detergents lotions and other things like that? I know that it seems like that it’s som bigger but it might be something you come in contact every day.
Angeler
on June 27, 2015 at 8:53 pmIt’s official. I have dermatographia. I really don’t know how you guys live with this day to day. It’s irritating and embarrassing. I can’t even make my bed without breaking out. It’s so uncomfortable in so many ways. I can feel myself getting depressed.
Please help. How so you explain this to people
Ariana Page Russell
on July 2, 2015 at 1:35 pmHi Angeler,
Thanks for all your comments and questions. I’m sorry to hear about the shock of your diagnoses, and hope that you’re finding what works for you. I have found that maintaining a positive attitude despite feeling frustrated with your skin will help a lot. Everything will just be easier and you’ll be less stressed (stress is a huge trigger for dermatographia)… Plus you sound like an optimistic person, don’t let your skin get you down! :^) There are many of us that have found ways to live with dermatographia, and even to learn from it.
Please let us know how it goes, keep in touch!
Regina
on June 26, 2015 at 11:45 pmI’m 28 and I’ve recently been diagnosed with this condition after pushing myself to go to the doctors. About 3 months ago I noticed myself getting really itchy under my armpits, my scalp and the back of my neck. It wasn’t until the end of May that I had my first line/hive breakout. Then it continued pretty much everyday, but only on the upper portion of my body. It would come and go without too much itch. A few weeks ago I traveled to Puerto Rico for 13 days and only broke out a few times and it was pretty minor. I believe the fresh air in the mountains and relaxation helped a lot. When I returned home the breakouts seemed to be more frequent and all over my body (minus my knees down.) It has started to become more itchy and my ears also start to burn. Now my face is also getting affected with red bloches. I myself do not like to take any medicine, but I had to see a doctor to find out what was going on since I’m planning to become pregnant within the next few months. My primary doctor told me it might be dermatographism, ran blood work (I’m waiting on the results) and referred me to an allergist. I saw the allergist and she also said I have dermatographism, said it is very common and blamed everything on me scratching (I showed her pictures that I had taken which included parallel lines on my skin, hives, swelling and red blotches.) She had turned me off by her rudeness. There I was sitting in her office without any scratch marks, but with red blotches on my arms that where just appearing. She did run a 106 allergy test which all came back negative. She made me feel like I have mental issues and that I am always scratching my skin, but these marks sometimes appear on their own. I’m glad I found this site and am able to read through other people’s experiences because I feel doctors really don’t know too much about this “condition.” I am going to start the elimination diet, but first I may do a cleanse. Would you happen to recommend any? Also, what probiotics do you take Ariana? I would like to add those into my diet. I use Shea butter lotion mixed with coconut oil which seems to help. But mainly if I feel myself starting to breakout (which has been happening more at night after dinner) I take a nice shower with aveno calming body wash, drink some water then lay in bed to focus on my breathing to help me calm myself and go to sleep. Tonight I applied colloidal silver (about 10 drops) on my breakouts after my shower and it seemed to minimize the hives and blotches pretty quickly, especially on my face. All comments are greatly appreciated.
Angeler
on June 27, 2015 at 12:20 amHi Regina,
Today I was officially diagnosed with dermatographia. I am 30. I’m not going to lie…. It’s definitely taking it’s toll on me emotionly and physical. I feel so helpless. I feel like I can’t be the person I was before. I was everyone’s picker upper. People call me their little ray of sunshine. Now I feel like I can’t even do the things that I love. Fish hunt ect. On top of this I have cystic fibrosis. It’s already stressful enough for me to think of explaining my cystic fibrosis to a man I might meet now this.
I have thought of doing the gluten free diet and all that. But in reality with cystic fibrosis I need all the nutrients I can get if not I will have to go on enzymes.
Right now the doctor has put me on Claritin which is an allergy pill and ranitidine (Zantac). After reading I’ve noticed that someone went to the health store and said something boost your immune system. So I went ahead and bought all naturel pills to boost my immune system. I will try anything but I must keep in mind my cystic fibrosis
I’m noticing that most of these threads are how to help the itching. But what about helping the redness not come out?
Regina: I’ve heard of that silver stuff you mentioned. Please read up on it. I personally have not found anything positive about it. But that’s me. :).
Regina
on June 30, 2015 at 11:09 amHello Angeler 🙂 thank you for your reply. Tell me about it the redness coming out, even when I don’t even feel it is definitely taking its toll! And I live in Florida so I definitely can’t be wearing a turtleneck. I’m sorry that your suffering with this and cystic fibrosis. I’m going to be heading to the vitimain store today and also to Home Depot to get a water filter. Anytime you want to talk/vent Angeler I’m here regina_sara@icloud.com is my email. Finding someone to talk to that is dealing with some of the same issues I believe will help.
Ariana Page Russell
on July 2, 2015 at 1:30 pmHi Regina,
Sorry to hear about your bad experience with the doctor! As for a cleanse, the elimination diet actually is a cleanse, so you could start with that. Otherwise, I’d recommend a 3 day Ayurvedic cleanse–they are mild and pretty easy. You just eat rice and dal for 3 days (look up instructions online). The probiotics I take are made by PB8. I like them because they’re inexpensive and totally work. Also, I have found that using soap in the shower (even a mild one like Aveeno) actually irritates my skin. That’s why I started washing with coconut oil. It makes a huge difference for me!
Thanks for all your comments and input–let us know how it goes with your experiments!
Emily
on June 28, 2015 at 5:18 pmHi Ariana and all,
Thanks for this informative post! I was diagnosed with dermatographism approximately one year ago. The onset is attributable to my hormonal IUD (Mirena), which caused a host of various other problems—ovarian cysts, stomach bloating, etc. I’ve been an avid athlete my entire life, so it’s been incredibly frustrating to go from being very healthy to visiting the ER every so often. I’m allergic to the entire penicillin family and, apparently, after a series of bloodwork and skin tests, yeast as well.
Of course, as you mentioned, the cause of every individual’s dermatographism differs and some may even be idiopathic. I’ve been on a low-yeast/yeast-free regimen, and so far, it’s helping a bit. Alongside the IUD implantation, I also moved into a new apartment in Manhattan that has been subjected to nonstop construction for the last 2.5 years that I’ve been here. As the construction has increased, my symptoms have gotten worse. My allergist mentioned that mold spores (part of the yeast family) were part of the problem, so I’m moving out of my apartment at the end of next month. Not only that, but I’ve stopped drinking tap water and will only drink filtered water (to minimize the presence of any mold spores). I’ve also begun nose irrigation, in an attempt to dislodge any mold spores in my sinuses. Stress, like many others have said, exacerbate my symptoms.
What has also helped me is to shower immediately after an intense workout. I do a lot of weightlifting and HIIT training, so I’m constantly working up a sweat. I’m more prone to rash/hive breakouts if I don’t shower immediately after a workout, so I’ve found that taking a cool shower immediately afterwards has alleviated and prevented a number of breakouts. I’ve also cut out my workout supplements for now, as my body is healing. For any of you who are also avid lifters and take whey protein isolate, casein, etc., it’s a good idea to eliminate those from your diet for now. Pre-workouts that are high in sugar and caffeine should be avoided as well. I’ve cut out coffee from my diet, as I’ve noticed that my symptoms are exacerbated when I consume coffee. Green tea is ok.
I generally eat clean as is, but I’ve now cut out all yeast-laden products. Most people also don’t realize it, but overly ripe fruits also contain a high concentration of mold spores, which should be avoided. I don’t eat ripe bananas (luckily for me, I like them slightly green), and I avoid fruits that are too soft—e.g., apples, avocados. I used to drink 1 gallon of water a day, but now I drink between 1.5-2 gallons to help flush my system. I use oatmeal-based lotions to sooth the skin, and when I’m itching terribly, I’ll use an ice pack on my lower back. As for the redness, I haven’t been able to eliminate it. What you can do to not exacerbate the condition, however, is to NOT SCRATCH. Scratching creates unseemly welts and spreads rapidly across your body. Easier said than done, I know, but try an ice pack or cold shower.
In terms of any “shame” or embarrassment associated with the condition, I’ve accepted that the more I stress over it, the worse my symptoms become. I’ve accepted that my body is currently distressed, and I’m working to remove a number of those stressors. It may be overwhelming to make a large number of changes all at once, so focus on 1-2 changes every week. That way, they’ll take more easily, and you’ll benefit more in the long run. I continue working out 5-6 times a week because it’s been a part of my life for years and, if anything, I’ve found that the release of endorphins alleviates your stress which, in turn, decreases your number of breakouts. When I feel a breakout coming on, I use military breathing exercises. Slow, deep breaths help my body calm down and reduce the release of histamines.
Hope this helps!
Regina
on June 30, 2015 at 11:18 amHello Emily 🙂 I loved reading your reply. Thank you for your motivation and tips 🙂
Ariana Page Russell
on July 2, 2015 at 1:21 pmWow Emily, thanks so much for all this information! Sounds like you’ve really figured out what works for you–that’s awesome! And I agree, our attitudes toward dermatographia make a huge difference. It’s much easier to take care of yourself when you’re not fighting what your body is doing. For me, it’s been a huge lesson in how to take care of myself, and how to take cues that I need to make changes in my diet and lifestyle.
Good luck with the move, and let us know if you notice a difference in your new place.
Thanks again! Happy 4th of July :^)
Suriya yousuf
on July 16, 2018 at 6:18 amI want to know how i can be controlled. I am 20 years old and i got dingonosed 3 months before
Emily
on June 28, 2015 at 5:27 pmAlso, in terms of probiotics, I take chewable Acidophilus tablets 3x a day. When telling my friends about my condition, I simply say that I have a hypersensitivity to yeast and that it’s largely idiopathic. I know that it seems intuitive, but being positive and tackling the problem head-on has greatly helped my symptoms as well. There’s a whole community of us afflicted with dermatographism, and we’re all here to support each other.
Here’s a list of foods that I generally avoid, as they are yeast-laden and can increase your hypersentivity:
– Corn & corn products—bread, syrup, oil, cereals
– Beer
– Black pepper
– Nuts
– Apples
– Mushrooms
– Barley
– Cheeses
– Soy sauce and other soy-derivative products (Edamame are ok)
– Chocolate
– Black tea
– Lactaid
– Coffee
– Dried fruits
-Tomato products
– Brown rice
– Rye
– Milk and all other dairy products (haven’t had issues with Greek yogurt or fresh cottage cheese)
– Processed fruit juices (only stick with fresh-squeezed juices)
– Vinegar
– Olives
– Pickles
– Mustard
– Ketchup
Because a large number of condiments appear on this list, I like to use fresh-squeezed lemon juice, garlic, ginger, and other fresh herbs to flavor my foods. I also like to use FlavorGod’s salt-free, fresh seasonings (also great for those who are bodybuilders/avid athletes or those who are a low-salt diet).
Angeler
on July 2, 2015 at 2:51 amHi y’all
First off thanks to this blog I was able to connect with someone just like me 🙂
Second: my question revolves around make up. I haven’t tried to put make up on yet since I’ve been diagnosed. (Well I put mascara once… It was fine putting it on… But absolutely hell taking it off. I looked like I had gotten beat up. And the pain !!) I guess my questions is… Does anyone have any tips on how to make taking off your make up a little less painful. I know sometimes we even get people mentioning the runny eye liner or mascara under our eyes. It’s not like I can swift my finger under my eye to fix it.
Any ideas? Thanks
Ariana Page Russell
on July 2, 2015 at 1:15 pmHi! Good question! I use regular mascara (not waterproof), and have found it stays on well enough while still being easy to take off. Every night I wash my face with coconut oil and that takes the mascara right off! I don’t really wear much makeup, but I do use a powder for sensitive skin that has a small brush for applying. It tends to make my skin a little red when I brush it on, but then goes away really quick. I make sure to brush it on at least 20 minutes before I leave the house ;^) Hope that helps.
Angeler
on July 2, 2015 at 3:48 pmWhere can I find coconut oil?
Ariana Page Russell
on July 2, 2015 at 3:53 pmI buy it at Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s, or any grocery store that carries natural foods. Be sure to only use a little bit–a little goes a long way when you’re washing your face and/or moisturizing with it! I use it for everything–the stuff works miracles for my skin and itchiness :^)
Angeler
on July 6, 2015 at 5:43 pmHi everyone,
I’m in need of your opinion. As mentioned I was recently diagnosed with dermatographia. Before I got diagnosed, I was referred to an allergist here in the small town I live in. After being diagnosed to an allergy specialist in one of the best hospitals down south. I have yet to see him. He keeps pushing our visit next appointment is in 2 weeks. My question to you is: my referral for an allergy test (a few months ago) has finally gone through. They are now aware that I have dermatographia, but still want to do an allergy skin test on me. They advise me to stop taking my antihistamine for 3 days. My appointment is Friday. I’ve read that skin test don’t work on us? Has anyone had a successful allergy skin test ? Thanks guys
Elizabeth
on July 6, 2015 at 7:57 pmThey did blood test on me to make sure I was not getting bothered by other things but he said I would react to all scratch tests so no point.
Ariana Page Russell
on July 6, 2015 at 11:33 pmI’ve heard that skin allergy tests don’t work on us because our skin reacts to everything, but I’ve never had one done. As I’ve said before, the best way to find out if you’re allergic to foods is to do an elimination diet. Blood tests can help identify other triggers. But, if you trust this doctor, you should do as he suggests. Let us know how it goes!
Angeler
on July 7, 2015 at 1:04 pmI will definitely let you guys know how it goes. This doctor isn’t my regular allergy doctor. but We’ll see how it goes.
I know I’m being a bug with all these questions. But all of this is all new to me.
With dermatographia…. Do you randomly break out in a rash. I was sitting in my office today. And felt my neck get warm. I did not touch it. My hair is up and didnt’t rub on it. My clothing did not rub my neck either. When I checked the mirror I noticed I had a rash on my neck. It was not itchy. Just warm.
Emily
on July 7, 2015 at 1:14 pm@Angeler — Yes, I randomly break out into rashes and hives. Sometimes the trigger is food from 1-24 hours ago; other times, it can appear to happen out of nowhere, though I’ve noticed that when I don’t get enough sleep and am stressed out, I break out spontaneously into hives. My skin has also become hypersensitive to things touching it, from my own hair to certain types of fabrics. I have long hair, so when I’m walking and my ponytail is swinging from side to side and touches my shoulder, my skin will become heated and start itching.
In sum, yes, you can randomly break out into rashes. Your condition isn’t abnormal. You should bring this up with your doctor to see what he may advise to externally control for or at least alleviate the symptoms of dermatographia. My doctor prescribed me a non-drying alcoholic foam that’s helped greatly, since I don’t take antihistamines.
Lastly, concerning your skin test question—while it’s true that skin tests aren’t necessarily the best test for us, they may still be worth a shot. I had a one done successfully last week. My negative control worked, and I only reacted to a few of the allergens. My allergist had bloods run anyway just to confirm, and I’m awaiting those results.
Best of luck!
Ariana Page Russell
on July 20, 2015 at 5:54 pmThanks Emily!
Ian
on July 7, 2015 at 2:07 pmThank You ! Big Help
Tanesha Mosely
on August 11, 2015 at 9:45 pmThank you!!!! I am not alone. I have been having these symptoms and have been diagnosed with dermatographia since November. Took blood allergy test and only noticed a slightly mild allergy to peanuts. Stress has been my major factor. Also when I don’t get enough sleep i notice the heated hives. I’ve started acupuncture which has help a lot with my symptoms. Not 100%, but I figured it would take time. I also have eliminated wheat, dairy and decreased sugars. But sometimes I get weak with ice cream in the summer heat.
Thank you for this site! All the best to everyone. Let’s continue to share.
Ariana Page Russell
on August 26, 2015 at 7:46 pmThanks Tanesha! Let us know how it goes! I’ve heard acupuncture really helps, but I know you have to go regularly and for a long period of time to achieve full benefits. Also, if you want a more thorough way to find out if you’re allergic to something, try the elimination diet. That’s supposed to be the best way.
And we all need some ice cream once in awhile ;D
Angie
on August 17, 2015 at 11:57 pmI been doing acupuncture for 3 months every two weeks.. And the outcome has been amazing. My lymphatic swelling has decreased next to nothing, and I haven’t had to take an antihistamine for over a month now. Just thought I would share my new insights.
Ariana Page Russell
on August 26, 2015 at 7:41 pmWow that’s amazing! Thanks for sharing Angie!
Kristen
on August 19, 2015 at 10:59 amGlad to know I am not the only one suffering! I have taken penicillin for various sicknesses throughout my life. I am 26 and 8 months ago took penicillin for an ear infection. After finishing the prescription my legs started itching. I had started a new lotion so I thought this was the cause. A couple days went by and my entire body was itching all over. Could write on my skin, my clothes bothered me, couldnt sleep. It was horrible. Since then I have gone to the allergy doctor 4 different times. She diagnosed me with the Dermatographic urticaria. After trying different doses of medicine I am now on a Zyrtec in the morning and night along with a 300 mg Zantac at night. This seems to control my itching pretty well and only when i miss a dose or two do I start to notice slight itching. 8 months later and no sign of it letting up. It can be very frustrating to deal with at times. I eat very healthy and workout all the time. I take care of myself, but with this being set off from penicillin my diet and exercise do no help my condition. My doctor told me on my last visit of a shot I can get once a month that will hopefully get me off daily medications eventually. Has anyone else had the Xolair shot?
Ariana Page Russell
on August 26, 2015 at 7:40 pmHi Kristen! You most definitely are not alone! Welcome to Skintome 😀
I took penicillin when I was 7 years old and broke out into a rash. I’ve always wondered if that had anything to do with my dermatographia. I have not taken penicillin since then.
Good luck finding a way to ease the itchiness! Let us know how it goes with the Xolair if you decide to try it. I’ve never heard of it. Have you tried doing an elimination diet? Sometimes low grade allergies will make dermatographia worse.
Marylou
on August 26, 2015 at 10:37 amRight now I’m suffering from a really bad bout of Dermatographia. This is the third time I’ve had a serious case of it in the past 2-1/2 years. I get itchy now and then when I’m not suffering from an outbreak, but I now found out the major reason for the serious breakouts. It’s being caused by my taking a supplement called “Alpha Lipoic Acid” This supplement was recommended to me by my doctor for better control of blood sugar. I tried this supplement 3 times to make sure that it was the cause, and now this past time I took it for 4-5 days (600mg) and have come down with the worst case of dermatographia. I itch terribly from head to toe and have rashes all over my body on and off depending on pressure I put on that body part.
I’m not a fan of antihistamines, but, I have to take to unfortunately take Allegra because I feel like jumping out of my skin if I don’t. Once the condition subsides a bit, I’ll go off the Allegra and deal with bearable itching.
I exercise every day, meditate at times, do deep breathing and it all helps. I also eat very healthy.
Thanks for your tip on coconut oil….. it’s been a favorite of mine for years.
Also, Lavender essential oil rubbed on the bottom of your feet at bedtime helps you relax and has it’s own anti-histamine properties.
I’m a lucky one because I know the major cause of my outbreaks. Thanks Adiana! By the way, my dermographia started for the first time in my mid 60’s. My Allergist told me to take Allegra, cream myself liberally, and not to scratch (which is the hardest thing to do). She also said that 4-5% of the population have it.
Hang in there everyone! You’re not alone!
Ariana Page Russell
on August 26, 2015 at 7:23 pmHi Marylou (that’s my grandma’s name too–such a great name)! Good to hear from you! And thanks for the tip about lavender oil. I actually just bought some yesterday, so will try that tonight. Thanks also for letting us know about Alpha Lipoic Acid. I’ve never heard that connection before, but as we all know, triggers vary widely between us dermatographs.
Welcome to Skintome!
Anna
on September 7, 2015 at 11:06 pmHonestly I’ve had this condition for almost 11 years and never even knew it had a name, but I just now came across this conditions name. My dermatographia usually flares up because of stress, high heat, or when it’s allergy season. A lot of times during exam season or during a large dance recital where I have many parts to learn its flares up really bad. I mean itchy welts and redness appear all over my face, neck, arms, and torso. It’s miserable. But thank you for these tips!! I’ll put them into use and see if it hopefully helps with my condition! I’m also glad that I’m not the only one with this!
Ariana Page Russell
on September 9, 2015 at 7:51 pmYou are definitely not the only one! Thanks for writing in, and please let us know how it goes when you try some of the tips :*)
Manal
on September 18, 2015 at 12:06 pmI have this condition and sometimes my ears would get red and itchy without a reason. I really want to pierce my ears but i have done it twice before. but my piercings never heal so i end up taking them out.is it because of the dermatographia?
Ariana Page Russell
on September 24, 2015 at 11:50 pmIt could be related to the dermatographia. But I think it’s more likely that you have sensitive skin in general. Have you tried different metals to pierce your ears? Some people are very sensitive to certain metals. Personally, my ears feel best when I have gold in them (at least 14k). Another thing that is great for piercings is if you wash them twice a day with a warm salt water rinse while they’re healing (mix 1/4 teaspoon sea salt with 8 ounces warm water). Sea salt water is a mild disinfectant and speeds healing.
Good luck and let us know how it goes if you try it again!
Angie
on October 3, 2015 at 11:53 pmI have had this for aver a year now, seem to come out of left field. I itch from head to toe. Zertec take the edge off a little but I still itch. That is the worst part. It will wake me up, bother me at work or in church. It is almost painful sometimes not to scratch it. Has anyone ever found Zyrtec doesn’t work well enough and what do you use. I hate to be on something the rest of my life but some days I feel like it is ruining my life.
Angie
on October 6, 2015 at 1:00 pmTry loradtine 10mg, it usually works 3-5 days, I never have to take it everyday. If I need something quick I will take one reactive. I noticed acupuncture really improved my dermagrapitism.
Angie
on October 6, 2015 at 11:26 pmThank You. I have never had success with Loradtine with any kids allergy. Did phase me. So do you have time you don’t itch? I do every day for a year now. I keep reading people’s blogs and post and the mention flare ups. I wish I just had flare ups.
Angie
on October 6, 2015 at 11:28 pmI didn’t mean kids. Sorry, typing on a cracked iPod.
Ariana Page Russell
on October 7, 2015 at 1:21 pmSorry to hear that Angie. Keep trying different things, like changing your diet and maybe do the elimination diet. Hopefully you’ll find some relief! Let us know how it goes.
Ariana Page Russell
on October 7, 2015 at 1:22 pmAwesome to hear that acupuncture has helped you! I think it’s a great thing for people to try. It’s helped me a lot too.
Karli
on October 12, 2015 at 4:57 pmMy two year old daughter just developed this. It keeps her awake at night. Any tips on how to help her get good sleep? After reading comments here I will try adding baking soda to her nightly bath, keep the water cooler, limit soap. Then coconut oil before pajamas. Any other ideas? She is still learning to talk so it is hard to know what she needs.
Ariana Page Russell
on October 26, 2015 at 12:15 pmThose are excellent things to try (although I’ve never tried baking soda in the bath)! How’s it going? Is she feeling better?
Dee
on October 19, 2015 at 11:22 pmI take a daily zyrtec which has been life changing. I have terrible welts, itching, mine is quite severe. At its worst I would actually stop to vomit after walking half a mile to the market because my skirts brushing against my legs made the welts on my calves so horrible and itchy and uncomfortable. I’m still itchy every day, the area around my bra and my jeans on my calves are the worst but at least with a daily zyrtec I can sleep and walk around and function sort of like a person.. Who is red and itchy all the time. I hate this disease. It’s debilitating.
Jenny
on November 3, 2015 at 2:50 pmMy one year old was diagnosed with this today. We went in for allergy tests thinking he had a food allergy. Nope. I’m already researching different laundry detergents/dryer sheets. I’m a little on the fence about bath time. Would choosing a better soap be ok as opposed to eliminating soap altogether? I was debating about trying the cetaphil body wash. I know that the cetaphil lotion has been very effective in the past when we thought it was just eczema. As for the coconut oil, and guidance on using this on a baby? I’ve used it before when he had cradle cap but not all over the body.
Lastly – we’re definitely going to go through a diet change but it’s difficult to manage that when he is in daycare during the week. I’m not sure they would be able to follow the same regimen. Anyone have a child in daycare with this condition and how do you handle diet?
Ariana Page Russell
on November 17, 2015 at 10:59 pmHi Jenny, thanks for the note. Your poor little guy! It just blows my mind that dermatographia can affect babies like that! I’d say try washing his skin with coconut oil, and watch for any reaction. I’ve used it on my cousin’s baby and she absolutely loved it. Her skin was so soft and clean! Otherwise, try a soap that doesn’t have very many ingredients. In my experience, Cetaphil is too harsh–even though it’s supposed to be for sensitive skin, I can’t use it.
Can you pack a lunch for him for daycare, and make sure they don’t feed him anything else?
I hope that helps! Let us know how it goes!
Mary
on November 8, 2015 at 6:12 pmI ready many articles about dermatographia caused by leaky gut. I do believe it is an autoimmune disorder, if someone has a leaky gut substances are entering the bloodstream, in which the body attacks it creating histamine. Taking anti histamine are just treating the symptoms, we need to be concerned of why histamine is being created.
Ariana Page Russell
on November 17, 2015 at 10:54 pmI agree Mary! Antihistamines are just masking the problem, although I know the itching is so bad for some people, they have no choice. I just hope we can discover more about how to treat it without antihistamines! My question is though, if it’s caused by leaky gut syndrome, why are babies getting dermatographia?
Mary
on November 17, 2015 at 11:51 pmI have read about many babies and children that have autoimmune problems due to not having enough good bacteria in there stomach. For example, babies born threw a c-section are not exposed to there mothers vaginal bacteria or babies who are not breast fed or don’t get enough breast milk. Could also be that the mothers diet during pregnancy was not very good, possible had a bacteria imbalance. I remember a specific story about a 6 year old who had a terrible auto-immune disorder, so they changed his diet and withing a couple of months his symptoms went away. Something that has really helped me are beef broth and l-glutamine which is said to seal the gut, also to increase good bacteria I drink keifer.
David
on November 17, 2015 at 1:32 pmI started having dermatographia in my teens. For a while the itching was really a problem. Learning not to scratch was by far the best “natural” treatment for me.
Also covering skin with clothing definitely helps. I almost never have an issue with covered skin (having learned not to scratch). Thankfully I prefer jeans to shorts anyway and rarely have bad problems with my forearms.
Ariana Page Russell
on November 17, 2015 at 10:49 pmYes! Don’t scratch and it helps so much! It can be hard sometimes, but the more you mess with your skin/scratch it, the more it will be irritated and itch. Thanks David!
Diane
on December 9, 2015 at 7:24 amHello, I just developed this when becoming pregnant 8 weeks ago. I sadly lost the pregnancy, and was left with this skin disease. I am happy to find others and am terrified it will worsen. I also worry what it would advance to if I became pregnant again. I have an allergist appointment in 2 days, and could not stay off the Zyrtec as requested for testing. I am hoping they can do blood work, and I will continue on with elimination diets. Thank you for having this site where we can all come together.
Ariana Page Russell
on January 6, 2016 at 8:54 pmHi Diane,
I’m so sorry for your loss. I hope you find ways to ease the itch and can become pregnant again. If I were you, I wouldn’t worry about your condition getting worse–just focus on taking good care of yourself.
Let us know how it goes with your food experiments!
You could also try rubbing coconut oil on your skin if you get itchy. That’s safe for babies as well as adults. Good luck :+)
Greg
on December 15, 2015 at 3:44 pmI’ve just been diagnosed with this. It seems to have come about after a course of penicillin for a tooth infection. I’m leaning towards the cause being related to gut issues from the antibiotics. I really don’t like taking pills, so I’m trying to avoid the antihistamines and pop pro-biotics instead. That coupled with a modified diet focused on low histamine foods (which I’m sure will be the most difficult part).
Ariana Page Russell
on January 6, 2016 at 8:50 pmThat sounds like it will really help! Please let us know how it goes with your food and probiotics experiments. Good luck!
Greg
on April 19, 2016 at 11:23 amIt lasted for 3-4 weeks before it faded away completely. I was free of the issue within a month. I feel for all those long time sufferers. However just today I visited the Allergist to test for the penicillin as a culprit. He has told me that no, it was more likely caused by the infection rather than the penicillin. Take it with a grain of salt, but that was my experience. Needless to say my other allergy testing came back with a plethora of allergies I didn’t know I had (dust mites, cats, feathers, trees of all sorts, grass, ragweed etc). I’m still looking further into gut health to aid in my allergy issues.
Ariana
on May 13, 2016 at 6:25 pmHmmm interesting.. Dermatographia is so fascinating in how it’s very different for everyone! Thanks for sharing your story.
Gloria sky
on January 1, 2016 at 9:19 pmAt least we are not alone and NOT crazy. I acquired this curse 6 years ago. The first year with no relief and throwing out furniture and clothes. I took a claritin and for just a few mins I did not itch for the first time in a year. So I moved to zyrtec. 3-5 pills daily!!! And to make matters worse …or better, I am a nurse in dermatology. With access to the best doctors (for free) and multiple tests, 5 years later, I have become a zyrtec junkie. I keep them anywhere I may be and in every bag…until 1 month ago. I switched to cold showers at night and created a lotion made of all natural ingredients with my derm knowledge and rub that after shower. Since then I have dropped to one zyrtec every 4-5 days and I am continuing to improve and sleep through the night! I hope all of our nightmares end soon and I plan on trying the no sugar thing to see if it helps! I want to share my sav with anyone who needs it.
Angie
on January 2, 2016 at 12:45 pmI have had dermagraphitism for six years. Just recently I noticed that I haven’t been feeling itchy from any minor skin abrasions/pressure. Hopefully it doesn’t come back. I try my best to eat whole foods and natural beauty products. I had been managing with Claritin for years, one 10 mg tab a day, then one tab every three days, and now going on for a week at a time. Wishing the best for everyone. I suffered from this skin condition, and I hope that one day everyone is cured from it. Essentially your body is attacking its own protein, and can not recognize that it is doing this. So try to manage the symptoms as much as possible to prevent long term health problems.
Ariana Page Russell
on January 6, 2016 at 8:36 pmAwesome Angie! So glad to hear your condition is lessening. The same thing is happening to me, and I know it’s because I take such good care of myself. Happy New Year!
Ariana Page Russell
on January 6, 2016 at 8:49 pmYay Gloria! That’s great news! I think coconut oil works great as a moisturizer/anti-itch solution, but perhaps adding something else makes it more effective? Please share some of your ingredients if you’re so inclined. I’m so glad to hear it’s working for you!
Teresa
on January 7, 2016 at 11:42 pmMy 11-year old daughter has these symptoms! She is also anaphylactically allergic to tree nuts, which is also a mast cell disorder. Mango is in the pistachio and cashew family, so we have to avoid it.
She will scratch herself into raised welts without realizing it! I can lightly scratch her back and there is no flare up, but her own fingernails seem to create a problem. Her father said he sometimes gets welts from his own fingernails or hair. Any opinions or info on this?
We are on Zyrtec for seasonal allergies, so glad to know it’s helpful for this, too.
Interestingly, and related to the others who had reactions to penicillin, she reacted to amoxicillin around age 5 – with a hive reaction. Her father also has a penicillin allergy.
I’m very curious about how this is all related. As allergies continue to rise, I wonder if this condition is being triggered by the same things that are causing food allergies. My own theory is that its environmental.
Lastly, a tip that might help: I keep a bottle of aloe Vera gel in he fridge and when she starts getting a flare up, I rub it all over the affected area and it soothes the itch and also calms down the swelling right away.
Ariana Page Russell
on February 2, 2016 at 7:47 pmThanks Teresa! That’s a great idea to keep aloe in the fridge. I guess you could even do that with regular lotion too.
I’ve never heard about itching only being caused by the person’s own fingernails, but dermatographia is so weird and unique for everyone, I wouldn’t be surprised!
I agree, our environment is so polluted (and that includes pesticides and everything that’s getting into our food), I’m sure it’s causing allergies to get worse and worse. Our bodies can’t take all these toxins!
I also have a penicillin allergy, and I’m sure it’s connected somehow. In time I’m sure we’ll find out more about causes and triggers!
Marie
on January 15, 2016 at 9:27 amHi,
my name is Marie and I also have Urticaria/Dermographia since my beautiful daughter was Born 4 years ago.
I Do also have Hashimoto.
Somedays the itching is so bad, that I can scream our loud.
I dont want to take strong Antihistamins because they make me very Tired and I dont want to be tired all day Long because of my Little daughter.
What Antihistamins Do You take?
I’m also trying to reduce stress and eat healty and doing yoga.
I realised that in summertime when my skin is tanned, the itching is much better
I hope that one day I wake up and the itching is gone.
The writing doesnt disturb me at all, sometimes its funny, my beloved husband once said I could be a witch because of that
Greetings from Austria
Ariana Page Russell
on February 2, 2016 at 7:42 pmHi Marie, thanks for the note!
I do not take antihistamines (I never have), and choose to treat my dermatographia naturally with the things I’ve mentioned in this post. Give these a try and hopefully it will help! Let us know how it goes!
Elizabeth
on February 2, 2016 at 8:35 pmI take alegra because everything else has made me fall asleep 🙂
riche
on January 19, 2016 at 10:45 amHi! Ive been having this condition for almost 11 years now. I had never visited a doctor but im sure i have this Dermatographia. Recently, my itching worsens to the point where my both hands had already scratch all over my body! I n
otice what triggers to the itching is the cold temperature, like when im in anairconditioned room the itching and the scratching happens and i cant stop my self from scratchin my self. When i take my clothes off or take a bath early in the morning, itching happens. I even thought im allergic to the wind!.. Thank God i found this post. Will try this few steps and hope it will lessen the condition. Thanks a lot. God bless!
Ariana Page Russell
on February 2, 2016 at 7:36 pmThanks for the note! Funny, usually people say heat is what aggravates their dermatographia. Just goes to show how different it is for each of us!
Let us know how it goes when you try some of these suggestions!
B.N
on January 21, 2016 at 8:56 pmhi skin writers everywhere , I’ve been diagnosed with dermatographia one year ago , I prefer to call it skin writing since the name dermatographia seems so complicated and reminds me of geography that I totally hated at school , plus I also happen to be a writer in real life , which make it pretty sarcastic but on the funny side , I d like to think its a proof of my extended talents as a writer . when i first was diagnosed , the doctor ordered different blood tests and all came out good except the h pylori test which according to my dermatologist it might be connected to my dermatographia , so I took afterwards a horrible antibiotic triple therapy for 2 weeks hoping it will clear my dermartographia , but i didn’t see any improvement right away but few months later , symptoms began somehow to improve , before i used to take a antihistamine called xzyzal everynight ( which is great by the way cause it didn’t make me sleepy or drowsy like the others I tried before ) but with time i managed to take it only twice per week , i really don’t know if it was the h pylori treatment or something psychological cause i do believe that my dermatograpgia began after a period of stress and a supressed maybe emotional chock , and gradually I was getting better , I would take xzyzal once per week or every two weeks , but during that period as well , i was taking a magnesium pill everyday before I sleep and whenever i feel the itching coming back and it made it better ( magnesium is a natural ingredient that is known to calm the nerves) , and there was a time dermatographia almost cleared out until we started painting our house and my sinusitis came back and my dermatograhia as well and i had to go back to antihistamines so i figured somehow they are connected , i m allergic as well to scents and perfumes , and now after the painting is finished , and my sinus are healing , dermatographia is gradually getting better as well , and I am going to do a h pylori follow test again to see if the previous treatement has worked , i should have done it months ago but was too tired from doctors and tests and back to taking magnesium pills cause I noticed also symptoms returned when I stopped, I hope this was helpful
Ariana Page Russell
on February 2, 2016 at 7:25 pmThanks for all this information! I’ve been taking magnesium too–I think it’s helpful for a lot of things. Let us know if any new developments arise!
Evelyn’s Skin Story – Skintome
on January 29, 2016 at 9:56 am[…] all I know about dermatographia! In the meantime, you can find out more on my SkinTome post here. Please keep in touch, and thanks […]
How Dermatographia Can Make You A Model – Skintome
on January 29, 2016 at 10:04 am[…] ago. I shared my knowledge of managing dermatographia symptoms (which I wrote about previously on SkinTome), and we got to know each other a little bit. Turns out Denisa is an aspiring model. She shared […]
How Skin Writing Brings People Together – Skintome
on January 29, 2016 at 10:11 am[…] Thanks Jes! It takes an army of us to change the context of dermatographia (from an embarrassing condition into cool, unique skin), and you are showing everyone you’re proud of what your skin does that makes you different! Also, I realize some of us with dermatographia do not think it’s cool, because it’s extremely uncomfortable (never mind embarrassing), and actually hurts and itches to the point of drawing blood from scratching so much. I am so sorry for your pain. Please speak with your doctor about this, and seek other treatments if your antihistamines aren’t working (sometimes you need to change the dose and/or type). There are also natural treatments that I’ve found to be very helpful. I write about my experience here. […]
Skin Drawings Are Cool! 5 Ways to Prove It – Skintome
on January 29, 2016 at 10:15 am[…] If you would like tips for how to take care of the itchiness, and lessen your symptoms (while still being able to draw cool stuff on your skin), check out my post What to Do With the Itch: 6 Tips to Manage Dermatographia. […]
Haya Lakhani
on February 25, 2016 at 7:02 amI am fourteen. My skin swelled up when it was scratched or if I had a bruise. When it first happened I was freaked, seeing red, fat lines appearing on my hand and itching bad.
Slowly I got used to it, just thinking of it as a thing that just happened, not knowing that it happened with others too! I also sometimes drew on my hands.
Today I came across a picture on Tumblr of a hand with beautiful patterns drawn on it. The person who had uploaded it had explained the condition and what it was called. It came as a surprise, but then I searched and found all that was known about it. I came across your website while searching for communities regarding this beautiful yet strange condition.
Its makes me so happy to know that I am not alone and this is not a disorder, it is nothing to be ashamed of. it is art.
Thank You for creating this website, for photographing.
Ariana Page Russell
on March 3, 2016 at 11:54 amThank you Haya! Welcome to Skintome 🙂 You are definitely not alone… And yes, your skin is art. Happy drawing!!
Svana
on February 29, 2016 at 5:49 pmHi, do you think Bio oil would work?
Ariana Page Russell
on March 3, 2016 at 11:50 amIt’s worth a shot! Give it a try and let us know how it goes.
Lauren
on March 16, 2016 at 7:33 pmI was just told today from an allergist that I have dermatographia and idiopathic urticaria. I was told to increase my Zyrtec and hydroxyzine meds and now i’m going to start the injections of Xolair. I was hoping someone can ive me some information on this injection, I really rather be able to reduce my symptoms with a diet change and my anti-histamine. What steps should I take with my diet, should I avoid high histamine foods ?
Ariana
on March 30, 2016 at 5:25 pmHi Lauren,
Thanks for writing. I’d say try eliminating common triggers like sugar, alcohol, gluten, etc. If you really want to go for it, do a proper elimination diet and see what happens (you can find out more about that here). Just a warning: it takes about a month or two to do it properly.
Good luck, and let us know how it goes!
How Skin Writing Brings People Together – Skintome
on March 30, 2016 at 1:10 pm[…] Also, I realize some of us with dermatographia do not think it’s cool, because it’s extremely uncomfortable (never mind embarrassing), and actually hurts and itches to the point of drawing blood from scratching so much. I am so sorry for your pain. Please speak with your doctor about this, and seek other treatments if your antihistamines aren’t working (sometimes you need to change the dose and/or type). There are also natural treatments that I’ve found to be very helpful. I write about my experience here. […]
Don’t Try To Hide It! Aeessa’s Story – Skintome
on March 30, 2016 at 4:12 pm[…] able to make some dietary changes and it will significantly improve. I wrote about it on Skin Tome here. For me, antihistamines are not necessary because I’ve figured out how to manage my symptoms […]
Sammy
on April 7, 2016 at 10:05 pmHi Ariana,
I found out I had dermatographia my freshman year of high school (now I’m a senior) and for me I take an over-the-counter antihistamine daily. I can go a few days without it if I forget but then the itchiness comes back. With the antihistamine the itchiness is gone and my welts don’t happen randomly, but my skin is still very sensitive. I’m slowly coming to the conclusion that stress is one of my triggers, but there’s a lot more that cause irritation.
What brought me to your blog was a poem I had to write for my creative writing class. I wrote a response to your picture, Index, and I chose that because I connected to it. I had never thought of writing my name or drawing on my skin- the welts were just irritating and self-inducing it made me feel uncomfortable.. After writing my poem and doing some digging into your blog, my opinion on my dermatographia has changed, so thank you!
Ariana
on April 18, 2016 at 4:31 pmHi Sammy!
Thanks so much for the note! I’d love to read your poem if you feel like sharing. Feel free to email me arianapage @ gmail. com
And I hope you’ve been having fun doing some skin writing too ;+)
How Dermatographia Can Make You A Model - Skintome
on April 26, 2016 at 5:26 pm[…] ago. I shared my knowledge of managing dermatographia symptoms (which I wrote about previously on SkinTome), and we got to know each other a little bit. Turns out Denisa is an aspiring model. She shared […]
Rachel Gladstone
on May 24, 2016 at 7:07 pmthank you so much for having this website. I have developed this skin condition this year and it really sucks. I originally thought i was allergic to something directly. I’m already vegan ….ah now time to go sugar free!
Ariana
on June 2, 2016 at 11:53 amYou’re welcome Rachel! Let us know if eliminating sugar helps! If not, it could be something else and you might want to do an elimination diet. Good luck!
neri lopez
on July 6, 2016 at 12:18 amhi ariana! thanks for the tips. I have a sweet tooth so it could be one of the reasons that triggers the itch. I noticed that my skin gets irritated and gets really itchy when there’s a sudden change in temperature. Usually when I am outside then entering a cold room. Does it happens to you?
Ariana
on July 7, 2016 at 12:09 pmHi Neri! Thanks for the note. I don’t notice a difference when entering a cold room, but I’ll pay attention and see if it happens. I have a sweet tooth too so have to really watch myself :+)
Let us know how it goes if you try eliminating sugar!
Polly Foster
on August 25, 2016 at 11:19 amThank you for starting skin tome. I was just diagnosed a month ago. This has been going on my whole life, but it’s gotten worse in the last 20 years. I’m always taking tags out of my clothes and wool, I itch just looking at it. I have scares all over my arms. I work as a teacher and students and parents are always concerned that I’m contagious. Now I can say, No, it’s how my body reacts to histamines. I still trying to find the triggers, but at least I know what’s causing my itching all over.
Ariana
on August 28, 2016 at 12:18 pmHi Polly! Welcome to Skintome. Please let us know what you find! And hopefully once you spread the word about what’s really going on with your skin people won’t be concerned about you being contagious :+)
Lynn
on October 15, 2016 at 5:10 pmHi ARIANA,
Thank you so so much for writing!
Just found out today there’s a name for this, and that so many people have this?!!
I had this since my early 30s after two kids. Works, stress etc…. I took warm bath frequently to help reduce stress, I think the bath dried up my skin and made it worse. My condition is a lot better now, I am 45 now. I think the followings helped:
-water softener( got rid of harsh chemicals, so healthier skin, hard water :bad)
-reduce sugar consumption, honey worse for me,
– add lime or lemon to my meals( sour good and sweet bad for skin),
-seafood such as crabs, shrimps, and lobsters made it worse,
-add olive oils to foods help,(olive oils thin blood, hence circulation, hence good for skin, oldest women in France aged 122, credited olive oils to longivety.
-reduce stress,
-sleep more,
-ripe mangoes (mango ataulfo, sweet ones, it’s pack with lots of vitamin A and C and other nutrients, I glowed after eating them),
_ green tea or lots of water,
-clean, soft, cotton clothes,
– eat more varieties of veges,
– less baked or grilled foods, more steamed and boil methods,
– organic foods,
– I use Dove body wash and conditioner now . Before I used various brand which I think was harsh,
– I tried to shower with cooler water instead of very warm, and tried to make to shorter so my body oils will not be washed off too much, hence dried up skin
This is just my experience, hope it helps those who experience all that I suffered through, I never see any doctors and I am not professional. But I have less skin problem now and only once in a while it came back. Yay!
LYNN
on October 15, 2016 at 8:44 pmCorrection: I never see any doctor for this skin problem. I did see doctors when I gave birth to my daughter 17 years ago at a hospital and seen more doctors before that, on medications etc… Been lucky so far, and tried to live healthy lifestyle, did some research about longevity and lots of research about happiness and health.
Ariana
on June 3, 2018 at 3:23 pmThanks for all your input Lynn! I hope your skin is still doing well.
I’ve heard that it can disappear on its own as we age… so maybe there’s a little of that happening too?
Happiness and health are totally linked 😉
Weirdo
on October 12, 2016 at 7:40 amI’ve been with it since i was 13 and now i’m 17(4years). But i notice every winter or when i’m in a cold room or take cold shower(love it) it gets worse every time. But when my grandmother gives me a warm bag and puts it on my red itch it gets better and disappear faster than usual. This sounds opposite of what you told 🙁
Kevin
on October 20, 2016 at 1:32 pmI was just diagnosed with this condidtion by my dermatologist, who took what appeared to be a chop stick and drew a number on my back; it welted up very nicely, I even had him take a picture of it on my phone for me lol. I have been itching for over a year, ever water (any tempature) can induce itching, although not always. I even get itchy when I go for a run. IT SUCKS! My question is this; although I itch a lot and get definite red marks from where I itch, as well as skin flushing at times, I don’t usually get raised welts, or wheeling. Does anyone else just have this? I itch a ton though and anti-histamines have had little affect in elevating the itching. Other than the dermatologist who wrote a number on my back, which welted (but oddly, it didn’t itch), I have only noticed the occasional hive, and I stress the occasional, like 1 or 2 over the course of a year. I just seem to get red marks from where I am itching and where I scratch. I did ask the dermatologist about this and he said that some areas of the skin are a lot more sensitive. Does anyone itch on the bottoms of their feet?
Baun
on December 6, 2016 at 7:49 amHi all,
I have had this I irritating condition for 2 years now. My itching I still most severe at night after laying in bed long enough to where my body has calmed down enough that I start to feel an itch. Before long and it feels like I’m laying in a bed of fiberglass insulation. After 2 years of this I feel there is some truth to eliminating dairy and gluten from my diet. I have not totally committed to this elimination. It is encouraging to know that it is possible to find relief without antihistamines. I will check back soon.
Thanks again
Ariana
on December 15, 2016 at 4:21 pmThanks Baun! Let us know how it goes. FYI, it does take a few weeks of no gluten/dairy/other triggers to notice a difference. So be patient :+)
Jinson
on December 25, 2016 at 9:12 amI got this 30 days ago. Very irritating. I realize this issue after having a hair cut. My head started irritating and I scratch with my fingers. Then it goes itchy. Now the situation goes more worse. I cant walk barefoot. Because my foot turns itchy while pressing small stones. Same for my hands. I cant lift and rough items. It starts irritating. i don’t know whats going on. Not only foot and hand but the skin also turns red and itchy if a small scratch had made. Sometimes scratch happen while removing clothes. Thanks GOD i can wear inner-wears without any problem. I will comment here if I got cured in any way.
Jinson
on January 12, 2017 at 12:55 amHi, Me posted on Dec 25 about my dermatographia. Anyway the symptoms started showing decrease its intensity. The bumps after scratching get reduces. Still I get red marks and small bumps after scratching. Don’t know whether the previous situation arise again. I will definitely post my updates and medicine details here in next comment.
Ariana
on January 31, 2017 at 5:54 pmThanks for the update Jinson! Let us know how it goes.
Desiree
on January 15, 2017 at 2:46 amHello I was just diagnosed with this condition and am wondering if anybody else experiences the itchiness on the bottoms of their feet? When I take my shoes off or put them on no matter how carefully my feet swell causing severe discomfort. Has anyone else experienced this and if so what kind of things have you done that help?
Ariana
on January 31, 2017 at 5:51 pmHmm that’s strange. I’ve never experienced itchiness on the bottom of my feet, except if I’ve been scratched there (which doesn’t happen too often). Then I just wait it out. Have you tried changing your laundry detergent? I wonder if your socks are irritating your feet?
Cynon Tuff
on April 9, 2017 at 2:44 pmTotally. The bottoms of my feet itch badly sometimes after I get up from sleeping (briefly stirring up circulation in feet)and then come back to bed. This is when my histamines are up and medication levels low. Also my pubic hair follicles get super itchy after I shower when my levels are low. I think the base problem is: Histamine Intolerance. Please look this up! All the crazy itching that I scald in the shower for relief (or a hot compress) or use camphor/menthol type creme to cover and distract. Admittedly my dry skin problem in winter only aggravates this condition. Oddly, skin brushing (sisal fibers) seems to diffuse small localized areas of itch. Honestly, when its bad nothing works but drugs. Diet restrictions are a nightmare but so are the side effects of the drugs. SO MANY FOOD restrictions.
Trying desperately to taper off the Hydroxyzine. The more you take, the worse it gets. This drug has anticholinergic properties and other horrible potential side effects (cardiac and cognitive) May try ceterizine (zyrtec, etc.) as a replacement until I can completely get off the drugs to stop the itching. Many drugs (antidepressants, gastric, etc) also inhibit the enzyme DAO in stomach that breaks down histamine.
Morning
on January 17, 2017 at 2:58 pmI have this as well. I had gone to my dermatologist for allergy screening for general allergies and for a new situation where I would wake up with intense burning and itching on my feet and hands accompanied by a rash which would not quit until I too Benadryl. While waiting for the Dr, I must have scratched an itch on my back. When he came in about 20 min or so later to examine my back where he would be doing scratch tests he asked if I had itched. I said yes, when I first came in. He said I had a clear case of dermagraphia which would account for my night-time issues. he mentioned that the heat under the covers, or the covers themselves were likely causing the outbreak of dermagraphia. He recommended taking 2 citirizine (twice the package recommended dosage). he recommended taking them at night to help offset the drowsiness effect. The citirizine seems to really help in the double dose. After a week or so of taking them, i no longer noticed drowsiness during the day and my nighttime symptoms were greatly relieved. The diagnosis has been a relief since I was having having reactions to clothing rubbing, and so forth in addition to the nighttime issues i described. I was beginning to think I was losing my sanity!
Thanks for having this forum. It is good to know others with similar issues.
Morning
on January 17, 2017 at 3:03 pmI should also mention that for years, friends had commented on marks or my reaction when they had scratched my back when I could not reach an itch. They would comment that they were sorry, they did not mean to scratch so hard. They told me they had left welted lines where they scratched. I could not see what they were seeing and did not feel they were too rough but in hindsight, I realize it was the dermagraphia.
Ariana
on January 31, 2017 at 5:49 pmHello and welcome! Thanks for writing in :+)
Jinson
on February 10, 2017 at 6:54 am@desiree Hi, We both have the same condition. I also written above. I can’t walk barefoot in this condition. it start itching in my feet. Also I can’t lift something rough with my hands also. it also start irritating me. Dont know what to do. Any way you can take montelukast sodium and levocetirizine hydrochloride tablets. It will stop irritation on hands and foots. But skin remains same. I am going to see doc tomorrow. i will update all details here. (Take tablets only by asking your doctor). AferI stop having montelukast sodium and levocetirizine hydrochloride tablets, the condition come back again.
Tyler
on March 2, 2017 at 10:11 pmHello everybody my name is tyler and my ‘skin writing’ disease came out of nowhere my sophomore year of hs (now I am a jr in college) and it’s gotten progressively worse. I’ve always been an athlete and even played college hockey at my university. Up until now my breakouts have been tolerable but now it gets so bad that my face swells to the point where I can’t open my eyes -_- hot showers can also cause this intense face swelling. I use essential oils on my face and skin but nothing seems to help. I can’t even run a mile without turning into the elephant man and I used to run marathons no problem. Plz help
Ariana
on June 3, 2018 at 3:29 pmHi Tyler! Has your condition gotten better? Did you see the post I wrote about healing dermatographia naturally? http://skintome.arianapagerussell.com/how-i-almost-cured-my-dermatographia-the-all-natural-way/
Jinson
on March 11, 2017 at 7:19 amStill I have the situation.. Now more than 4 months.. Started on December 1 2016. Now its march. Dont know whats happening.. Now I cant live without tablets..
Ariana
on June 3, 2018 at 3:30 pmHi Jinson! Has your condition gotten better? Did you see the post I wrote about healing dermatographia naturally? http://skintome.arianapagerussell.com/how-i-almost-cured-my-dermatographia-the-all-natural-way/
Cynon Tuff
on April 9, 2017 at 2:48 pmBesides the welting and itching from the slightest of traumas, the bottoms of my feet can also itch badly sometimes (after I get up from sleeping, briefly stirr up circulation in feet, and then go back to bed. This is when my histamines are up and medication levels low. Also my pubic hair follicles get super itchy after I shower when my levels are low. I think the base problem is: Histamine Intolerance. Please look this up! All the crazy itching that I scald in the shower for relief (or a hot compress) or use camphor/menthol type creme to cover and distract. Admittedly my dry skin problem in winter only aggravates this condition. Oddly, skin brushing (sisal fibers) seems to diffuse small localized areas of itch. Honestly, when its bad nothing works but drugs. Diet restrictions are a nightmare but so are the side effects of the drugs. SO MANY FOOD restrictions.
Trying desperately to taper off the Hydroxyzine. The more you take, the worse it gets. This drug has anticholinergic properties and other horrible potential side effects (cardiac and cognitive) May try ceterizine (zyrtec, etc.) as a replacement until I can completely get off the drugs to stop the itching. Many drugs (antidepressants, gastric, etc) also inhibit the enzyme DAO in stomach that breaks down histamine.
Thanks, everybody.
Lisa
on April 12, 2017 at 9:50 amI have had this horrible condition for 8 days now. This is the second time in 4 years that it has reared its ugly head. The first time it came out of nowhere and lasted for 2 weeks.. This time again it comes out of the blue. It is much worse this time though. I have itching EVERYWHERE. My palms and feet itch on and off all day. My scalp feels like ants crawling all over it when I try to brush my hair or touch my head. Everywhere else gets welts and insane itching just from clothing touching it. I cant wear a bra and can only wear yoga type pants. My eyes itch but if I dare touch them, they swell and turn red. Basically I am miserable during the entire day because I am itching constantly from the irritation of my clothing. I went to an allergist yesterday for allergy testing and he said I have no allergies. I’m still trying to figure that one out because my skin welted up just from the touch of the test pricks. The doctor prescribed me a 6 day dose of steroids along with 2 zyrtec and 2 zantac daily. Honestly I am nervous to take any of them. I am afraid I will have a rebound effect and will feel even worse than I already do. I want to get in to a Naturopath and hopefully figure out what is going on inside my body. I am willing to do any diet that is needed. Actually I have been feeling so miserable that I haven’t eaten much in this last week and have lost 9 pounds. I am afraid to put anything in or on my body. Washing my face and taking a shower is a nightmare because of all the itching it causes. Its only been 8 days of this and I cant imagine dealing with this much longer. Do I have an extreme case or do most people itch insanely like this?
George
on May 17, 2017 at 5:25 pmHi Lisa your not the only one I’ve felt like that just this passed Sunday it’s was the worst I’ve ever felt. I am the same everytime I take a shower and scrub the welts come out my hands and feet get itchy also. Anyway i took some allertec and it seemed to help with the itchiness and welts, but I hate the fact I have to take those everyday. I really hope you can find a sloution.
Ariana
on June 3, 2018 at 3:31 pmHi Lisa! Has your condition gotten better? Did you see the post I wrote about healing dermatographia naturally? http://skintome.arianapagerussell.com/how-i-almost-cured-my-dermatographia-the-all-natural-way/
Baun
on April 15, 2017 at 10:49 pmHi All,
I posted a while back mentioning that I had this dermagraphia. I have been taking Zyrtec for 2.5 yrs now with some days not needing to take it but almost always have to take it every day and as of lately I have changed my eating habits a little. But there has been no change for two years.
I wanted to share something with you. I’m not sure if it is significant or not but I felt it was different. It was in March 2017 when I went for a birthday party at a hot spring where water is naturally heated in the earth and has minerals and so on. Many of you have heard of or been to one. The first day I swam for around 5-6 hours and swam for another 3 hours the next day. The next 4 days I didn’t take any antihistamine and I didn’t feel an itch or lose an ounce of sleep over those for days. I was wondering if it had went away for good kept wondering if it was coming back. Then it dawned on me that it may have been the hot springs water that made my skin feel better.
I will be returning to the hot springs this summer and will let you know if it helps again or if it was a coincidence!!!
Ariana
on June 3, 2018 at 3:31 pmAmazing! Thanks for sharing
Baun
on August 21, 2018 at 12:47 amHave you looked into eating foods that have anti histamines and foods that are low in histamine. I’m wondering if our bodies, having dermatographia,have something to do with histamine deficiancy. Our systems are not able to get rid of these histamines and our mast cells are just letting histamine out randomly and that our diet is the most responsible for this condition..
Neda
on April 28, 2017 at 9:16 pmI have severe dermatgraphia and the itching can be horrible at times. I have found that the following helps:
1. Use castile soaps for all your cleaning needs from body washes, laundry detergent, to house hold cleaners. Look on the internet for receipies. There are tons. I even brush my teeth with Castile soap.
2. Try your best to buy only 100 percent cotton clothing. I found this really helps.
3 try eating foods with natural probiotics like saurcroight or kimchi or kombucha.
4. Eat a lot of turmeric. Fresh or dried.
These are the things I have done to try to get some relief. And I have found that each item clearly helps.
Ariana
on May 5, 2017 at 6:02 pmThank you for sharing! Those are great suggestions :+)
Dermatographia
on May 4, 2017 at 6:58 amI have dermatographia and have come to live with it, i prefer to call it a feature of myself now and not a fault!
Ariana
on May 5, 2017 at 6:02 pmRight on! :+)
George
on May 17, 2017 at 5:11 pmHi ariana i think I have this skin disease ( if that’s what you want to call it) it hasnt been to long since ive noticed my dermatographia only a about 1month i would say. Anyway i noticed this itchiness one day and thought it would go away but unfortunately it didn’t. So it got worse and noticed my skin was getting welts and really sensitive I got a bit worried only because I’ve never had skin issues. Just the other day I was going crazy my whole body was itching and those welts came out didn’t know what to do but I’m just hoping I don’t have this too long because it’s the worst feeling ever. I did notice taking allertec has helped with the itching but I hate the fact that I have to take pills everyday. I wish I can find out what triggered I did go to a dermatologist but they just told me to take those pills.
Ariana
on June 3, 2018 at 3:33 pmHi George! Has your condition gotten better? Did you see the post I wrote about healing dermatographia naturally? http://skintome.arianapagerussell.com/how-i-almost-cured-my-dermatographia-the-all-natural-way/
Also, I prefer to call dermatographia a skin condition, not a skin disease–keep a positive spin on it 🙂
Frances
on June 29, 2017 at 8:13 amHi Ariana, my 16 year old daughter has this. She was diagnosed about two years ago after drug testing for a penicillin allergy. She has taken Zrytec which caused a huge amount of weight gain. She now takes Allegra daily. She also takes Benedryl when her itching is really bad. A week ago, she was bitten by a ton of bugs and last night her hives were the worst they have ever been! They were all over her body and her itching was out of control. She has taken Benedryl which makes her so tired. This morning the hives were gone from her torso, but she had some on her face and legs. She hates this condition and hates having to take meds. Could all of the bugs bites have made her hives get so out of control? What can we do? All the doctors say is to take antihistamines. I feel so bad for her. Thank you!
Ariana
on June 3, 2018 at 3:34 pmHi Frances! How is your daughter doing? Has her condition gotten better? Did you see the post I wrote about healing dermatographia naturally? http://skintome.arianapagerussell.com/how-i-almost-cured-my-dermatographia-the-all-natural-way/
I’m not sure about the bug bites. I’ve never heard of that before but it could be connected! Dermatographia is so weird
Sara T.
on July 7, 2017 at 11:01 pmI can’t believe there’s a whole online community for this! I’ve been suffering for five years now. I have no idea what brought it on. I was 28 years old when it started out of the blue. My feet swelled up so bad after walking around one day, I had a course of prednisone and was out of work for a few days. I’ve had the condition to varying degrees ever since… it’s been really bad and disruptive again lately. Thanks for shining a light on this so people know they are not alone. I have found, over the years, Zyrtec is the best choice for relief, although it doesn’t work perfectly. Allegra and benadryl don’t seem to do the trick. I noticed another medical person here mentioning they have problems wearing the gloves, and I’m also in that boat… seems like the friction of putting them on and pulling them off is enough to make my hands and wrists (even fingers, sometimes) welt up with itching and hives. It doesn’t help that I’m SO white, so all my marks are super bright. Everyone mentions it.
I’ve too been wondering if this is some autoimmune condition. When it started, my IGE was high and the prednisone I took for 10 days really helped. Since it’s flared up so badly again lately, I’m going to ask my doctor to do allergy tests to find possible sources that may be making it worse. It’s really just so, so irritating. I’m burning and itching all over as I write this… that’s why I was google searching and came across this site! 😛
Ariana
on June 3, 2018 at 3:35 pmHi Sara, welcome to Skintome! Has your condition gotten better? Did you see the post I wrote about healing dermatographia naturally? http://skintome.arianapagerussell.com/how-i-almost-cured-my-dermatographia-the-all-natural-way/
Lisa lodi
on August 23, 2017 at 6:38 amLisa lodi,
I’m so glad I came upon your blog I wish I had found it when I found out I have dermotographia about 5 yrs ago it started for me (the itching and redness ) around my ankles and wrists then gradually around my body I had been taking Zyrtec which worked for me I didn’t know I had it but this summer it feels like I have little fleas or bugs on my skin I feel the Zyrtec is not working anymore which I figured that this would happpen I have been thinking about eliminating foods for awhile starting with the gluten first is this the way I should go about it or just eliminate gluten, dairy & sugar all at once? I have been using clear free, perfume free detergents for awhile I try to buy non gmo’s as much as possible as well as organic foods, does anyone have extremely dry skin with this condition I have to lotion up all the time especially in winter, and I wonder if d.g. Is the cause of my rosacia does anyone else have these combos? Also my body temp seems to be on the very hot side I just start sweating for. No reason I was in my mid fifties when I got this im turning 58 soon as people have said this slows down when you get older I can only pray this helps me too, my family and friends don’t get it that I constantly scratch.
Ariana
on June 3, 2018 at 3:36 pmHi Lisa! Has your condition gotten better? Did you see the post I wrote about healing dermatographia naturally? http://skintome.arianapagerussell.com/how-i-almost-cured-my-dermatographia-the-all-natural-way/
I also have rosacea–not sure if they’re connected though. I hope you’re feeling better!
Zoe
on September 21, 2017 at 11:15 pmHello! I’ve had bad itching since I was around 18yrs old. Originally from the UK I was prescribed Zyrtec and was advised it would probably go away after a few years. Well it didn’t. It got worse that even the water from the shower would leave marks and blotches all over my body. Initially it was just my hands and the tops of my feet but now it’s all over. I’m now 42 and live in NZ. I have had an allergy test. Dust mites but that’s it. No doctor has ever given it a name but then I saw it pop up on a Facebook page and I was like…….wow! That’s me!! Fortunately I get my antihistamines on prescription so it’s cheaper. I a day keeps it relatively level however some days I’l still have ears or eyes itching a bit. As ran out of meds the last few days I’ve looked like I have nits! My head is itching, back, belly, hands, neck, you name it. Even the pits and the more delicate areas…….ladies………..Had my Zyrtec at 2pm and hasn’t caught up with it yet. Took my t-shirt off earlier and have such dry skin my navy t-shirt looked ick. My face is dry but combo skin means if I moisturise I’ll get spotty and cream on my dry legs makes me itch too. Sob…………..It’s sucky isn’t it…………Anyway, wanted to share….xxx
Ariana
on June 3, 2018 at 3:37 pmThanks for sharing Zoe!
Rc
on November 10, 2017 at 5:06 pmI just recently had dermatographia and its getting worse everyday there would come a time that it would wake me up in the middle of the night because i can’t stop scratching my skin. Or sometimes it a rash would just appear then if i tried scratching it would get worse and it sometimes it would appear on my back, arms, legs , arms and would disappear after an hour . I am just worried will this disappear or will this be with me until i grow old? Some say its stress at work because i just started working at a company and work load is like crazy.first indications of it is like it would get very hot on an area then a rash would appear then when i scratch it , it would spread. Whats wrong with it is it normal for dermatographia? I will try to follow your tips. Please if anybody have comments or tips tell me also
Ariana
on June 3, 2018 at 3:38 pmHi RC,
Has your condition gotten better? Did you see the post I wrote about healing dermatographia naturally? http://skintome.arianapagerussell.com/how-i-almost-cured-my-dermatographia-the-all-natural-way/
Stress will definitely make it worse!
Andrew
on November 26, 2017 at 8:46 pmIve been suffering in this condition for years and it is getting worse…there are moments that I cant stop scratching my skin until it bleeds..i need help
Ariana
on January 22, 2018 at 1:21 pmHi Andrew! Have you seen a doctor? That’s what I suggest. Also, take a look at my recent post about healing dermatographia naturally. I hope you feel better!
Leah
on January 12, 2018 at 3:24 pmOh My GOSH!!!!!!! I am so overwhelmed right now I could cry!! For the last year or so I have be so incredibly itchy!! I cant even begin to explain it. When I scratch I get these bumps and welts and it spreads and intensifies! I have tried changing my detergent, changing and constantly tracking my diet, having people come check my house for infestations of some kind, etc. Nothing has worked. I was starting to worry the constant itching was all in my head and I was going crazy! I stumbled upon this post today and it all makes so much sense! I have always had sensitive skin, but this past year it has been really dry an irritated. I have never heard of Dermatographia before. After reading this, I did a quick google search and I AM BLOWN AWAY!!! While its only been about an hour now that I’ve been researching it, every single thing I’m reading makes so much sense! I even tried writing a word on my arm and sure enough, it looks exactly like the pictures. I am so unbelievably relieved to have found what is most likely the answer to all of my stress this past year!!! I could literally cry right now!! Obviously, its time to see a dermatologist and not just a family practitioner to get an official diagnosis. But some kind of relief may soon be in sight!!!!!!
Ariana
on January 22, 2018 at 12:59 pmYay that’s great news! I’m so glad you found us :+)
Welcome to Skintome!
Leah
on January 25, 2018 at 2:29 pmThank you! I ended up making an appt with a Dermatologist the very next day and sure enough, I was right! We discussed all the medications and suggested medical treatments. I got the prescriptions filled but decided to hold off for now. I wanted to try some of the products and natural options you and others have mentioned here before moving forward with medications. I have already seen tremendous improvements!! I have even been able to identify some triggers! I am so thankful to have found this blog. As silly as it may sound, it has actually changed the quality of my life. This was the smoking gun that led to the answers I needed! Had I not stumbled across this page, I may have never learned about Dermatographia and began to research it on my own. Or I would have thrown away thousands of dollars searching for an answer from doctors. So thank you for bringing these people together to talk about a condition that most have never heard of. You have definitely made an impact on my life. BIG THANK YOU FROM TEXAS!!!!
Ariana
on June 3, 2018 at 3:38 pmWow thank you Leah! I hope you’re still doing well. I’m so glad I could help 🙂
JANET
on January 29, 2018 at 11:57 pmHi I am a newbie to this condition by 2.5 weeks, and oh dear I cant wear my bras or knicker anymore or those that are tighter, everyday it seems to find one area to flair up last night it was my back and tonight its my arm, I am taking antihistimines but I have been taking them since oct because of a severe sinus infection that tooks a longtime to clearup. Also my hubby had a small stroke so was on high alert for sometime as one would be. I have found the homeopathic gel COMBORDORUM, is very helpful, even when its extremely itchy Im afraid to scratch so I put a cloth over it and rub lightly, but a couple of occassions I have had to just scratch and it felt better except for the new raised itching areas, oh dear evil cycle…I am gluten intolerant, have low thyroid…so onready your article and others it looks like I in the firing line for it lol thank you for your article 🙂
Ariana
on June 3, 2018 at 3:39 pmThanks Janet! I hope you’re feeling better!
MaryC
on February 4, 2018 at 8:49 amI TOO HAVE HASHIMOTO’S! It started when I went to an allergist for the derma urticaria. He gave me Zyrtec, which worked great, but I wanted to know what was causing it and stop that, but he said it was a lifetime of itching. That didn’t work for me, so I asked again what could be causing it. He spit out a bunch of things and his final statement was “It could be related to your thyroid, and you could see an endocrinologist, but it would be a waste of your money.” Needless to say that I’ve never been back to that guy and immediately called an endocrinologist because my mom and cousins had thyroid cancer. That’s how I found out I had Hashi’s. And guess what — I got rid of the derma urticaria once I started taking thyroid meds. Have been on it ever since, but when I do stop the meds, the urticaria comes back.
I STILL haven’t found out what the actual cause is, but I hope this helps someone else out there
Ariana
on June 3, 2018 at 3:41 pmWow amazing that the Synthroid helped! Thanks for sharing. I’ll continue to urge people to get their thyroid checked! Have you heard of Dr Izabella Wentz? She has great tips for taking care of Hashi’s.
Neheli
on March 10, 2018 at 11:55 amHi
I have dermatographia for 15 years and now I am30.I am’nt itchy but i have red line in my skin with every touch i use antihistamin and it makes my symptone more red.please help me what can i do?
Ariana
on June 3, 2018 at 3:41 pmHi! Check out the post I wrote about healing dermatographia naturally, hopefully it will help! http://skintome.arianapagerussell.com/how-i-almost-cured-my-dermatographia-the-all-natural-way/
Deb
on March 26, 2018 at 12:53 amDeb,
I am so glad I found this site! I am 60 and just started itching about a month ago. I noticed the welts and could not find any information to explain what was going on. I am a stressed and anxious person. My most intense itching happens in the evening on my feet. I can barely stand it. I have found that yoga breathing helps. I also apply and anxiety blend of essential oils to the bottom of my feet, or on the welts, and on my wrists. I deeply breath in the scent of the oils and soon I can relax. The oils really help.
Leah
on March 27, 2018 at 6:58 amItching on my feet is how mine started too. On the tops of my feet. Some days they would itch so bad, I would literally scratch until they were bleeding! That was a little over a year ago for me (Ironically when I started dating my still current boyfriend). Now I itch all over, but don’t let it get to that point. I’ve read everyone’s triggers are different, but I have noticed mine seem to stem from stress as well. I would be interested to know which essential oils you are having success with. I am not a big fan of medicine and prefer to treat things naturally if I can. I have a medicated ointment prescribed by a dermatologist, but I try to only use it if I can’t get the itching to a tolerable level. I’m 29 years old and still hopeful that this is just a season in my life, but from what I have read it will only continue to get worse. I would love to hear what you are having success with!
Deb
on March 27, 2018 at 11:56 pmThe anxiety blend that I use contains: orange, lavender, clary sage, geranium, veiveria and chamomile Roman. I found it at a health food store. The brand is Wyndmere, Anxiety Release Synergistic Blend of 100% pure essential oils. I use it even when I am not itching. It is my new perfume
Ariana
on June 3, 2018 at 3:42 pmI love essential oils! Thanks for sharing. Breathing helps me too!
Rebecca Violette
on April 25, 2018 at 11:55 amI’ve always had intermittent dermatographia, but I recently got it and it has been 5 weeks straight. When I wipe my vagina even. WOW. It’s unbearably painful and itchy. Spreads like wildfire. Feels like stinging all over. Living on benadryl. Finished antibiotics for flu and UTI just recently and a new puppy. Ive never had issues with either, so I’m not sure those are the culprits. I have no idea what the triggers are. Puzzling for sure. Xoxo
Ariana
on June 3, 2018 at 3:43 pmHi Rebecca! Did you see the post I wrote about healing dermatographia naturally? http://skintome.arianapagerussell.com/how-i-almost-cured-my-dermatographia-the-all-natural-way/
You might find something helpful in there 🙂
Ivy
on May 29, 2018 at 3:15 pmAfter seeing several doctors on this issue who had no answers but to put me on different mediciations I decided to try an ND. According to him, the main reasons for dermotography are:
1. stress (number 1 cause)
2. food reactions
3. metabolism issues (mainly to oils and fats)
4. toxicity (can be from allergy shots or other medications)
5. lack of water along with 1 through 4
6. allergies to medications (most common one being birth control)
For me the cause was a high level of histamine in my body, likely due to seasonal allergy shots I received a few months prior along with the fact that it’s allergy season here in Ontario.
I’ve since started an anti histamine diet and temporarily eliminated meat so the body can try to recover. I’ve already noticed my reactions improving to a point where the rashes disappear in a minute instead of 5-10 minutes. Since there is no quick way to eliminate histamine from the body, I’m hoping that by following the diet the symptoms will continue to improve as the histamine disappears from the body. I won’t be getting seasonal allergy shots next year as it would be easier to deal with allergies than Dermatograpy.
All the best
Ariana
on June 3, 2018 at 3:44 pmThanks for sharing Ivy! Did you see the post I wrote about healing dermatographia naturally? http://skintome.arianapagerussell.com/how-i-almost-cured-my-dermatographia-the-all-natural-way/
I talk about some of the same stuff you mentioned 🙂
Shae
on July 28, 2018 at 6:36 pmWow, I am 33 years old and have had this since I was in 4th grade… I’d just chalked it up to something weird that just happens to me. At the time the doctors didn’t know. I developed a form of eczema when I was 20, so I’m CONSTANTLY itchy!! Lord, when I take my pants off at the end of the day I scratch so long and hard that it takes an hours for the welts to go away I almost forget I have it until I meet someone new and they freak out when they see it. I was scratching my arm in a staff meeting the other day and my coworker tapped me on the shoulder and asked if I needed to go to the hospital I should have said yes just to get out of the meeting.
Paula
on November 19, 2018 at 12:54 pmOMG you sound like me!! I have eczema too and I’ve heard that dermatographia enhances the itchiness. I sometimes go to the bathroom at work, just so that I can pull my pants down and scratch my legs!! It’s so frustrating to have this skin condition.
Joy
on February 3, 2019 at 7:18 amI am so glad I found this website and thank you all for your stories. I have spent the morning getting ideas from all of you. I have never met another person with this problem and have been questioned all my life about “What happened to you?” so this is amazing to find other people with this problem! (although I am so very sorry that you do) I had eczema when I was young, from about 5 until 11 on the back of both legs in a circular pattern. When that disappeared, I thought I had it made, but this is so much worse. It’s 20 years later and my itchiness has gotten much, much worse. I am taking about 3-4 benadryl a day. I have cut down to only drinking water (and sometimes fresh juice) This month I have decided to cut out all processed food, but I can’t stop dairy (I love cheese too much) Has anyone had quick success? Or use an antihistamine that is less drowsy than benadryl? I am tired all day and the non-drowsy makes me a little jumpy when I take 4 a day.
Tika S
on June 25, 2019 at 12:18 amYou know those days when you try something new to calm the itching and you convince yourself that it works. Then a minute later you get itchy again worse than before. But Cetaphil mixed with Cortizone and Shea butter in the mornings help.
Cecile
on August 26, 2019 at 3:27 pmI’m so glad to find this page. Recently diagnosed with Dermatographia and been taking fexofinadine.. i think it was triggered by extreme heat after our holiday. I get welts from simple rubbing and even using cotton pads when i clean my face. I manage the itching using dermol wash and constantly moisturising my skin. I stopped going to the gym, I’m anxious that heat and sweat will not do my any good as I sweat a lot. Did anyone have this challenge but managed it? Can you share please?
Will try the coconut oil as moisturiser sounds nice than clinical non perfumed one I’m using.
Thanks a lot
Ariana
on October 6, 2019 at 3:43 pmWelcome to Skintome! 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. Also, on my Dermatographia page I suggest products that work well for sensitive skin.
Not sure about the sweating thing but my guess is that once you get the dermatographia healing the rest will fall into place :=)
crew brooks
on February 26, 2020 at 10:16 pmive had this for 3 years and I absolutely hate it. its so annoying and embarrassing. I wish there was a cure bc no matter how much it costs id buy it.
Sam
on May 11, 2020 at 9:57 pmDoes anyone have the version of this where after you get scratched your skins raises up, turns red, itches and even burns? I read that its slightly more rare to have the burning sensation, which I have! Yipee! Haha
Ariana
on July 12, 2020 at 7:57 pmI get a warm feeling… my skin definitely gets hot but doesn’t feel like a burn.