As the seasons change in Texas, so do the demands on our skin. Cooler, drier weather often means more people are dealing with dry, itchy skin — a common malady that's usually harmless.
But sometimes itchiness that lingers or appears without an obvious cause can signal something more serious. In some cases, itchy skin can be a sign of skin cancer.
"In many cases, it's something minor," says Dr. Jennifer Maender, a dermatologist at Houston Methodist. "But if it is skin cancer, catching it early makes a big difference."
Is itching a common symptom of skin cancer?
Itching is a common feature of some types of skin cancer. Research shows that about 45% of squamous cell carcinomas cause uncomfortable itching. Basal cell carcinoma and melanoma can also cause itchiness.
"While many people first notice skin cancer because of how it looks, sensation changes such as itching, pain or tingling can also be important clues," Dr. Maender says.
When is itching worth a trip to the doctor?
A fleeting itch isn't usually anything to worry about. But Dr. Maender notes that itching that lasts four to six weeks without improvement should be checked out.
If a persistent itchy spot on your skin also looks unusual — it has changed shape or color, or isn't healing — it's worth getting evaluated. Itchy patches often are linked to visible changes, such as redness, scaliness or inflammation. That's also true for skin cancers.
"If a basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma or melanoma is itchy, you'll often notice redness or irritation around the lesion," says Dr. Maender. "That's because the immune system is reacting to abnormal cells in the area."
If itching is ongoing, especially if it's accompanied by other symptoms such as fatigue, unexplained weight loss or fever, it's best to see a doctor. Certain internal cancers can trigger systemic, all-over itching:
- Lymphoma is one of the most common cancers to present with widespread itching, usually without a rash.
- Liver or bile duct cancers can increase bilirubin levels in the body, leading to itchiness and sometimes jaundice (yellowing of the skin).
- Pancreatic cancer that blocks the bile duct can cause similar symptoms.
- Inflammatory breast cancer can also present with a rash or itchiness on the breast.
"Kidney disease can also be a culprit," Dr. Maender says. "While these cases are less common, they're another reason persistent itching should never be ignored."
(Related: Find Cancer Early: 5 Cancer Screenings You Should Know)
What are some other causes of itchy skin this time of year in Texas?
Most of the time, itchy skin is not related to cancer. Common causes of itchy skin include:
- Seasonal skin dryness, particularly during the winter
- Seasonal allergies
- Eczema
- Psoriasis
"Many people develop drier, itchier skin as the weather cools," Dr. Maender says. "Sometimes getting relief is as simple as switching to a fragrance-free moisturizer formulated for sensitive skin."
(Related: Sensitive Skin: Symptoms, Common Triggers & How It's Treated)
Can over-the-counter products help relieve the need to scratch?
One bit of good news: Scratching won't cause skin cancer cells to spread or grow faster.
"The main risk is that scratching can break the skin and lead to infection," says Dr. Maender. "That's because the skin is often more fragile, making it easier to injure."
Several safe, effective products can calm the itch and protect skin. Look for these options on the label:
- Pramoxine: This non-steroidal, anti-itch ingredient, found in certain itch relief creams or lotions, is safe for daily use.
- Colloidal oatmeal: This natural itch relief is found in many moisturizers labeled for eczema or dry skin.
"These are excellent over-the-counter choices, especially for older adults who often develop drier, itchier skin," notes Dr. Maender.
If over-the-counter relief isn't helping, or if you notice any other concerning symptoms, it's time to talk to your doctor about that annoying itch.
"Don't ignore what your skin is telling you," Dr. Maender says. "When something looks or feels off, it's best to get it checked."
