The constant itch of macular amyloidosis can wear you down, but relief might be closer than you think. For many people, soothing itchy skin is often the top priority when searching for macular amyloidosis treatments. Although many therapies for this rare skin condition are available by prescription, some over-the-counter products (OTC) may help ease the itch.

Before trying OTC products to treat your macular amyloidosis symptoms, make sure to get medical advice from a dermatologist or other healthcare professional.

What Is Macular Amyloidosis?

Amyloidosis is a rare disease that occurs when amyloids (a type of protein) accumulate in tissues and organs. These amyloid deposits can develop throughout the body but often affect the heart, kidneys, liver, and spleen. When amyloid buildup mainly affects the skin, it’s called primary localized cutaneous amyloidosis (PLCA). There are three main types of PLCA:

• Macular amyloidosis
• Lichen amyloidosis (also called papular amyloidosis)
• Nodular amyloidosis

Macular amyloidosis is often found on the upper back or arms. The affected skin may look darker than the surrounding area and could be thickened or rippled. On some skin tones, the patch may appear grayish brown or brown. The primary symptom is usually pruritus (intense itching). It’s usually diagnosed with a skin biopsy.

There’s no one-size-fits-all treatment for macular amyloidosis, so it’s important to work with a dermatology specialist who understands the condition well. With their help, you may need to try prescription therapies like:

• Corticosteroid (steroid) shots
• Topical calcineurin inhibitors (medicines that suppress the immune system, which reduces inflammation and relieves itchy skin)
• Phototherapy (light therapy)
• Laser therapy

Your dermatologist may also suggest OTC products to help soothe your itchy skin:

• Corticosteroid cream
• Capsaicin cream
• Menthol cream
• Emollient creams
• Dimethyl sulfoxide
• Oral antihistamines

Over-the-Counter Products for Macular Amyloidosis

Many OTC products are marketed for itch relief, but you may need to try a few to find one that works for you. A best practice when trying a new skin care product is to test it on a small patch of skin for several days and watch for side effects. If your skin becomes itchy, red, or swollen, stop using the product and ask your healthcare provider for the next steps.

Corticosteroid Cream

Topical corticosteroid creams are used to treat skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. They’re also used for mosquito bites and work by reducing inflammation. Topical corticosteroid products are available in different strengths, with stronger versions requiring a prescription.

A small study in Switzerland found that stronger corticosteroids combined with light therapy may work better at treating the itch and skin lesions caused by cutaneous amyloidosis. But even medium- and low-strength steroids helped some people in the study feel relief.

If you and your doctor decide that OTC corticosteroid creams are safe for you, look for products that contain hydrocortisone. Common brand names include Ala-Cort, Cortizone-10, Dermacort, and Texacort. If OTC creams don’t help enough, your doctor might prescribe a stronger corticosteroid cream to better manage the itch.

Capsaicin Cream

Capsaicin comes from chili peppers. When made into a cream, gel, ointment, or other topical solution, capsaicin can help relieve minor aches and pains. Capsaicin cream may also work well to ease the itch caused by macular amyloidosis if you use it regularly for a few weeks.

Capsaicin products can cause burning, itching, and, in some cases, blistering. Do not apply capsaicin products to skin that is cut or open. After handling capsaicin, wash your hands before touching your eyes, nose, or mouth to avoid burning and irritation to those sensitive areas. Brand names for OTC capsaicin creams include Capsagel, Capsin, Icy Hot, and Zostrix.

Menthol Cream

Menthol is found in peppermint plants. It’s used in products like cosmetics, toothpaste, and some topical treatments for insect bites. When added to creams, lotions, gels, and other products applied to the skin, it can relieve pain and provide a cooling sensation. Some menthol creams can help ease the itching caused by macular amyloidosis. Brand names for OTC menthol creams include Bengay, Biofreeze, Tiger Balm, and Salonpas.

Emollient Creams

Moisturizing creams with emollients — ingredients that can soften and smooth the skin — can ease itching and dryness. These products are often used for eczema and other skin conditions that cause itchy, dry skin. There are two main types of emollients: occlusives and humectants. Occlusives form a protective layer on your skin to lock in moisture. They often feel thick and greasy. Humectants add moisture by attracting water and holding it in the top layer of skin. Using an emollient cream regularly may help protect your skin barrier and make it feel more comfortable.

When searching for OTC moisturizers, look for the word “emollient” on the label. You can also review the ingredient list to look for occlusives (mineral oil, petroleum jelly, lanolin) and humectants (hyaluronic acid, glycerin, propylene glycol). Some common brands include Aquaphor, CeraVe, Eucerin, and Vanicream. You may find that keeping emollient products in the refrigerator makes them feel extra soothing when you apply them to your skin.

Dimethyl Sulfoxide Cream

Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is a chemical solvent produced when wood is milled to make paper. It’s a clear liquid that can have a faint garlicky odor. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved DMSO (Rimso-50) for treating a chronic bladder condition called interstitial cystitis. Healthcare providers sometimes also prescribe it for arthritis, inflammation, pain, and other medical issues, even though it isn’t FDA-approved for those health concerns.

In one small clinical trial, researchers found that a 50 percent DMSO solution reduced itchiness and pigmentation caused by macular amyloidosis. However, more research is needed. Talk to your doctor before using OTC DMSO creams and gels.

Oral Antihistamines

Antihistamine medications you take orally (by mouth) may help ease itching caused by macular amyloidosis. You can find them in the allergy section of your local drugstore. Ingredients to look for include chlorpheniramine and diphenhydramine. Some antihistamines cause drowsiness, so read the label before taking them, especially if you plan to drive or need to be alert.

If you’re still itching after trying OTC products, schedule a follow-up appointment with your healthcare provider to discuss other treatment options. If your doctor runs out of options, seek a second opinion.

At-Home Remedies for Itchy Skin

In addition to using OTC products, you can take other steps at home to help with your itchy skin.

• Try not to scratch or rub your skin, as that can worsen symptoms.
• Wear mittens or gloves to avoid scratching.
• Use moisturizers that help keep your skin hydrated.
• Avoid clothing made with wool and other scratchy materials.
• Use moisturizing soaps rather than soaps that dry out your skin.
• Apply a cool, damp washcloth to the affected areas.
• Keep the temperature in your bedroom cool at night.

If OTC products aren’t helping, talk with your doctor about other treatment options. With the right approach, many people living with macular amyloidosis find ways to manage itching and protect their skin. Everyone’s skin is different, so it may take some trial and error to find what works best for you.

Talk With Others Who Understand

MyAmyloidosisTeam is the social media network for people with amyloidosis and their loved ones. Here, more than 2,700 members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their experiences with others who understand life with amyloidosis.

Have you tried over-the-counter creams for macular amyloidosis? Which products help you the most? Leave a comment below, or start a conversation by posting on your Activities page.