Some people get itchy, uncomfortable hives after a shower. If you have chronic hives, this can happen often. “Chronic” means “ongoing” or “long-lasting.” Chronic hives, also called chronic urticaria, show up as raised bumps or patches of discolored skin. They can last for weeks or even months.

This article explores why hives might appear after showering, what types of chronic hives are involved, and how you can prevent and treat these flare-ups.

What Are Chronic Hives?

Chronic hives, also called chronic urticaria, is a condition in which hives appear regularly for six weeks or longer. These hives can be itchy, swollen, and uncomfortable. There are two main types of chronic hives:

• Chronic spontaneous urticaria — Also called chronic idiopathic urticaria, these hives appear without a known cause.
• Chronic inducible urticaria — These hives are triggered by specific factors like scratching the skin, which is called dermographism. Other triggers include sunlight, pressure, water, and hot or cold temperatures.

Both types of hives can affect people of all ages and skin colors. Depending on your skin tone, hives may appear to be purple, red, or the same color as your skin.

Why Do Hives Happen After Showering?

Hives after showering are usually linked to chronic inducible urticaria because they’re triggered by physical factors. Below are a few common causes of these hives.

1. Cholinergic Urticaria

This type of chronic hives is triggered by an increase in body temperature, such as during a hot shower, exercise, or stress. When the body gets hot, it releases a chemical called acetylcholine, which can affect immune cells in the skin and cause hives to appear. These hives are usually small and show up on the face, arms, and upper chest within minutes.

Most of the time, hives from cholinergic urticaria fade away within 30 minutes, but for some people, they can last over an hour. About 7 percent of people with chronic hives have cholinergic urticaria.

2. Aquagenic Urticaria

Aquagenic urticaria is a rare condition that happens when contact with water, no matter the temperature, causes hives. It’s a form of chronic inducible urticaria that causes itchy hives to develop shortly after exposure to water. The exact cause isn’t fully understood, but it’s believed to involve a reaction between certain substances on the skin and water.

3. Dermographic Urticaria

Dermographic urticaria, also called dermographia or dermographism, is a type of chronic inducible urticaria that’s triggered by pressure or scratching. Scrubbing with a towel or loofah during a shower could irritate your skin and cause hives to appear. Hot water could also trigger dermographic urticaria.

4. Cold Urticaria

Sudden temperature changes, like stepping into cold water, can cause the body’s immune system to release histamine, a chemical that can lead to hives. Symptoms of cold urticaria usually ease as your skin gets warmer and often go away within an hour or two.

You may notice hives after some showers but not others. This is because triggers can vary and may not always cause a reaction. For example, stress, dry skin, or even certain products used on the skin during a shower could also play a role. The timing of hives after a shower could also be unrelated.

How To Prevent Hives After Showering

Everyone’s body is different, and triggers vary from person to person. Here are some simple home remedies you can try that may help reduce flare-ups after showering:

• Take shorter, cooler showers — Skip the hot shower, and take a lukewarm one instead.
• Avoid harsh scrubbing — Gently use your hands to apply products during your shower instead of loofahs, mesh sponges, or washcloths, which could irritate the skin.
• Use fragrance-free products — Products with fragrance can irritate the skin. Even products that are labeled as unscented might contain a fragrance, so look for fragrance-free.
• Dry off gently — Instead of rubbing your skin, gently pat it dry.
• Apply a soothing moisturizer — Applying moisturizer after showering can help lock in hydration and prevent dry skin. You may need to apply it many times throughout the day.

What if Your Hives Keep Coming Back?

If you keep getting hives after showering, talk to your doctor or dermatologist. They may suggest keeping a journal of when your hives show up so you can spot patterns and potential triggers. With your healthcare provider, you can find the treatment plan that’s right for you. Options may include:

• Over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamines — Antihistamines are usually taken by mouth, but some anti-itch creams can also help. Your doctor may recommend taking antihistamines daily to prevent severe hives.
• Cooling lotions — Lotions or creams with ingredients like menthol may help soothe itchy skin. Applying a cool washcloth or gently rubbing an ice cube onto the skin may also provide relief but should be avoided in people with cold urticaria.
• Calming routines — Stress can trigger hives for some people, so reducing stress through techniques like daily journaling and deep breathing may help prevent flare-ups.
• Prescription medications — If your hives don’t improve with OTC medications and home remedies, talk to your healthcare provider about prescription treatment options.

Living with chronic hives can be tough, especially when everyday routines like showering trigger itching or discomfort. The good news is that chronic hives are manageable. Learning what sets off your flare-ups, working with your doctor, and following a treatment plan can help you get better control over symptoms. With time and the right support, many people find ways to feel more comfortable and keep doing activities they enjoy.

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On MyChronicHivesTeam, people share their experiences with chronic hives, get advice, and find support from others who understand.

What strategies have you found most helpful in managing hives after showering? Let others know in the comments below.