You can use a cool compress as long as you need to. Re-soak the cloth every 5-10 minutes to keep the area cool and soothed. Avoid using very cold water because in some people, this can make the hives worse. [3] X Trustworthy Source American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology National professional organization of allergists, asthma specialists and immunologists that focuses on supporting and publishing research Go to source

Place a cup of rolled oats in a clean knee-high nylon stocking. Tie this over the water tap so that the water runs through the oats as it enters the bathtub or a bowl to make an oatmeal bath. Putting the oatmeal in a nylon stocking will make for easier cleanup and won’t clog your drains. If you are using colloidal oatmeal, you can just sprinkle it in the water. Use cool water, as warm, hot, or cold water can make hives worse. Soak a towel in the oatmeal bath and apply it to your face. Repeat as often as needed. To make an oatmeal mask, mix 1 tablespoon of colloidal oatmeal with 1 teaspoon of honey and 1 teaspoon of yogurt. Apply the mixture to your skin and leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes. Rinse the mask off using cool water.

You can also reduce itching exacerbated by dry skin by using a fragrance-free moisturizer. [6] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source

Non-sedating antihistamines like Loratadine (Claritin, Claritin D, Alavert), Fexofenadine (Allegra, Allegra D), and Cetirizine (Zyrtec, Zyrtec-D)[9] X Trustworthy Source American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology National professional organization of allergists, asthma specialists and immunologists that focuses on supporting and publishing research Go to source Sedating antihistamines like Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) and Chlorpheniramine (Chlor-Trimeton) Prescription corticosteroids, like Prednisone and Methylprednisolone Leukotriene inhibitors, like Montelukast (Singulair) Topical immune-modulating substances, like Tacrolimus (Protopic)

Skin rashes which may include hives. There may be itching and red skin. Swelling in the throat Wheezing or other difficulty breathing Chest tightness Coughing Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea Dizziness or fainting

Angioedema is a deeper form of swelling in the skin that often occurs around the face. It is a deeper swelling than hives and occurs anywhere on the body, but when it appears on the face, it commonly occurs around the eyes and lips. Angioedema can be very dangerous because it can also cause swelling around the throat. If you experience any form of hives around the face and also feel any tightening of your throat, any changes in your voice, or any difficulty swallowing or breathing, this could be a medical emergency. You should call for help immediately. [13] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source

Hives can be very itchy. They may also be associated with a sensation of burning. Hives can cause your skin to get very red and hot.

Food Medicine Insect bites or stings Animals Pollen Allergy shots Infections Illnesses Sun exposure Exercise Stress Contact with chemicals Pressure on the skin Scratching

For example, if you react to pollens, avoid being outside in the morning and in the evening when pollen levels are at their highest. If you are allergic to the sun, wear a hat or protective coverings. Avoid common irritants such as insect sprays, tobacco and wood smoke, and fresh tar or paint as much as possible.