There are topical treatments and over-the-counter (OTC) medications that help relieve shingles blisters that cause pain and itch on the face and scalp. Patients must avoid scratching the blisters to prevent skin infection and worsening of itching symptoms.

Facts

There is no cure for the shingles virus and treatment focuses on minimizing the symptoms of the condition. Calamine lotion and cool compresses help to relieve the itch on the face and scalp along with OTC medications like antihistamines.

Function

To relieve the itch, calamine lotion is applied directly to the skin on the face and scalp. Doctors do not recommend using warm compresses because it will intensify the itching symptoms, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.

Prevention

Anti-itch treatments such as calamine lotion and cold compresses prevent blisters from breaking open while scratching. According to the Mayo Clinic, a vaccine is available that may prevent an outbreak of shingles in patients who have had chicken pox but not shingles.

Complications

Without treatment for itching, patients may scratch the lesions and cause a bacterial infection of the skin. Bacteria is introduced to the lesions during scratching, which may spread the virus to other areas.

Antiviral Medications

Antiviral medications taken as soon the symptoms of shingles begin can shorten the length of the outbreak, which in turn lessens the itching caused by shingles blisters.

Source:

Mayo Clinic: Shingles

The Ohio State University Medical Center: Shingles

University of Maryland Medical Center: Shingles and Chickenpox