Vibratory urticaria may be why a handheld massage gun makes your skin itch. This rare condition causes mild discomfort to hives moments after exposing your skin to vibration.

However, there are other causes for itchiness after your percussion therapy.

Keep reading to learn more about vibratory urticaria and other potential causes of massage gun itchiness. We also list helpful tips for minimising skin reactions while using your massager.

What is Vibratory Urticaria?

Vibratory urticaria is a rare reaction that results in skin redness, swelling, or itching minutes after exposing it to a vibration stimulus. It is due to histamine release from the cells and typically lasts for 1 to 2 hours.

Here are a few things you need to know about this condition:

  • Vibratory urticaria may happen when using a lawn mower, power tool, or a massage gun. It can also occur when jogging or mountain biking.
  • It may be a temporary or recurring skin reaction.
  • The redness or itching may affect only the skin exposed to vibration or may be widespread, impacting other body parts.
  • It is not a dangerous condition.

Antihistamines can aid in recovery, but consult a doctor or dermatologist before taking any medication.

Are Vibratory and Pressure Urticaria the Same?

Vibratory urticaria is due to vibration exposure of the skin, whereas pressure urticaria comes from sustained pressure.

Walking, sitting, or wearing tight clothing may cause pressure urticaria. Massage gun users who tend to dig the massager into the skin may also experience this condition.

While some may prefer pressing the massager deep into the skin, it is safer to let the machine do its work and follow proper massage gun use.

What are the Other Causes of Skin Itchiness After Using a Massage Gun?

Aside from vibratory urticaria, here are other reasons why a massage gun makes your skin itch.

Allergic Reaction

Irritant or contact dermatitis may be a possible cause of itching or redness after using a massage gun. For instance, you may be allergic to:

  • massage oils or lotions, especially those with tree or groundnut materials
  • cleaning agents of your massager
  • parts or materials of the massager, like silicone and other grippy components

Allergic reactions may also happen if you use someone else’s massage gun. Be sure to clean the massager after use and follow proper maintenance.

Nerve Stimulation

A massage gun can help relieve soreness and pain in the muscles by increasing your blood circulation to flush out toxic waste products.

However, increased blood flow also enlarges your blood vessels, stimulating the nerves.

Activated nerves can produce this tingling or itchy effect, often without the rashes or redness on the skin. This pin-and-needle sensation is also called paraesthesia.

Dry Skin

Using a massage gun on dry skin can be itchy and, at times, painful. Skin irritation can also happen when setting the massage gun speed too high.

Keep your skin moisturised, particularly during dryer months or seasons. Also, set the massage gun on low to reduce skin impact.

Naturally Sensitive Skin

Some skin types may be more sensitive than others. A burst of vibration or pressure from a massage gun can cause irritation.

Using lower massage speeds or settings may help solve the problem. Also, it’s best not to press the massage head onto the skin.

How Can You Avoid or Minimise Skin Itchiness After Massage?

You can still enjoy a relaxing massage despite skin sensitivities or allergies. Here are a few recommendations.

1. Use a gentler massage gun setting or attachment.

Before purchasing a massage gun, review its specifications. Select a massager with lower intensity settings if you have vibratory urticaria or other skin reactions related to vibration.

Choose a massage gun with a lower stall force, stroke length, and speed range. Also, pay attention to the components included in the device. Attachments with hypoallergenic foam or air-filled rubber may also work well for sensitive skin.

2. Switch to a heated massage gun.

Some newer massage gun models include a thermotherapy attachment, providing hot and cold treatment. Adding the temperature element into your massage gun sessions helps relieve muscle soreness while potentially alleviating skin itchiness.

3. Use the massager through clothing.

Some prefer to use a massage gun directly on their bare skin. However, if you get rashes or itchy skin from massages, try using the device with clothes on.

Doing this won’t lessen massage benefits or efficiency, so don’t worry. But remember that thicker clothing can reduce the impact of deep tissue massages.

4. Consult a physical therapist.

If none of the initial solutions work, consider seeing a PT to find other alternatives or products for muscle relief.

Remember to stop using the massager if the skin effects outweigh the benefits of percussion therapy. Seek professional help instead.

Exercise Caution When Using a Massage Gun

Most people can use a massage gun without experiencing adverse skin reactions. However, if you feel discomfort or observe allergy symptoms, discontinue use and consult a doctor right away.

Similarly, if you have pre-existing skin conditions or know skin allergies, talk to a health professional before doing a home massage or vibration therapy.

Lastly, use a massage gun with the right features that suit your skin and therapy needs.

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