Hi, After reading history, I think that your friend would have prurigo most probably. It may be caused by either allergens or irritants...like soap,dust, housedust mites,pollens,wool,cosmetics,deodarant..etc or dietary factors like cows milk,soya protien,nuts,eggs,sea foods..etc. it may be triggered by mental upsets like anxiety,depression...etc. you consult dermatologist for firm diagnosis. Blood investigations may be done to rule out internal abnormalities. Steroids in tappering doses,antihistaminics,antipsychotic drugs..etc may be considered. Applications of steroid cream combined with antibiotic like gentamycine may be done. Soap bath should be avoided. Dettol liq may be used. I hope this would help you in managing your friend s problems. Thanks. Dr. Ilyas Patel MD