Hot water has never in my opinion made matters worse. It has in fact made any outbreak I've ever had absolutely tolerble, to the point that if I get itchy, I just take another hot shower. The hot water releases histimine. Histimine is the stuff in your cells that tell you brain to scratch. I also believe it does indeed speed up the healing process. Increasing blood flow speeds up the healing process as it is blood that replenishes the cells with vital nutrients. This holds true for anything broken on your body. Vitamin C and E supplements would also probably be appropriate to help you and your skin heal as well. If you experience allergic reactions on other parts of you body, it does not mean the hot water made it spread. Odds are pretty good that you would have broken out there as well. It's like patients claiming they got the Flu from their Flu shot. If your reaction worsens or is on your face, you should see your doctor. I've noticed some people recomending household cleaners and other chemical remedies on this site. It should be noted that introducing any chemical unapproved for human use internaly or externaly is not a wise practice. It could in fact cause a sever reaction, medical complications and even death. Topical ointments "approved" for human use are always your best bet. Sarna is a topical anit-itch ointment available over the counter. If you see your doctor he/she may prescribe other medications. Be smart and don't be afraid of the hot shower.
