The first generation antihistamines are more effective for itching.
The MOST effective one is Atarax (still Rx)

The non-drowsy ones are much less effective for itching.
Claritin and Allegra.

Zyrtec is an analog of Atarax and is not advertised as less drowsy. (I find it hard to take-- I use 1/2 10mg tablet=5mg).
It is now OTC as well, and both SAMs and Costco have it in generic for very very low prices---less than the generic Claritin (loratidine).

I would not expect Claritin to work-- in fact there are studies showing it comparable to placebo! Also Claritin can raise liver enzymes -- I've seen that happen, and it did for me.
I think it is a very poor drug.

One other thing that affects the skin, is fabric softening chemicals. I recall when the dryer sheets first came out...the epidemic of red skin and rashes was enormous. Since that time this has reduced somewhat but I still think the residue of those chemicals can affect the skin. We don't use ANY liq or sheet softener in this house!

Also you can double rinse your clothes if you do them at home.
Watch that second rinse water as it spins out..and see all the soap it still has in it!

Some "burning" sensations are actually histamine ones.
If you can tolerate aspirin, try this test: Take some AlkaSeltzer regular formula when you have burning skin.
The bicarb mixed with the aspirin blocks the burning in most cases. Environmental physicians use a similar product for children with allergies (who cannot take aspirin) called TriSalts:
http://www.woodmed.com/FoodAllergy.htm

This solution is not for everyday/forever, but it does help for bad ones. It also illustrates the histamine connection to help you discover your triggers. There is alot of sodium in AlkaSeltzer so those with hypertension should use with care.
Do not use if you are not allowed aspirin.

So if you want an OTC antihistamine and do not want to do
Benadryl, try Zyrtec. If it makes you "feel strange" like it does me, break them in half. I find half works just as well for me taken twice a day, instead of once a day.