Why Scratching Your Itch Could Worsen Your Rash: What Science Reveals

We’ve all felt that sudden itch, right? It’s hard to resist scratching, even when we know it won’t help. A new study suggests that scratching can make things worse by increasing inflammation and delaying healing.

Specifically, the research focused on allergic contact dermatitis, a form of eczema that occurs from reactions to allergens like poison ivy or nickel. When our skin reacts, it can become red, swollen, and very itchy. However, scratching only aggravates the condition, making it tougher to heal.

According to Daniel Kaplan, a dermatologist from the University of Pittsburgh, scratching may have an interesting purpose. While it feels good in the moment, it also serves as a defense against skin infections. This highlights a complex relationship between itchiness and our body’s immune response.

To dig deeper, researchers used allergens to induce itching in two groups of mice: one that could scratch and one that couldn’t. The scratching mice showed more swelling and inflammation than those that couldn’t scratch, confirming that scratching indeed worsens the condition.

When we scratch, it triggers the release of a substance called substance P from our pain-sensing neurons. This substance activates mast cells, which are key players in the itch and inflammation process. Kaplan explained that even though mast cells drive inflammation and itchiness, they also help fight off bacterial infections.

The movement caused by scratching actually reduces the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus on the skin, which could provide some benefit. However, repeatedly scratching can cause more long-term damage than good, especially with chronic itching.

The researchers at the University of Pittsburgh hope to develop new treatments for skin conditions by focusing on mast cells. They aim to find ways to target these cells to reduce inflammation without triggering the itch-scratch cycle. Their findings could lead to better treatments for those suffering from skin issues.

Next time you feel an itch, remember that resisting the urge to scratch might actually help your skin heal faster. Instead of scratching, consider using soothing creams, cool compresses, or medications designed to relieve irritation.

The full study is published in the journal Science.