Scratching feels so good, but it’s actually bad for you
Dermatological research using mice models confirms that scratching an itch triggers an inflammatory immune response that worsens the condition. The study suggests that resisting the urge to scratch allows the skin to heal significantly faster.
Why it matters
Understanding the biological mechanism of the itch-scratch cycle provides a scientific basis for medical advice on treating rashes and bug bites.
You’ve likely heard it since childhood: Don’t scratch that bug bite or rash, you’ll make it worse.
But why would something that feels so good be bad?
A lot of things can cause itchiness, sometimes even serious diseases.
Whatever the cause, doctors have long warned that scratching too much can damage the skin.
Now, researchers better understand why even a mildly annoying itch could put you on an itch-and-scratch cycle if you give in.
In part by putting tiny “cones of shame” onto mice to uncover what happens on a cellular level when an itch gets scratched, or left alone.
They also gained insight into why a good scratch brings a sigh of relief – at least at first.
After all, not just people and other mammals scratch, even fish do.
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