Science Says You Should Not Scratch Your Itchy Rash

Your parents were right: Scratching an itch might feel good at first, but it actually makes things worse. A study published in Science found that scratching activates nerves in your skin, causing the release of substance P, a chemical that makes skin cells react. This reaction leads to more redness, swelling, and irritation. The more you scratch, the worse these symptoms become, making it harder for your skin to heal properly.

Scratching can potentially also lead to tiny breaks in the skin, which create open wounds. These wounds allow bacteria and other germs to enter, increasing the chance of infection. Once an infection develops, the skin may take even longer to heal and could require medical treatment, such as antibiotics or special skin creams.

Scratching Can Make Skin Problems Last Longer

People with eczema, allergies, or bug bites often have the urge to scratch. But scratching makes the skin release tumor necrosis factor (TNF), which brings in more immune cells that cause even more itching and irritation. Over time, this can potentially lead to long-term skin problems, extra sensitivity, and even infections. If the cycle of scratching continues, it can cause thickened, leathery patches of skin, a condition known as lichenification. This can make skin look rough, dry, and darker than usual.

Additionally, scratching too much can cause post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, which leaves dark spots on the skin even after the rash has healed. For people with chronic skin conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis, frequent scratching can make flare-ups worse and increase the severity of symptoms over time.

Scratching Can Remove Good Bacteria From Your Skin

Your skin has both good and bad bacteria. The study found that scratching too much removes good bacteria, which can weaken your skin’s defenses. This makes it easier for harmful bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus to cause infections. While scratching can help fight off some bacteria, it also damages your skin, making it easier for new infections to start.

When the skin’s natural barrier is compromised, it becomes less effective at keeping moisture in and irritants out. This can lead to dry, cracked skin, which is more prone to further itching and irritation. The loss of beneficial bacteria also affects how your skin responds to inflammation, potentially making it more sensitive to allergens and environmental triggers.

Nerve Cells Play a Big Role in Making the Itching Worse

The study also showed that nerve cells in your skin play a big role in making the itch worse. As mentioned earlier, when you scratch, these cells release substance P, which makes mast cells in your skin react even more. This leads to more swelling, redness, and pain. Scientists found that stopping these nerve signals reduced inflammation, proving that nerves play a major role in skin irritation.

The more you scratch, the more these nerves are stimulated, creating a loop that makes itching and inflammation worse. Over time, this can lead to nerve hypersensitivity, where even mild irritants cause a strong itching response. Some people with chronic itching conditions may experience neuropathic itch, where the nerves continue sending itch signals even when there is no obvious cause.

How to Stop Scratching and Help Your Skin Heal

Since scratching makes things worse, finding ways to stop can help your skin heal faster. Some ways to avoid scratching include:

• Using anti-itch creams with hydrocortisone or antihistamines
• Placing a cool cloth on the itchy area
• Keeping fingernails short to avoid damaging the skin
• Wearing soft, loose clothing to prevent irritation
• Applying a thick moisturizer to create a protective barrier on the skin
• Taking an oatmeal or baking soda bath to soothe inflammation
• Distracting yourself with activities like squeezing a stress ball or fidgeting with a small object

The Bottom Line

Scratching might feel good at first, but it actually makes your rash worse by increasing inflammation, removing good bacteria, and slowing healing. Instead of scratching, try using moisturizers, anti-itch creams, and other ways to calm your skin. If your itch doesn’t go away, see a doctor to find out what’s causing it and how to treat it.

Ignoring the urge to scratch can be challenging, but finding healthy alternatives can help break the cycle. If you struggle with frequent itching, consider talking to a dermatologist about long-term solutions.