Scratching an itch is almost irresistible — even though it can make a problem worse. Now researchers have discovered a mechanism that explains the "itch-scratch cycle".

Scratching isn’t just a bad habit — it’s an immune defense mechanism. While it fuels inflammation, it also helps fight ...

In fact, Kaplan observed the same result with control mice that were wearing tiny Elizabethan collars to prevent scratching, suggesting that the effects are the result of scratching rather than ...

Itch-scratching is a paradox. It can be both bad and good for you, a new scientific study suggests. LIKE BOING BOING BUT NOT ...

Scratching an itch can bring a contradictory wave of pleasure and misery. A mouse study on scratching, reported in the Jan. 31 Science, fleshes out this ...

Scratching where it itches reduces the presence of potentially harmful bacteria on the skin, studies in mice show.

Recent research has focused on understanding the complex mechanisms behind itch sensation and identifying potential therapeutic targets to alleviate this condition. This body of work has revealed ...

Several studies have confirmed the effectiveness of capsaicin for itch in patients with psoriasis (Ellis et al., 1993). The exact mechanism is not fully understood; however, prolonged application ...

New research uncovers the dual nature of scratching an itch; although it can worsen skin inflammation, it can also boost ...

In rare cases, people with sunburn may also experience an extreme, deep, painful itching called hell’s itch. Also known as devil’s itch or fire ant itch, some people describe it as an ...

Scratching is something most of us do mindlessly. It doesn’t have to be a big deal, unless it is in hard to reach place. But ...