A new study conducted in mice suggests that, although it's not all good, our urge to scratch at itchy skin may have an evolutionary benefit.

The research highlights why avoiding scratching is essential for healthier skin. Scratching may feel good in the moment, but it often makes rashes worse by increasing inflammation. While it can help fight bacteria, the long-term damage outweighs the short-term relief.

Scratching is often pleasurable, which suggests that, in order to have evolved, this behavior must provide some kind of benefit,” the senior study author said.

An itchy rash can be frustrating, and scratching often feels like the only relief. However, new research confirms that giving in to the urge only makes inflammation worse. The study, published in Science,

The itch from bug bites, rashes, and other skin conditions can sometimes be so overpowering that it feels impossible to avoid scratching them. But new research explains why you might want to hold off as long as you can.

Scratching an itchy rash really does make it worse. Now we know why, thanks to new research published today in the journal Science that uncovers how scratching aggravates inflammation and swelling in a mouse model of a type of eczema called allergic contact dermatitis.

From a relatively young age, many of us are given one overarching piece of advice when it comes to having an itch: whatever you do, don’t scratch it. Whether it’s from a mosquito bite, a sunburn or a blister,

An itch can drive you absolutely crazy, but there are times when scratching only makes it worse—throwing your body's inflammatory response into high gear. The post The 10 Itches You Should Never, Ever Scratch appeared first on The Healthy.