Practical tips for scratching

What is scratching?

Scratching is one of the main causes of skin redness and irritation in a person with eczema. It is scratching that damages the skin, not the itch. When the skin itches, the response is to scratch, and this can become an unconscious, conditioned response. In other words, this is a learnt human behaviour and quickly becomes an automatic reaction, even in very small babies.

What scratching does to your skin?

At first, scratching the skin produces redness, and then a rash and irritation may follow. If scratching continues, the skin can become broken and bleed. Once the skin has been broken, there is a risk of infection. Broken skin also allows irritants (e.g. fragrance, soaps and detergents) and allergens (e.g. pollens and animal dander) to enter the skin easily and cause a reaction, which in turn will make the itching worse and may cause the eczema to flare up.

Useful tips to reduce scratching

Use emollients frequently enough to prevent dry skin.
Always apply emollients in smooth, downward strokes. Do not rub them into the skin as this can make itching worse.
Keep nails short and make sure there are no jagged edges.
Use soap substitutes or emollients to wash with and rinse off. Avoid just plain water as this can make itching worse.
After washing and bathing, pat the skin dry with a soft towel rather than rubbing.
Distract yourself or your child from the itch. Watch a DVD, read a book, go out or give children toys to play with or an activity to do.
Ventilate rooms and bedrooms on a regular basis.
Keep rooms and bedrooms cool, especially at night (18°C or below).
Wear cotton clothing and gloves.
If you have pets, do not allow them in the bedroom as dander can irritate eczema.
Hoover and damp dust regularly.