How

to Scratch
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METHODS

1Caring for Your Nails

2Scratching Yourself

3Scratching Someone Else

OTHER SECTIONS

Tips and Warnings

Related Articles

References

Article Summary
Author Info
Last Updated: November 24, 2020 References
In the vast majority of cases, scratching is used to sate itching around the body. While this
often leads to a pleasant sensation of relief, overdoing it can lead to rashes and even
scarring. Knowing when and how to scratch can help forego a lot of undue irritation. While
scratching may come naturally to most anything with nails, claws or talons, there are
definitely some things you should keep in mind next time you're tending to an itch.
Method 1
Caring for Your Nails

1
2
3.

3
• This is especially true if you like to keep your nails fashionably long. Make a
point every day of cleaning the buildup muck from underneath your
fingernails. It will alleviate a lot of future hassle. [2]
 4
• Trimming your nails is also recommended. While some people prefer longer
nails as part of their style, it can add undue complications when it comes to
scratching. Longer nails carry more bacteria, and may even run the risk of
breaking apart if too much pressure is applied.
• Don't bit your nails. While it may seem like a nice alternative compared to trimming
them with clippers, your nails will look nicer if you go the extra mile. [3]
Method 2
Scratching Yourself

1
2.

2
• Use a wet compress if you have an irritated area. Put a clean hand towel in a
bowl of warm water and several drops of essential oils. Wring it out and apply
to the afflicted area. You should feel a sensation of pleasant relief within several
seconds.
• Other mild itching may go away within seconds if left unattended.
• As a general rule, drinking a lot of water throughout the day will help to keep
the rest of your body hydrated.

3
• As with most things, it's best to keep your scratching within moderation. Anything
more than a light scratch could actually exacerbate the scratch you're trying to
solve!
• Limit yourself to scratching sessions of 30 seconds maximum.
Method 3
Scratching Someone Else
1.
 1
2.

2
• If you're having any difficulty with finding the spot, you can play the 'hot/cold' game; the
person will say 'hotter' if you're getting closer to the afflicted area. Likewise, the person
will say 'colder' if you're getting further away from it.
3.

3
• At the same time, don't be afraid to get more intense! Your partner's skin could very well be
tougher than yours, so you shouldn't be shy about digging in slightly more than you
normally would.
Expert Q&A
Submit
Tips
• If you're looking for something handy that carries less risk of bacteria, you can buy back-
scratchers relatively cheaply. They usually come in the form of a stick with prongs at the end,
allowing you to reach hard-to-get areas (like your mid-back) without needing to strain
yourself.

• Above all, be gentle with your scratching, no matter where or whom you're scratching. The
slightest bit of excess force can irritate or even break your skin, and most itches don't require
more than a light scratch to be quenched.

• Itching can be avoided in the future by taking note of the possible causes. Above all, rough
fabrics may instigate itching, so if you have sensitive skin it may be most effective to choose
clothes that best suit your skin.

Warnings
•

Don't scratch any blisters or areas of skin with a condition like eczema. Doing so risks
potentially bad scarring. Topical creams are a far better choice.
 •

There is a lot of evidence which suggests scratching an itch excessively will only brig the
itch back. If you need to scratch, keep your scratching in moderation. [5]
Related wikiHows

References
1. ↑http://www.glamour.com/lipstick/blogs/girls-in-the-beauty-department/2011/11/beauty-myster
y-why-is-so-much
2. ↑http://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/how-to/a159/keeping-long-nails-clean/
3. ↑http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=173821
4. ↑http://www.embarrassingproblems.com/problem/itching/itching-remedies
5. ↑http://www.smithsonianmag.com/ist/?next=/smart-news/scratching-itch-soothes-then-your-brai
n-makes-it-worse-180953243/
About This Article
Co-authors: 14
Updated: November 24, 2020
Views: 12,220
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Co-authors: 14
Updated: November 24, 2020
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