Hidden Sneering Benefits, New Study Reveals Shocking Facts

Illustration ofhazing hands (Photo: Freepik/Freepik)

Itching parts of the body that are itching often feels very pleasant, although we know that this habit can worsen skin conditions. However, a recent study reveals that scratched turns out to have certain benefits for the body.

Sensation of joy when scratched arises due to friction that occurs creating a mild pain. This pain diverts the brain from itching and triggers the release of serotonin, a hormone that makes us feel comfortable.

"Sneering is often fun, which suggests that this behavior must have certain benefits so that it can develop evolutionaryally. Our study helps explain this paradox," said study senior author Dr. Daniel Kaplan, a professor of dermatology and immunology at the University of Pittsburgh, quoted by VOI from the NY Post page on Monday, February 17th.

Research conducted by a team from the University of Pittsburgh, led by Dr. Daniel Kaplan, found that scratch can increase the body's immune response to bacteria. In the study, researchers examined mice who experienced dermatitis of allergic contact, skin inflammation conditions due to exposure to allergen substances such as metals or certain plants.

As a result, mice who scratched experienced swelling and increased white blood cells that played a role in fighting infection. In addition, they also found that the garukan caused the release of a substance P, a compound that activated the mast cells. Mast cells are immune cells that release chemicals when detecting allergens. These chemicals include histamina, which causes swelling and reddening in the allergic reaction area.

"In contact dermatitis, the mast cells are directly activated by allergens, which trigger mild inflammation and itching," he explained.

"In response to the garukan, the P substance that is released activates the mass cell through the second lane. So, the reason why scratched triggers more inflammation of the skin is because the mast cells are synergistically activated through two lines," he added.

On the positive side, the researchers note that mass cells protect the body from bacteria and other pathogens. Further experiments show that scathing reduces the number of bacteria Staphylococcus aureus on the skin.

These bacteria, known as staphs, are the most common cause of skin infection and cause food poisoning, pneumonia, and bone infection. Kaplan's research results were published in the journal Science.

"The discovery that sweeping enhances defenses against Staphylococcus aureus shows that in some contexts, this can be useful," Kaplan said.

"However, damage to the skin caused by anchorage may outweigh the benefits, especially if itching occurs chronically." he continued

Kaplan is now continuing her research to develop new therapies for inflammatory skin conditions such as dermatitis, rosacea, and biduran.