Scratching is not for primates

Your claws have evolved into flat nails so you can groom the cause of the irritation

How often have you seen dogs scratching?
Cats, bears, squirrels, hamsters, ... they all do it with their claws.
We also see hoofed mammals, such as horses, cows, camels, elephants, ... rub against a tree or an abrasive surface to stop their itching.

Oh! They have parasites

You immediately conclude that they are infested by fleas or another parasite and this holds true in many cases.
But scientists know that they see their laboratory rodents scratch even in a parasite free environment.
In fact, folded skin is generating the itch many of these animals feel, just like you.

Only primates have the right tools

For animal with claws, scratching must be a fairly perilous adventure even if they are pulled in.
Don't forget that the nails of primates have evolved gradually, starting with the index fingers.

Even for allergic reactions,
the itch is in the folds

Even if you know the cause of your itching, because you have been exposed to; allergenic plants, insects, chemical irritants, ... don't scratch the area, groom it.
You will be surprised to find your itch inside the folds and crossings of your skin.

Scratching is like sweeping the dirt
under the rug

When you scratch, since the source of the itching is not removed, only the anesthetic effect of grooming takes place.
You feel relieved, but you've done nothing at all.
At any occasion the itching will return.
But just wait; it's preparing that terrible ache, that chronic pain, that disability that will ruin your future days.

Scratching hurts the skin

You don't scratch long before your nails penetrate the epidermis.
Scratching rips the skin and you can often see blood lines where they have passed.
This is highly detrimental to your skin.
It takes days to heal.
Don't do it.

Never scratch nor pinch your skin.