Pruritus (medical term for itchiness) is defined as an unpleasant sensation that leads to the urge to scratch (1). It can occur in many circumstances and may be caused by exogenic agents (chemical products, medicinal products) or be solely neurogenic or psychogenic.
It can be a cause of physical suffering but also emotional suffering and can have repercussions on the quality of life. Although scratching can relieve itchiness in the short term, it can aggravate the situation in the long term. It is therefore important to use suitable products.
(1) Misery L. Le prurit: des avancées physiopathologiques considérables. Med Sci (Paris). 2014; 30:1123-8.