Scientists raise hopes of cure for eczema itchiness with study of skin bacteria

Scientists hope the research will translate into new treatments for people with conditions such as eczema. Photograph: Bsip Sa/Alamy

Whether it’s a tickle of the nose, or an irritation in one’s hair, itches can be excruciating. Now scientists say they have found a common type of skin bacteria can trigger the sensation.

Crucially, as such bacteria are commonly found on the skin of patients with eczema – or atopic dermatitis – the work helps explain why such conditions can be accompanied by the urge to scratch.