Itching is about the lowest form of detectable pain. Not the best definition, but it’s the best way I can describe it. When you have a bruise, it helps to rub it, which stimulates the nerves surrounding the area. I suppose that’s why scratching sometimes helps. In general, scratching resolves the problem for a short while, and the itching is redoubled later, usually because you now have irritated or damaged skin in addition to the original problem. Itching is often a side effect of healing. I have no idea why that is so.