Scratching can cause bruises, particularly when the skin has become thin and fragile from the use of steroid cream. I therefore try my best not to scratch. For the worst itches, I use Biofreeze spray, which works, and works immediately. Biofreeze also comes in cream, gel, and roll-on formulations, which I also use for run-of-the-mill itching. But nothing works like the spray when the itching is intense.