RecruitingInterventional

Scratch Less Study

The Scratch Less study is looking for people aged 8 and over with eczema to test an online programme. Many people with eczema find itching and scratching a big problem, and sometimes scratching can become a habit, even making eczema worse. This study aims to see if a special online programme, called Scratch Less, can help people reduce their scratching. If you join, you'll be put into one of two groups: one will try the online programme, and the other will continue with their usual eczema care. The study lasts 4 months, and you'll answer questions each month from home. This research hopes to find better ways to manage eczema and reduce scratching, ultimately improving the lives of those affected.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust

Enrolment target

556

Start

14 May 2026

Estimated completion

30 Apr 2027

Eczema in people aged 8 years and older

What is this study about?

Eczema can be really annoying, often causing lots of itching. When you're itchy, it's natural to scratch, but sometimes scratching can become a tough habit to break, even when you're not feeling particularly itchy. This can even make your eczema worse. Researchers are looking for better ways to help people get this scratching under control.

This study, called 'Scratch Less', is part of a bigger project looking into helpful ways to manage eczema. It's testing a special online programme designed to help people reduce their scratching. The programme helps you understand when and why you scratch, and then suggests ways to do something else instead of scratching. You can do the programme at your own pace from home, and it's designed to take about three weeks.

If you join, you'll be put into one of two groups by chance. One group will try the Scratch Less online programme, and the other group will continue with their usual eczema care. Everyone will answer some questions over 4 months to help the researchers understand if the programme is helpful. The study team includes people with eczema, making sure the research addresses questions that truly matter to those living with the condition.

Key takeaways

Tests an online programme to help reduce eczema scratching.
Open to anyone aged 8 and over with eczema in the UK.
Takes place entirely from home, no clinic visits needed.
Involves a 4-month commitment with monthly online questions.
You might try the programme or continue usual care.

Who may be eligible?

To be part of the Scratch Less study, you need to be at least 8 years old and have eczema. You should also live in the UK and be happy to use an online programme as part of the study.

There are a few reasons why you might not be able to join. For example, if your doctor thinks your skin condition is not eczema but something else, like a rash only on your hands or around varicose veins, then this study might not be right for you. Also, if you're already in another study about eczema, or if someone else in your household is already taking part in this Scratch Less study, you wouldn't be able to join.

If you're under 16, a parent or legal guardian will need to give permission for you to take part.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 8 years old or older?
Do you have eczema (atopic dermatitis)?
Do you live in the UK?
Are you comfortable using an online programme?
Is your skin condition definitely eczema (and not something like hand or varicose eczema)?
Is no one else in your household already taking part in this same study?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part, you'll sign up online from home. First, you'll answer some questions about your eczema and how you currently treat it. Then, you'll be randomly placed into one of two groups. One group will do the `Scratch Less` online programme, which is designed to take about 3 weeks at your own pace. The other group will simply continue with their usual eczema care.

The study lasts for 4 months in total. Each month, you'll be asked to complete some questionnaires that will be sent to you by email or text message. You'll get reminders to help you remember, and if needed, some information might be collected over the phone. You won't need to visit a clinic or travel anywhere; everything can be done from home.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study could potentially help you understand and manage your eczema better, especially regarding itching and scratching. Some people find it rewarding to contribute to research that could help others in the future, while others enjoy trying out new approaches for their own health. The researchers don't expect you to experience any harm from taking part. You should continue to use your regular eczema treatments and always speak to your doctor or nurse if you have any concerns or your symptoms worsen. Remember, you are free to leave the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your usual medical care.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

All recruitment will take place online via the Rapid Eczema Trials website
Unverified
Nottingham, England

Common questions

What is the 'Scratch Less' programme?

It's a 3-part online programme designed to help people with eczema manage their itching and reduce scratching habits.

How long does the study last?

The study lasts for 4 months in total, during which you'll answer questions monthly.

Do I need to visit a clinic?

No, you don't need to travel. Everything for the study can be done from your own home online.

What if I'm in the 'usual care' group?

You'll continue with your regular eczema treatments. At the end of the study, you'll be able to try the Scratch Less programme if you want to.

Who is funding this research?

The study is funded by a UK organisation called the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR).

How to find out more

Eleanor Harrison

rapideczematrials@nottingham.ac.uk +44 (0)115 8231600 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.