Science Focus - the home of BBC Science Focus Magazine
Why do paper cuts hurt so much?

Why do paper cuts hurt so much?

By
Subscribe to BBC Science Focus Magazine and get 6 issues for just £9.99

They say the first cut is the deepest, but baby we know why it’s so painful.

Asked by: Rachel Cattini, London

Advertisement

At a microscopic level, paper is actually quite rough. A metal knife makes a clean straight cut, but paper acts like a saw blade and does a lot more damage to cells and nerve endings. Paper also leaves behind tiny fibres and chemical residues, which irritate the wound even more.

Advertisement

Subscribe to BBC Focus magazine for fascinating new Q&As every month and follow @sciencefocusQA on Twitter for your daily dose of fun science facts.

Authors

luis villazon
Luis VillazonQ&A expert

Luis trained as a zoologist, but now works as a science and technology educator. In his spare time he builds 3D-printed robots, in the hope that he will be spared when the revolution inevitably comes.

Advertisement
Advertisement
BBC Science Focus Magazine subscription offer

Subscription offer

Subscribe and save 50% on the shop price. Pay just £16.50 every 6 issues by Direct Debit. Receive every issue delivered direct to your door with FREE UK delivery.

SUBSCRIBE NOW
Advertisement

Sponsored content