Skin Picking: What’s Normal and What’s Not

source:flickr by:ashley.adcox

Most people with acne (and even some people who don’t experience acne) tend to pick at their skin. While skin picking is certainly not advised, mild picking or scratching generally won’t do more harm than causing your acne lesions to heal at a slower rate. Sometimes those who pick at their skin more often or with a more aggressive approach will experience scarring or pigmentation issues, which may require use of an acne scar treatment. These habits are considered normal, however unadvised they may be.

There are, however, people who suffer from Dermatillomania, or Compulsive Skin Picking. Dermatillomania is classified as an impulsive control disorder, and is often experienced by those who also suffer from Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. Dermatillomania usually causes the sufferer to pick at the skin on their face, although they may also pick at the skin on their body or scalp. Compulsive Skin Picking can lead to extreme scarring and other disfigurement. Although Dermatillomania is not directly tied to adult acne, it can also lead to acne issues due to the spreading and embedding of dirt, oils and bacteria.

Compulsive Skin Picking is used by sufferers to cope with stress, boredom or perfectionism. Dermatillomania may be practiced by those who are easily distracted or distressed. If you suspect that you suffer from Dermatillomania, there are many treatment options available to you, which will help you reclaim your life and your complexion.

Acne caused by CSP is able to be treated using traditional acne treatment products. Some suffers of Dermatillomania find that acne treatments formulated with benzoyl peroxide help keep them from picking, as this ingredient is known to stain linens when used in a concentration of 2.5% or higher. Along those same lines, acne scar treatments using hydroquinone will also provide extra incentive to keep from picking, as hydroquinone is very likely to stain your linens, such as your clothes, bedsheets or towels. Of course, the best acne treatment for those with Dermatillomania is to stop picking. Unfortunately, this is easier said than done.

Dermatillomania may be treated with psychotherapy, medications or natural remedies. Some sufferers of CSP find that simply keeping their hands occupied will help them re-train their minds and bodies to keep from picking. Before attempting to find a Dermatillomania treatment on your own, visit your health care professional to confirm your self-diagnosis and learn about the best treatment options for you. Remember, the information provided on this website is never meant to replace the professional opinion, advice or diagnosis of your health care professional.