Skin picking disorder, also called dermatillomania, is a mental health condition where a person repeatedly picks at their skin, often causing sores, scarring and emotional distress.
While occasional picking at a scab or blemish is common, this condition goes beyond a habit and can interfere with daily life.
We spoke with Divya Singh, a psychiatrist at Banner Behavioral Health Hospital, about why it happens and how it can be treated.
What is skin picking disorder?
Skin picking disorder (excoriation disorder) is a type of obsessive-compulsive related condition.
“Skin-picking is quite common,” Singh said, but in some people it becomes repetitive and difficult to control.
People with this condition may:
- Pick at healthy skin, scabs or blemishes
- Feel relief during or after picking
- Struggle to stop even when they want to
What are the symptoms of dermatillomania?
Signs of skin picking disorder include:
- Repeated skin picking that causes damage
- Sores, scars or infections
- Spending significant time picking or covering up skin
- Feeling distress, shame or embarrassment
- Trouble with work, school or social situations
In severe cases, people may spend hours a day picking their skin.
Why do people pick their skin?
Skin picking can have different triggers and causes.
Common reasons include:
- Stress or anxiety
- A need to relieve tension
- Trying to fix a perceived skin flaw
- Habitual or repetitive behavior
“It can come and go over time and may start with something small like a scab or irritation,” Singh said.
Is skin picking disorder linked to other conditions?
Yes. Skin picking disorder is part of a group called body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs).
It is often linked to:
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Anxiety or depression
- Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD)
- Hair-pulling disorder (trichotillomania)
What complications can it cause?
Skin picking disorder can lead to:
- Infections
- Open wounds or lesions
- Permanent scarring
- Skin damage or disfigurement
It can also affect emotional well-being and quality of life.
How to stop skin picking
Treatment can help reduce or stop the behavior.
Options may include:
Behavioral therapy
Therapy can help identify triggers and replace the behavior with safer alternatives.
Examples include:
- Using fidget tools
- Wearing gloves or bandages
- Developing new coping strategies
Medication
Some medications may help reduce urges, including:
- Antidepressants (such as SSRIs)
- Certain anticonvulsants
- Naltrexone
When should you seek help?
You should talk to a provider if:
- You can’t stop picking your skin
- You’re developing sores or scars
- The behavior affects your daily life
- You feel distress, shame or anxiety
Frequently asked questions about skin picking disorder
Is skin picking disorder a mental illness?
Yes, it is classified as a mental health condition related to OCD.
Why can’t I stop picking my skin?
It may be driven by anxiety, habits or underlying mental health conditions.
Can skin picking disorder be treated?
Yes, therapy and medication can help manage symptoms.
Is it common?
Occasional picking is common, but the disorder itself is less common.
The bottom line
Skin picking disorder is more than a habit. It’s a treatable mental health condition. With the right support, many people can reduce symptoms and improve their quality of life.
If you or a loved one is struggling, a Banner behavioral health specialist can help.
