What is Dermatillomania or skin picking disorder? This is how you can treat it

Who doesn’t want flawless, glass-like skin? But, these stubborn skin problems just don’t seem to leave us alone. What do we do? We end up picking the skin, causing abrasions, inflammations and even bleeding at times. This is called 'dermatillomania' or excoriation disorder. In order to smooth out our top layer of skin, we tend to pick willingly and unwillingly on our acne, spots, moles, and even scars. While few people find it oddly satisfying, others might do it out of anxiety, stress, anger, or boredom as well. Amid the situation, deadly coronavirus pandemic has taught us the importance of not touching our face to reduce the chances of infection, it could be more difficult for a person who’s suffering from Dematillomania or skin picking disorder. However, it is curable . You can treat it effectively with a strong will and determination.

The first step to treat this harmful habit is to recognise what triggers you the most to start picking off the skin. It can be a certain situation, emotion, feeling, or skin condition. Once you find it out, it will be easy to break the cycle. If you have acne or mole that leads to picking the skin, consult a doctor for skin treatment.

It is better to keep your nails trim and clean to avoid infection while trying to stop yourself from harming the skin. Try resisting the urge of picking for a minute and gradually increase the time. Take a deep breath and recall why it's not going to help you. Keep your skin moisturised and hands cover to curb your urges.

Another popular way to stop this disorder can be keeping your hands occupied. Try clenching and unclenching your hands or take it all out on a stress ball. Solving a Rubik’s cube can also help to release the tension due to the picking urges.

Consult a behavioral therapy by a clinical psychologist if you can’t control your desire to pick the skin despite trying the above measures.

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