Skin Picking: What it is and is not
Let’s talk skin picking. I know, no-one likes to talk about it… that’s more reason to do so. To break down the stigma and shame.
Skin picking, or dermatillomania, is a mental health condition. A person picks or scratches their skin, often causing injuries or scarring. (Also called excoriation disorder, but that’s not as common.)
It lies within OCD, that’s to say, it’s on the obsessive–compulsive spectrum. It goes beyond a ‘bad habit’. I’d say it’s more like an addiction, because of the compulsive element. It’s not something someone can simply 'choose' to stop. It causes mental and physical harm, and continues despite repeated attempts to stop. It comes with feelings of embarrassment, distress, shame, guilt and a loss of control.
It usually reduces in the presence of others – meaning we like to be alone when we really get stuck in.
You might target particular body parts, like the face or arms. You might use tools like tweezers or pins. You might have rituals such as checking your skin before or after. The disorder can swallow up hours each day, either picking, or thinking about it.
It is more common in individuals who have dermatological conditions (shocking), autoimmune disorders, or autism.
Around 75% of those diagnosed are female! This could be due to a larger emphasis on women’s physical appearance in most cultures. Women are more likely to seek treatment, so the male statistics could be under-reported.
Is dermatillomania self-harm?
No, dermatillomania is separate from self-harm. (Some GPs may disagree with therapists on this.) Self-harm is the deliberate act of causing pain. Usually to seek relief from difficult emotions or thoughts.
Dermatillomania is more about ‘correcting an imperfection’. E.g. removing the scab so the skin feels soft. The pain is rarely the intention; if anything, it’s an unwanted consequence.
That distinction matters. Understanding why someone picks their skin is often the first step towards helping them. The good news is that because skin picking is a learned brain pattern, it can also be unlearned and reduced. When the nervous system feels safe, we can create change.
If you have dermatillomania, one of the most helpful things you can do is educate the people closest to you. It’s easy for family or friends to think/say, "just stop picking." But if it were that simple, you would have done it already. Having your skin/picking pointed out increases shame and self-consciousness. Those feelings can trigger the very urge you're trying to resist. Creating a frustrating cycle of shame, comfort-seeking and more picking. Instead, ask your loved ones for understanding rather than policing. Compassion is far more effective than criticism.
And finally, a reminder: recovery is possible. I’ve had the privilege of helping many people break free from skin picking, and this recent Google review perfectly captures why I love the work I do:
Past Client Review:
"After years of struggling with dermatillomania, Jennifer finally helped me through. Her technique is incredible and I recommend her to anyone struggling with skin picking disorders. Whether you’re at the beginning or the deep middle of your journey, give her a try! You won’t be disappointed."