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If you pick at your skin to the point of causing damage, it's more than just a harmless habit. Here we explain what dermatillomania is and how you can get help.
What is dermatillomania?
Dermatillomania, also known as skin picking or excoriation disorder, is compulsive repetitive picking at one’s own skin, resulting in damage and wounds. The condition usually occurs in adolescence or young adulthood, but can also occur later in life and problems are often exacerbated by various forms of stress. Behaviors can lead to feelings of shame that may prevent people from seeking help, though dermatillomania can be treated.
Causes of dermatillomania
There are several reasons why people can develop dermatillomania. Research shows that both genetic and environmental factors contribute to the problem. Reasons for dermatillomania are similar to those for trichotillomania, or hair pulling disorder.
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Dermatillomania diagnosis
Do you pick, scratch, poke, pick or otherwise damage your skin?
Do you do it often?
Have you tried not to do it without success?
Does it become a problem for you?
If you answered yes to these questions, you may want to seek help.
Studies of adults have shown that between 1.4% and 5.4% of American adults suffer from dermatillomania (Mental Health America, 2024). It occurs more often in women than men, and is also seen in children and adolescents.. It is also common to have other psychological conditions such as anxiety, depression, dysmorphophobia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, eating disorders and bipolar syndrome at the same time as dermatillomania.
Dermatillomania and self-harm
Self-harm is sometimes confused with dermatillomania, though the driving force for each is quite different. Individuals with dermatillomania are driven by compulsions rather than a deep emotional pain that sometimes results in self-injury.
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Symptoms of dermatillomania
Dermatillomania involves compulsive picking at different parts of the body, such as the face, hands, nails, feet, arms, upper body or genitals. Picking can be done intentionally, but it is also common to pick without thinking about it. This can lead to sores and injuries that are then picked at. Some of the symptoms of dermatillomania are:
- Picking, scratching, poking, prodding, prodding or damaging the skin
- Attempts to to reduce or stop result in suffering and/or impairment
- Picking brings emotional relief and a sense of relaxation
- Skin picking results in skin infections and scarring
- Examining and/or swallowing skin after it is picked
- Feelings of shame and guilt due to the skin picking
If you recognize the symptoms of dermatillomania, you may want to seek help. We have psychologists at Lavendla who have experience treating skin picking disorder and are ready to support you.
Treatment for dermatillomania
The most effective treatment for dermatillomania is a form of therapy called Habit Reversal Training (HRT). HRT seeks to find alternative behaviors to skin picking. In short, the treatment involves first making the client aware of when they are picking skin (mindfulness training). Then the client is taught an action (countermovement) that is physically incompatible with skin picking (for example, clenching their fists). For best results, family members are also given information on how to help the client if they pick. In the case of dermatillomania, it is also important to follow up the treatment and ensure that the results are good in the long term.
HRT treatment consists of three parts:
- Consciousness training
- Counter-movement training
- Social support
Dermatillomania is a condition that comes in different degrees of severity. Milder problems can be treated in therapy using HRT, while more severe forms may require medications as well as more intensive therapies. Medical care may also be needed if physical problems such as infections occur due to the skin picking.
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Seeking help can change your life
Talking to a licensed psychologist or psychotherapist can not only help you understand your condition better but also offer effective ways to manage it. On our website, we have qualified therapists and psychologists who are happy to help relieve you of your compulsive behaviors.
Common misconceptions about therapy
Many people think that therapy is only for severe cases of mental illness or that seeking help is a weakness. In both cases, these are misconceptions. Therapy is a step towards improvement and self-understanding, and has become extremely popular in recent years for individuals who are simply looking for someone to talk to.
Your next step
If you or someone you know is struggling with dermatillomania, it’s a wise idea to talk to a professional therapist or psychologist. All of our therapists and psychologists are qualified and your conversation is always confidential. Don’t be afraid to take the first step.
Living with dermatillomania can be a daily struggle but fortunately there is help available. With the right support and tools, you can significantly improve your quality of life. If you are ready to take the plunge, we’re here to support you. Book your first session today and start your journey towards a better future.
12 frequently asked questions about dermatillomania
What is dermatillomania?
Dermatillomania is a problem of compulsive repetitive picking at one’s own skin, resulting in injuries and wounds.
How is dermatillomania diagnosed?
A diagnosis of dermatillomania is usually made by a licensed psychologist or psychiatrist through various tests and assessments. This may include questionnaires and clinical interviews.
Is dermatillomania hereditary?
Research shows that dermatillomania may have a genetic component but it is not the only factor. Environment also plays a role, as well as stress and anxiety.
What are the symptoms of dermatillomania?
In dermatillomania, people may compulsively pick at different parts of the body, such as the face, hands, nails, feet, arms, upper body or genitals. The picking may be intentional or happen without thinking about it.
How is dermatillomania treated?
Treatment can include a form of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) called habit reversal training (HRT) and stimulus control which has been shown to be particularly effective
Is there a cure for dermatillomania?
With the right treatment, symptoms can be managed and quality of life significantly improved. It is important to monitor results over time.
Can children get dermatillomania?
Yes, children and teenagers can also be affected. It is important to seek professional help as soon as possible for the best possible treatment outcome.
How common is dermatillomania?
Studies of adults have shown that between 1.4% and 5.4% of American adults suffer from dermatillomania.
Does dermatillomania affect my ability to work?
Yes, in severe dermatillomania it can affect functional capacity. However, it is possible to return to normal function with proper treatment.
Is dermatillomania more common in women or men?
Research has shown that dermatillomania is more common among women.
Can you have other problems at the same time as dermatillomania?
It is also common to have other psychological conditions such as anxiety, depression, dysmorphophobia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, eating disorders and bipolar syndrome. It is important to have an assessment by a licensed professional.
Where can I go if I need help?
Through our site, you can book an initial session with a therapist or psychologist to describe your problems and start planning treatment.
What does treatment for dermatillomania involve?
It’s a step in the right direction to decide to take control of how you feel. Here is an overview of the steps typically involved in CBT treatment.
Step 1: An initial assessment session
The first meeting with your psychologist or therapist is an assessment to review your mental and physical health. You may be asked questions about your life situation, feelings, thoughts and behaviors. You may also be asked to complete assessment forms.
Step 2: Goal setting
This is where you and your therapist set concrete goals for the therapy, both short and long term. They can define which areas of your life are most affected by your wellbeing and how you would like to change them.
Step 4: Treatment with different techniques and tools
This is the start of the actual treatment phase, which involves exercises aimed at giving you tools to overcome and work through the problem you are suffering from. Habitual reversal training (HRT) is often used to find alternative behaviors for dermatillomania.
Step 5: Monitoring and evaluation
Treatment is monitored regularly to see how well the therapy is working. If necessary, the treatment plan can be adjusted or renewed.
Step 6: Ending and looking ahead
As the therapy comes to an end, it is time to reflect on the progress made. You will also receive a maintenance plan for how to use the tools and strategies you have learned in the future. It is also important to monitor the results over time.
If you or someone close to you is looking for professional help, don’t hesitate to book a session with one of our licensed psychologists or therapists.
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