Compulsive Skin Picking Disorder

Chronic skin picking is a psychological disorder that manifests through physical behavior resulting in self-mutilation. Compulsive skin picking disorder (CSP) is also referred to as dermatillomania, pathologic or pathological skin picking, neurotic excoriation, and acne excoriee.

Signs and Symptoms

• Compulsive skin picking (CSP) is an unconscious, repetitive behavior resulting in the destruction of the skin and is considered a form of self-mutilation. This behavior usually involves the picking and destruction of healthy skin on the face, but can involve other areas of the body. Skin is usually picked at by an individual with their fingers or fingernails, but other instruments such as tweezers and needles may be used.

Warning

• CSP can lead to a number of physical health-related issues such as scarring, infection, and potential disfigurement.

Mental Conditions that Accompany CSP

• This disorder, also called dermatillomania, typically exists and is associated with several other psychological disorders such as obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), and mood and anxiety disorders.

Diagnosis

• Many individuals do not realize this condition is psychological and not related to the condition of the skin. Diagnosis should be made by a physician or mental health professional.

Treatment

• Once a professional diagnosis of dermatillomania has been made by a qualified health professional, treatment can involve medication and psychotherapy. The goal in psychological treatment is to make the individual aware of unconscious behaviors and modify them.