Meet the Experts
Why Do We Pick Our Skin?
Another reason you may occasionallyskin pickor scratch is a healing wound oracnelesion.
As they may feel itchy or painful, and it’s often a normal response to the irritation.
OHLAMOUR STUDIO/ Stocksy
Psychologist Sanam Hafeez says it can even be satisfaction-driven.
Another common reason for picking is due to concentration.
“Skin or hair picking/pulling is problematic when it becomes asource of stressor anxiety relief,” she says.
Hafeez adds that were all prone to picking our faces.
The biggest differentiator is the feelings associated with the habit.
A psychological disorder is associated with a compulsion to pick/pull that can cause significant disruption to one’s life.
It may give you clarity and keep you focused while stimulating creativity.
Also, avoid spendingtoomuch time staring at the bathroom mirror, especially right after a hot shower.
Sotreating acneor other underlying conditions is a component of treatment for skin or hair picking.
It can be helpful especially in more mild cases or for the occasional picker.
Why not try a meditation app or an online class that best fits you?
Over-the-counter supplements might also help.
Rae’s Destress Dietary Supplement Vegan Capsules, containAshwagandha, a traditional herb in Indian, orAyurvedic, medicine.
Farber agrees that nourished skin minimizes irritation and lesions.
After the damage is done, calming and soothing masks may also help fight irritation and inflammation.
For those who pick at their acne, Nazarian recommendsskin patches.
Cleveland Clinic.Can’t stop picking your skin?
how to break the cycle.
Updated December 2, 2019.
2012;34(3):255-262. doi:10.4103/0253-7176.106022
