Skin-picking

[butterflylover]

Originally Posted by tellus

Sorry to bump this up, but I'm still struggling. My anxiety was really high today (holiday season in retail), and I started picking at my face. If I could even just limit the picking to my legs it'd be better.

Sorry to hear that Did ya check out those sites I gave ya links to?

Take care!

[reducedtozero]

im a guy and ive had this issue with my scalp, along with serious teeth grinding ( i try to wear a mouthguard to sleep every nght)

[bellyring]

I try to shave as little as possible too, because the little ingrown hairs, and bumps are huge temptation. I also shave downwards on my legs when I do shave ( if you go both up and down the shave is MUCH smoother), because then there way fewer ingrown hairs. I will pick almost anywhere on my body, but I tyry to avoid the places that can be seen. (eg. face) I will even enlist my boyfriend to get things I can't reach. I have quite a few scars. One huge crater (about 2 cm wide) on my calf, and a few at the bottom of my neck, some on my ass, and a few on my arms. It sucks. I am so glad I am not alone in this!! My mom did it too, I mean I saw the scabs but never knew what caused them until I started doing it.

The thing is I feel so zen when I'm doing it and really don't want to stop. And then later I feel like an idiot. It feels so necessary, at the time.

[TiredMama]

I am a scalp picker but I do know someone who picks their face. Currently she is on tons of antibiotics for a severe staph infection. She has to wear gauze over the sores and wear gloves when she changes her daughter's diaper.

I have been picking at my head since I was about 12 years old. It isn't bad anymore but there was a point in time when I wasn't on medication and I would pick until it bled.

[shutterbug]

Originally Posted by bellyring

The thing is I feel so zen when I'm doing it and really don't want to stop..... It feels so necessary, at the time.

this is exactly what i wanted to point out from something i thought of yesterday....for me anyway, i have decided that my skin-picking and scratching is mostly related somehow to meditation for me. When i am in active picking mode that's when i become SO focused that it's the only time i experience what i believe to be what real meditation must be like.

You see, i haven't ever really been able to meditate b/c i can't keep my mind focused enough (same reason i'm always late to everything, but that's a whole diff story). When i'm more stressed than usual....that is when i feel more strongly pulled to pick and scratch and you will see my face torn to shreds....so i have come to believe that my picking is my attempts to cope with my anxiety by going into a sort of 'trance' where i sometimes work out my inner demons.

Wellbutrin....i've been off it and haven't been taking my mood stabalizer properly in a little over a month and my picking has gotten REALLY bad again....i often sit for hours tearing up my face while watching t.v. or driving to assignments or even trying to fall asleep.

i hate it.......i have bad enough self-esteem issues about my looks. i don't need all this also.

just wanted to add that

[shutterbug]

oh....and i found this neat article on one of those site links posted by ButterflyLover so i thought i'd copy and paste it....it's kind of long:



Skin-Picking & Nail-Biting

SKIN PICKING AND NAIL BITING: RELATED HABITS

By Fred Penzel, Ph.D.

Although this newsletter has always been limited to discussing matters related to trichotillomania, I would like to introduce a slightly different but related topic. It may come as no surprise that there are other types of problem behaviors quite similar to trich in a number of ways. I am referring specifically to compulsive skin picking and nail biting (also known as onychophagia). These may not sound serious, but neither does hair pulling to some people. Since I have met quite a number of people who have one of these problems in addition to trich, I now routinely screen for them.

What I am referring to is not the kind of little bits of rough nail or cuticle that everyone picks at or bites from time to time, nor is it the occasional blemish that people might squeeze or pick. These nail-biters continually bite their nails past the nail bed and their cuticles until they bleed and are constantly walking around with red, sore, and sometimes infected fingers. Those who pick their skin compulsively have their faces and bodies covered, at times, with red sores and scabs known as acne excoria, a self-inflicted skin disorder that resembles acne. The smallest pimple or blemish must be opened and picked at or squeezed, either with the fingers or another implement such as tweezers, needles, pins, toothpicks, etc. Numerous scars are often the result.

Just as those with trich wear hats, scarves, wigs and makeup, nail-biters keep their hands behind their backs or in their pockets, and skin pickers wear makeup, put on clothing that covers bad areas, apply Band-Aids or just stay indoors when looking their worst. They feel the same shame and social embarrassment and experience that out-of-control feelings at times. They, too, wonder why they can't stop and they also question whether or not they are crazy.

Another similarity between these problems and trichotillomania is that they seem to happen when people are in one of two modes. Some do it in an automatic way, as if they are in a trance and not really thinking about what they are doing. Usually, they are involved in some other activity at the same time such as reading, talking on the phone, working at the computer, watching TV, etc. For others, the deliberate picking or biting is their main activity at the time, and they will frequently interrupt other activities to engage in it.

There is also a strong commonality seen in the various purposes behind these three problems. At the most basic level, they satisfy an urge. Many report an almost uncontrollable feeling of needing to do them. Pulling, picking or biting also seem to deliver a pleasurable or relaxed sensation. When sufferers feel stressed, doing these things has a kind of soothing effect on their nervous systems, and reduces levels of stimulation. On the other hand, when they are bored or inactive, they seems to provide a needed level of stimulation to the nervous system. This probably accounts for why so many people who dislike doing them find it so hard to stop. It simply "feels good" at the time, no matter what the consequences. These behaviors may really be all about self-regulation in certain individuals whose nervous system may not be doing a very good job of regulating itself (see the article "A Sensory Regulation Theory of Trichotillomania," on this website).

Another factor also seems to be at work for a subgroup of people. This involves a kind of compulsive perfectionism. Some hair-pullers must pull "special" hairs that feel "different" or as if they don't belong due to their look or feel. In the same way, nail-biters will often try to bite off rough-feeling or broken bits of cuticle or nail sticking out in order to make their nails feel smooth and look "perfect" or regular. Skin-pickers will stand for hours in front of mirrors closely examining their faces or other body areas for the tiniest bump, irregularity or enlarged pore and then try to eliminate it, or drain it, in hopes of achieving a 'perfectly' clear complexion. Paradoxically, all of those who pursue such goals always end up looking much worse in spite of their efforts, as a result of the damage that they do to themselves.

What all these similarities seem to point to is that these three behaviors are probably all different aspects of the same problem.Some have theorized that theret may be that the same out-of-control grooming mechanism in the brain underlies them all. My own theory is that there may be some type of dysfunction of a brain mechanism that regulates levels of stimulation within the central nervous system, and that these behaviors represent an attempt to control these internal stimulation levels externally. People seem to pull, pick, or bite when thery are either overstimulated (dus to stress or excitement) or understimulated (due to boredom or inactivity). Many similar behaviors can be observed in animals who are kept in confined or unstimulating environments, or who live in stressful conditions.

There are many that now believe that compulsive hair pulling, skin picking, and nail biting form a subgroup of what is becoming known as the Obsessive- Compulsive Disorder Spectrum. OCD has been previously been regarded as only a single disorder. It may in fact represent a range of related disorders, including classic OCD, Body Dysmorphic Disorder, Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia, Trichotillomania, Onychophagia, Compulsive Skin Picking, Compulsive Nail Biting, and Tourette's Syndrome. Recently, a new term has been coined for these problems - Body-focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs). As with trichotillomania, skin picking and nail biting are considered to originate within the chemistry of the brain, and may well have an underlying genetic cause.

In my own practice, I have seen quite a few hair pullers who also bite their nails and/or pick at their skin. While it has never been surveyed systematically, there may be many out there with multiple symptoms. Interestingly, quite a number of people don't realize that their several problems may be connected until it is pointed out.

As with trich, these other two disorders appear to respond best to medication and behavioral therapy. Medication should never be considered an end in itself, but a tool to help you do the therapy. Drugs which remedy these problems do not work instantly- It may take several weeks before you see any results. They also may not work perfectly. Usually, 60-70% improvement from a medication is considered a good result. The medications mainly used to treat picking or biting problems are the same group as those used for Trich and OCD. This group is made up of the latest and most potent antidepressants, and includes Anafranil, Prozac, Zoloft, Paxil, Luvox, Celexa, Lexapro, Serzone and Effexor. Sometimes, these drugs may also be augmented with other medications, most often small amounts of the same medications used to treat schizophrenia. These would include Risperdal, Zyprexa, Seroquel, Geodon, and Abilify. Please note that this does not imply that people with BFRBs are in any way psychotic. Keep in mind that no one drug is best, since there is no drug works for everyone. You have to work your way through them in a trial-and-error way, until you find the one that is most effective for you. One further caution on medications is that they do not necessarily work for everyone.

One other option might be to try the B-vitamin inositol. I have seen this work in a number of cases. It seems to reduce the urge to pull or pick. It is broken down by the body into two secondary neurotransmitter chemicals that enhance the activity of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin, is a brain transmitter that may be implicated in OCD and related disorders. Inositol is usually taken in large quantities, but will not build up to toxic levels in your system, as it is a water soluble vitamin. Side effects can include gas and diarrhea, but usually, they will either quickly pass, or not occur at all. The vitamin is taken in powered form, and is built up to a maximum dosage of 18 grams over a six week period. Some people require the maximum, but some can get by with less. (You can get more detailed information about this in another article listed on this website. The title is "Inositol and Trichotillomania.") Inositol can also be safely used to augment antidepressant medication. The only exception is that it cannot be taken together with Lithium. Children generally take smaller doses than adults.

Therapy for these disorders consists of two parts. The first, is Habit Reversal Training (HRT), a four-step process which teaches you awareness of your habits, how to relax, how to breathe and center yourself, and to perform a competing and opposing muscle response. (I have described this technique in a previous issue of TLC's IN TOUCH, in an article on cognitive/behavioral therapy for trich, which I'm sure you can get copies of.) It can be extremely useful if practiced daily and stubbornly, as it must become as automatic as the habit you are aiming to eliminate. These are stubborn problems for two reasons. First, you have probably rehearsed the unwanted behaviors hundreds or even thousands of times. It is important to accept that they will not simply be overcome in a few days or weeks. Second, you are fighting the fact that they feel good to do, and provide much short range satisfaction and either stimulation or soothing. It takes time and a good deal of effort to master, but I believe it is worth it. Research shows it to be an effective technique.

The second part is known as Stimulus Control (SC). Skin picking and nail biting are a complex behaviors, with many different inputs. SC is a behavioral treatment that seeks to help sufferers first identify, and then eliminate, avoid, or change the particular activities, environmental factors, mood states, or circumstances that have become associated with, and that trigger picking or pulling. The goal here, is to consciously control these triggers that lead to the undesirable behaviors, and to create new learned connections between the urges new non-destructive behaviors. A much more in-depth description of these treatments can be found in my two books - "Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders: A Complete Guide to Getting Well and Staying Well," and "The Hair Pulling Problem: A Complete Guide to Trichotillomania." Both are published by the Oxford University Press, and you can find out more about them at Dr. Penzels OCD book and Dr. Penzel's Trich Book ..

Even if you have more than one of these problems, don't despair. They can be overcome if you have the motivation. More important is learning to "de-stigmatize" yourself. You are not crazy, helpless, morally weak or totally out of control, even though you may feel like some or all of these things at times. Once you get down to realizing that you are just a person who simply happens to have a problem, you can start to make some serious progress. Skin picking and nail biting are chronic problems, so there currently isn't a 'cure', but you can find a recovery if you are willing to work at it.

[TiredMama]

Thanks for sharing that shutter

[Toomutch]

I am so glad I found this thread, I thought I was in a league of my own. I am going for a haircut today and am embarrased about the sores on my head that I keep picking at. Every night if there is something on my back shoulders hands arms or head, I pick at it. I do it wihout evern knowing. The funny thing is that I do not pick at my face.
Anyhoo, I'm glad I found other like me.

[unbroken]

I have mild OCD and a mild case of skin picking, no bipolar at all though. I've been to plenty of psychiatrists and I would know. Sometimes I wish I were bipolar, such fun to be around, but no I get the dreaded anxiety/depression "Eeyore" diagnoses, LOL! I have a lot of anxiety, I am 46 and have only gone into a rage once in my life and I can certainly understand how that happened (long story) but I'll spare you the details. I remember picking as a child, it started with mosquito bites, I couldn't stand any little imperfection on my body and wanted it gone, ya know? I have acrylic nails and hair extensions and do not pick at them. However if any little thing happens to an extension or a nail, I am at the salon pronto. I'm not sure if this sharing helped you but just know that you are not alone. I'm thinking of ya....hang in there girl!


YouTube - jessica sierra unbroken

[daydream]

Wow, interesting discussion here.

I realize this thread is old, but I wanted to share some information. While skin-picking and other picking CAN be a symptom of OCD, it also can be a symptom of Stereotypic Movement Disorder. Google it and see if it rings true for you. This disorder involves one or more of various rhythmic behaviors such as picking skin, picking nose, waving, clapping, banging head, twirling hair, rocking.... it is very similar to Tourette's Syndrome, but the main differences are that the behaviors are rhythmic and may continue for several minutes or hours at a time (tourette's tics are more irregular and shorter periods of time). In Stereotypic Movement Disorder people often enjoy what they're doing in a way, like feeling calmer when they do the activity, as opposed to people with Tourette's who usually are distressed by their tics which may include head bobbing, grunting, strange blinking, clearing the throat, coughing, sniffing, etc in short bursts.

I am not trying to diagnose anyone here, but after reading about the picking, if anyone wishes to keep searching for an answer, I think Stereotypic Movement Disorder is definitely a strong possibility. Also, if you google Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder you can compare symptoms. There are more criteria to make a diagnosis for each of these problems, and what I've written above is just minimal information. And of course it's best to follow up with that information and see a qualified professional. One can go through a lot of distress over an incorrect self-diagnosis. I've just found that out the hard way.

[thisisnotmylife]

This is very interesting. My husband is a vicodin addict with ADD. He is on adderrall and suboxone. He picks at his face until it bleeds. When I ask him, he always would reply he had an ingrown hair he just had to get. Whenever we drive in the car together he will pick at his face the entire car ride when driving. He thought maybe it was caused from the adderal but maybe it is anxiety or OCD.
Anyway - thanks everyone for sharing!

[historyteach]

Interesting info, daydream!
Thanks for sharing!

Shalom!

[sunrise1]

Once again, I know this thread is quite old, but I am unbelieveably relieved to have found it!!! I've always been a "picker and a puller"... hair, rough spots... etc... when I was younger I would pick at my scalp (and once while my family was attending a show... I can only imagine what the people in back of me thought).

OTOH, it's disturbing to find out I have (or have had) yet another disorder. In no particular order:

hair pulling
cuticle picking
skin picking
anorexia
bulimia
alcoholism

... It's a miracle I've survived to 41!

Thanks to all of you for your input. You've helped me learn more about myself and it's putting another piece of the puzzle together.