Dermatillomania is an impulse control disorder characterized by the urge to pick at one's own skin, often to the extent that damage is caused.

This is her story.


I have now diagnosed myself with dermatillomania.

I am beyond embarrassed by this disorder. I cannot look at myself in the mirror naked as I am in disbelief about what I have done to my body, my skin. I am hideous and gross.

I am very desperate to stop this behaviour. I do it all the time. The only time I am not picking is when I have caused so much damage to every scab or sore it hurts to touch it or is bleeding. Then as soon as it has healed slightly, just enough for it to feel itchy, I scratch it all off again.

My entire body looks like I have a very severe case of chicken pox, only grosser. I have seen a dermatologist in the past who has given me steroid injections directly into the sores so they would heal quicker. I am surprised he never mentioned this illness known as dermatillomania.

I apply a prescription steroid cream daily and am not getting any better. I am in constant pain due to the open sores that I won't let heal. I have also brought this issue to the attention of my psychiatrist who has prescribed medicine to help with the compulsion. It has now been a week since the medication change and there is no change in my behaviour.

I need to stop!

What is wrong with me?

by Hostage; Published on February 12, 2013
Filed under: Self-Image,  Dermatillomania
4 Comments