Most people struggle with acne, one of the most bothersome skin conditions. Acne can result in various conditions and behaviors, including popping pimples in the mirror and trying every trick to eliminate it, but one state goes a step beyond that.
The condition is called acne excoriaée, and it can be pretty serious. Keep your skin healthy by following these tips.
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Acne Excoriee: What Is It?
Dr. Azza Halim, MD, a board-certified multi-specialist physician, says acne excoriee is a skin condition in which people compulsively pick, scratch, or squeeze acne or pimples, resulting in scars, scabs, and pigmentation. Adolescent females are more likely to suffer from this condition, which is usually triggered by depression, anxiety, OCD, body dysmorphia, or emotional stress.
You might not believe it, but pickers’ acne is more common than you think. It is due to underreported data and not well-understood concepts. The 2020 Journal of Psychiatric Research reported that 3.1 percent of females had a lifetime skin-picking disorder.
What To Look For When You Have Acne Excoriee
Boda says it’s caused by repetitive picking at the skin over time. Dr. Halim adds that acne excoriaée is a habit people develop over time. She said, “Trait disorders, learned behaviors, life stressors—all can be contributing factors.”
Acne pickers can be hard to tell when their behavior crosses a line into potentially unhealthy territory. Dr. Halim says that keeping your skin moist isn’t good for you since it leads to infections. The experts recommend consulting a dermatologist or esthetician if you unnecessarily pick your skin.
Image Credit: Pexels/Anna Nekrashevich
Is Acne Excoriee Treatable?
The treatment includes self-management, proper skin cleansing to prevent infections, therapy, and behavioral modification. Dr. Halim notes that the psychological part of it can come and go depending on the person’s life and triggers.
Boda said, “My best advice for people who suffer from acne excoriée is to remove anything that poses as a trigger, such as a close-up mirror or at-home extraction tools.” Boda also suggests wearing gloves or mittens, keeping your nails short, getting a fidget toy, journaling to hold yourself accountable, and icing your skin if you feel the urge.