Everyone's skin has the occasional dry patch or blemish, but for some of us, those itchy, irritating spots can turn into a full-blown case of dermatillomania— AKA compulsive skin picking.
If you find yourself constantly picking at your skin despite your best efforts to stop, you're not alone. In fact, research suggests that this disorder affects up to 4% of the population.
While there's no one-size-fits-all solution for quitting picking, these five tips may help you take control of your urge to pick and get your skin back on track.
We know it's a hard habit to break, but your skin will thank you for it!
Tip #1: Get to the Root of the Problem
If you want to kick your picking habit for good, it's important to first identify what's triggering your urge to pick. For some people, anxiety and stress are the main culprits. Others may start picking in response to a specific skin condition like acne or eczema.
Once you know what's driving your behavior, you can begin to address the underlying issue and find other ways to cope with whatever is triggering your urges.
Tip #2: Keep Your Hands Busy
The next time you feel the urge to start picking, try to occupy your hands with something else instead. This could be as simple as fidgeting with a pen or playing with a piece of jewelry.
You can also try holding an ice cube or a stress ball. The key is finding something that will distract you long enough to stop the urge in its tracks. This tip may sound silly, but it can be surprisingly effective!
Tip #3: Wear Gloves or Bandages
If you find it hard to keep your hands from picking, wearing gloves or bandages can be a helpful way to physically prevent yourself from doing it.
You can even try applying a topical numbing agent like lidocaine before putting on the gloves to help discourage picking. Just be sure to use breathable gloves so your hands don't get too sweaty.
Tip #4: Create a Picking-Free Zone
Designate a spot in your home as a "picking-free zone." This could be your bed, the couch, or even just a spot on the floor.
When you catch yourself picking, make it a point to stop and walk away from the area. This will help you create a physical association between picking and leaving the picking-free zone, making it easier to resist the urge to pick.
Tip 5: Exfoliate with Gleam Body Scrub
Keeping your skin barrier smooth and healthy is important for preventing picking. Gleam Body Scrub's gentle exfoliating action works to unclog pores, remove dead skin cells, and smooth rough patches— making it the perfect ally in your fight against compulsive skin picking.
Plus, the refreshing scent will leave you feeling invigorated and ready to take on the day! In just minutes, your skin will feel softer, smoother, and more hydrated!
So there you have it: five tips to help you stop picking your skin for good. Remember, it takes time and effort to break any habit— but it's worth it when you see the results!
