9 Strategies To Stop Picking Your Skin This Summer

9 Ways to Stop Picking Your Skin This Summer
As summer approaches and the weather gets hotter, many of us are eager to wear shorter sleeves and enjoy the sun. However, this often leads to increased skin exposure and, unfortunately, a greater temptation to pick at our skin. In today's article, we'll explore nine strategies to help you stop picking your skin this summer. These tips have been helpful to many of my clients, and I hope they will be just as beneficial for you.
BFRB School, our online course for skin picking and hair pulling:
www.cbtschool.com/bfrb-school
Understanding Skin Picking
Before we dive into the strategies, it's important to understand what skin picking is. Clinically known as dermatillomania, skin picking is a type of body-focused repetitive behavior (BFRB). People with this condition may pick at their skin, arms, lips, scalp, nails, and even more sensitive areas like the pubic region. It's similar to trichotillomania, which involves hair pulling.
It's crucial to note that skin picking and hair pulling are not forms of self-harm. People who pick their skin are not trying to hurt themselves or seek attention. They often do it because they are either understimulated (bored) or overstimulated (anxious or overwhelmed). Understanding this can provide insight into the strategies we'll discuss.
Strategy #1: Awareness Logs
Awareness logs are a powerful tool in any stage of recovery. By logging every time you have the urge to pick, noting how much you picked, where, and for how long, you gain a better understanding of how this condition impacts your life. Many people find that having to document their behavior reduces the frequency of picking.
Awareness logs are a key component of habit reversal training, a cognitive-behavioral therapy technique specifically designed for BFRBs.
Strategy #2: Keep Your Hands Busy
Engaging in a competing response can help divert your urge to pick. Competing responses might include using fidget toys, holding a stone, or playing with soothing textures. You can find many affordable fidgets online or at dollar stores.
Create a basket of tactile items that you can use to keep your hands busy. Place these items around your house, in your car, and at work to ensure they are easily accessible when you need them.
Strategy #3: Create a Skincare Routine
A good skincare routine can help prevent irritation and dryness that might tempt you to pick. However, it's important not to overdo it, as too much attention to your skin can also trigger picking. Consult with your doctor to develop a routine that keeps your skin healthy without exacerbating your condition.
Strategy #4: Use Physical Barriers
Using physical barriers (called habit blockers) like gloves, band-aids, or long sleeves can prevent you from touching and picking at your skin. Some people find that keeping their nails short or wearing fake nails can reduce the tactile satisfaction of picking. Identify what works best for you and use these barriers consistently.
Strategy #5: Self-Compassion
Practicing self-compassion is vital. Beating yourself up for picking only increases negative emotions like shame and guilt, which can lead to more picking. Instead, practice radical acceptance and reduce self-criticism. This approach can help you feel more motivated and improve your overall well-being.
Strategy #6: Manage Stress and Anxiety
Managing stress and anxiety is crucial, as many people pick their skin to cope with these feelings. Cognitive-behavioral skills can help address faulty cognitions and behaviors that exacerbate stress. Consider taking an online course, like Overcoming Anxiety and Panic, to learn effective stress management techniques.
Strategy #7: Establish a Support System
Having a support system can make a significant difference. Whether it's family, friends, or online support groups like those at BFRB.org, having people to check in with can help you feel less alone and more accountable. Some people find it helpful to text or call a support person when they feel the urge to pick.
Strategy #8: Stay Hydrated and Healthy
Good nutrition and hydration can impact your skin's health. Speak with your doctor about how to maintain healthy skin through diet and hydration. Additionally, consider looking into over-the-counter medications like N-acetylcysteine, which has been shown to help with skin picking. Always consult with your doctor before starting any new supplement.
Strategy #9: Set Realistic Goals and Track Progress
Set achievable goals and track your progress. Instead of aiming to completely stop picking, focus on gradually reducing the behavior by a small percentage each week. Tracking your progress helps you see improvement and identify what strategies are working. Remember, small steps lead to significant changes.