Can't Stop, Can You Relate!? =(

[Sarah2416]

I have this problem where I can't seem to stop picking my face for some reason. I have been doing so for a couple years now. I usually go in the bathroom, wash my face, and then spend an hour or so picking at it. Sometimes I tell my self, ok, I know how this is going to look after I pick at it and then I don't for a couple mins than before you know it I start back up doing it. It's like the curiousness or WANTING to over rides that you don't want to pick. I don't have acne or any problems like that I just pick at little pores and then they turn into bigger pimples that I hate. I feel so ugly when I get them but then I think... I'm doing it to MY SELF. I don't know why I do when I know what the outcome of picking my face will be. Scarring, redness, dryness, bigger zits etc. Sometimes I think if I pick my face maybe it'll go away faster... or not be AS noticable ( when in reality nothing WAS noticable ). I've went a couple weeks with out picking and the results are amazing! Smooth skin and perfect complexion! THEN once I see a little pore I pick at it and then before you know it, my whole face is beating red.

I have tried cutting my nails short so it's harder to pick but I always seem to start picking at it anyway. The only actual time that I don't pick is when I am not at home. But as everyone knows home is where you belong and so that's where I am mostly. I'd say I pick my face 6 out of the 7 nights. It's bad and I need help. Can anyone relate??? Or does anyone have any good suggestions to help me stop?? Even though it's hard!

[hoppe]

Hi Sarah

Welcome to the board.

I think most people here can relate to you - we pick without wanting to and often without reason. It is sad, but I think you can get better. You have already started to fight this compulsion by coming here and doing other things such as keeping your nails short. I think becoming conscious about your problem is the first step in the right direction. You also know how beautiful your face can look when you leave it alone and I think that could be a great motivation for you.

I hope you can find some helpful tips on this board - such as candle light in the bathroom, gloves etc. . Some people have great success beating this on their own. However, compulsive skin picking is a disorder, and it might be you are not able to get better by yourself - therefore you should consider getting somewhat more professional help such as seeing a therapist. Some people also benefit from taking an anti-depressant or anti-psychotic drug, you could consider these options. And please, do not feel ashamed of seeking help - CSP is a disorder and not your fault.

Please, continue to write here and let us know how you are doing.

hoppe

[abby]

hey, im new to this site but can understand your story. i have diagnosed severe compulsive skin picking, i have no other complications (no OCD, BPD etc). i've learned that there is NOTHING to be ashamed of. the more open you can be about it the more it helps - it forces you to confront the issue - by explaining it to others you help explain and understand it yourself! tell close friends about it and how they can help you without making you feel ashamed or embarrased, i cant stand my parents mentioning it, it makes it worse, but my boyfriend subtly pulls my hand away to hold it, thats ok, it dosent rub in that i have a problem, but i know he is supporting me. find what works for you. mainly try and build your confidence. dont focus on how beautiful you will be, think about how beautiful you are, focus on bits you like. try and go out without as much make up, when you realise that people arn't staring you will realise you arnt hideous and that it's not as bad as you imagine, the shame you feel can be insiration to stop too. try covering mirrors, drastic but effective. clench you fists and destract yourself when you get the urge. dont blame yourself and try not to feel guilty. good luck!