I've found a way to quit picking head

[Ms Picky]

I'm a scalp picker and have been since 15 years old (I'm 43 now). It's off and on, but lately it's been really bad. I'm tearing up my poor scalp with open sores, but I love it after a shower when that brand new scab is there to pick off! It's very sick. I never realized this was a form of OCD until I read the posts here; now I realize it probably is. When I'm picking, I'm almost entraced and it feels very comforting. I really don't get it. I don't pick my face (apart from squeezing zits, etc), or body, really, but can't seem to leave my head alone.

Anyway, when it gets really bad, as much as I hate to do it, I get acrylic nails put on. The nails are probably four times thicker than the natural nail and I can't effectively pick, so it works. I just automatically stop because I know I can't get anything. This way, at least my scalp gets a chance to clear up, so I can get a haircut w/o being totally embarrassed and making up stories like, "I went swimming and had a reaction to the chlorine," or "I used a new shampoo that broke my scalp out in sores." Those are my two favorites.

For those of you who pick your face and body, I do believe the acrylic nails will stop you somewhat. It's expensive and you have to go back every 2 weeks, but it does help break the habit temporarily. Unfortunately, for me, once the nails come off, I slowly get back into the picking. I guess I need to check on what meds I can take to help me with this.

Good luck to you all for now. I'm thankful that with these nails on my poor head will get a well deserved rest!

[Observer]

Good idea, do you know if the ones you buy and put on yourself work?

[bluegem]

They do work, but the professionally done ones look nicer

[Icyblackkat]

My personal favourite is to put my hair up into tight ponytails ( I have short hair so I have to have many) when I'm at home, it makes it harder to get at all the scabs on my scalp. I'm usually able to stay away from my scalp when I'm with people. However acrylic nails sound like a great idea, I'll definitly have to try them, I usually just cut my nail really short for my scalp (sadly I have a collection of tools for the rest of my body)

[lolitapop]

try covering your head in a bandana too, or towel...

that works the best for me coz i cant affored acrylic nails



God bless us!