Acne Excoriée: The Serious Condition Caused by Picking at Pimples

Acne is a common skin condition that affects almost everyone at some point in their lives. While it can be frustrating and difficult to manage, it is usually a temporary problem that can be treated with over-the-counter or prescription medications. However, some people take their acne treatment into their own hands and engage in a behavior known as acne excoriée. This condition involves compulsively picking at pimples, which can lead to serious skin damage, scarring, and emotional distress. In this blog post, we will explore the causes and symptoms of acne excoriée, as well as some tips for preventing and treating this damaging condition.

What Is Acne Excoriée?

Acne excoriée, also known as picker’s acne, is a skin condition that occurs when a person compulsively picks at their acne lesions. The constant picking can lead to the development of open sores, scabs, and scars on the affected areas of the skin. This condition is often seen in individuals who have acne and an underlying psychological disorder such as anxiety, depression, or obsessive-compulsive disorder. The physical damage caused by acne excoriée can be severe and may lead to permanent scarring or hyperpigmentation. Treatment for acne excoriée involves a combination of addressing the underlying psychological condition, such as therapy or medication, as well as treating the acne itself with topical or oral medications. It’s important for individuals who are struggling with this condition to seek professional help to prevent further damage to their skin and improve their mental health.

How To Know You Have Acne Excoriée?

Acne excoriée is a skin condition that is characterized by the compulsive picking at acne lesions, leading to the development of open sores, scabs, and scars. Here are some signs and symptoms that can help you identify if you have acne excoriée:

1. Open sores and scabs: If you have acne excoriée, you may notice open sores and scabs on your skin. These lesions are often the result of picking at acne bumps, blackheads, or whiteheads.
2. Visible scars and hyperpigmentation: The constant picking and scratching can lead to the development of scars and hyperpigmentation on the affected areas of the skin. These scars may be raised or depressed and can be permanent.
3. Increased acne breakouts: People with acne excoriée often have more acne breakouts than those without the condition. This is because the constant picking can lead to the spread of bacteria and inflammation on the skin.
4. Anxiety or depression: Acne excoriée is often seen in individuals who have underlying psychological conditions such as anxiety, depression, or obsessive-compulsive disorder. If you have these conditions, you may be more prone to picking at your skin.
5. Difficulty stopping the behavior: People with acne excoriée often find it challenging to stop picking at their skin. They may feel a sense of relief when picking, but this is often short-lived and leads to feelings of guilt and shame.

If you suspect that you have acne excoriée, it’s essential to seek professional help. A dermatologist can diagnose the condition and provide you with appropriate treatment options. Additionally, if you have underlying psychological conditions, seeking the help of a mental health professional can help you address the root cause of your picking behavior and improve your mental health. With proper treatment, it’s possible to manage acne excoriée and prevent further damage to your skin.

Can Acne Excoriée Be Treated?

Yes, acne excoriée can be treated, but it requires a combination of approaches to address both the skin picking behavior and the underlying acne. Here are some treatment options that can be effective:

1. Behavioral therapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of therapy that can be helpful for people with acne excoriée. CBT focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors, including the urge to pick at the skin.
2. Medication: If you have underlying anxiety, depression, or obsessive-compulsive disorder, medication may be helpful in managing these conditions and reducing the urge to pick at your skin.
3. Topical medications: There are several topical medications available that can help reduce acne breakouts and inflammation. These include retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, and salicylic acid. Your dermatologist can recommend the best option for you.
4. Oral medications: In some cases, oral medications such as antibiotics or hormonal therapies may be necessary to control acne breakouts.
5. Skin care: Gentle skin care is essential for people with acne excoriée. Use mild cleansers and avoid abrasive scrubs or harsh chemicals that can further irritate the skin.
6. Support groups: Joining a support group can be helpful for people with acne excoriée. Sharing experiences with others who have the same condition can provide a sense of community and reduce feelings of isolation.

It’s important to remember that treating acne excoriée takes time and patience. It’s essential to work with a dermatologist and mental health professional to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses both the skin picking behavior and underlying conditions. With the right approach, it’s possible to manage acne excoriée and prevent further damage to your skin.