What is dermatillomania?

What is dermatillomania?

Dermatillomania is a mental health condition where a person compulsively picks or scratches their skin, causing injuries or scarring. Also known as excoriation disorder or skin-picking disorder, this condition falls under the category of obsessive-compulsive disorders (OCDs). When it leads to significant scarring and injuries, this condition can severely affect a person’s mental health, well-being and quality of life.

This condition (pronounced derm-ah-till-oh-main-ee-ah) gets its name from three Greek words:

• Derma: skin.
• Tillo: pulling (or picking).
• Mania: excessive behavior or activity.