Acne Excoriée: Understanding This Type of Acne Induced by Skin Picking
Acne is a common skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by the development of pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, and other lesions on the face, neck, back, and chest. Acne can have a profound impact on an individual’s self-esteem and quality of life. Unfortunately, some people may develop a type of acne called acne excoriée, which is induced by excessive skin picking.
In this article, we will explore acne excoriée in detail, including its causes, symptoms, and treatment options. We will also discuss how to prevent this type of acne and why seeking professional help may be necessary.
What is Acne Excoriée?
Acne excoriée is a condition characterized by the presence of acne lesions that have been scratched, picked, or manipulated. This condition is more common in women, and typically occurs in late adolescence or early adulthood. It is thought that the desire to 'clean' or remove the acne lesions is a contributing factor to this type of acne.
The picking or scratching of acne lesions can damage the skin and create open wounds. These wounds may become infected, exacerbate existing acne, or lead to scarring. The skin may also become hyperpigmented or darkened due to inflammation and post-inflammatory changes.
Causes of Acne Excoriée
Acne excoriée is typically caused by the compulsive picking, scratching, or manipulation of acne lesions. The urge to pick or scratch acne may stem from anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, or other psychological factors. Individuals with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or other mental health issues may also be at a higher risk of developing acne excoriée.
Symptoms of Acne Excoriée
The symptoms of acne excoriée include acne lesions that have been picked, scratched, or manipulated. These lesions may be open wounds, scabs, or have a crusted appearance. The skin may also be hyperpigmented or darkened due to inflammation and post-inflammatory changes.
Individuals with acne excoriée may also experience feelings of guilt, shame, or embarrassment related to their skin-picking behaviors. Other psychological symptoms may include anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem.
Treatment Options for Acne Excoriée
The first step in treating acne excoriée is to seek the help of a dermatologist or other healthcare professional. They can help assess the severity of the condition and recommend the appropriate treatment options.
Treatment options may include:
1. Medications: A dermatologist may prescribe topical or oral medications to help manage acne lesions and prevent scarring. Retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and antibiotics are some of the common medications used.
2. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT is a form of psychotherapy that can help individuals with acne excoriée learn to identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors. It can also help individuals develop coping strategies to manage the urge to pick or scratch their acne lesions.
3. Support groups: Joining a support group can provide individuals with acne excoriée with a safe space to share their experiences and connect with others who may be going through similar struggles.
4. Professional counseling: If underlying mental health conditions are contributing to acne excoriée, seeking the help of a mental health professional may be necessary.
Preventing Acne Excoriée
Preventing acne excoriée requires a multifaceted approach. Some of the strategies that can help include:
1. Avoiding touching or picking acne lesions.
2. Regularly washing the face and other affected areas with a gentle cleanser.
3. Using non-comedogenic (non-pore-clogging) skincare products.
4. Managing stress and anxiety through relaxation techniques or mindfulness practices.
5. Seeking the help of a dermatologist or other healthcare professional if acne lesions do not improve with over-the-counter treatments.
Conclusion
Acne excoriée is a type of acne that is induced by skin picking, and can have a significant impact on an individual’s life. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for this condition is the first step in managing it effectively. By seeking the help of a dermatologist or healthcare professional, individuals with acne excoriée can receive the appropriate treatment and support to improve their overall well-being. Remember, finding healthy ways to manage stress and anxiety, and avoiding the urge to pick or scratch acne lesions can go a long way in preventing future breakouts.