The most important part of skin picking disorder treatment is identifying triggers and finding ways to reduce their impact. Treatment for skin picking disorder can take many forms, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, habit reversal training, or a combination of approaches.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT helps people recognize the thoughts and behaviors causing them to pick their skin and replace them with healthier alternatives. It also helps patients develop problem-solving skills and gain insight into why they have these behaviors in the first place.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): DBT is an evidence-based form of psychotherapy that combines cognitive behavioral principles with mindfulness techniques and other strategies from Eastern philosophy. It helps people manage their emotions and behaviors and develop healthier coping skills.
Habit Reversal Training (HRT): HRT is a form of behavior therapy that focuses on replacing unhealthy behaviors with more constructive ones. It teaches patients to recognize when they are about to engage in skin picking and replace it with an alternate behavior or activity.
Medication: For some people, medication may be an option for treating skin picking disorder. Medications such as antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications can help reduce the urge to pick at the skin.
