Excoriation (skin-picking) disorder is a new condition added to the DSM-5-TR.
At the time of publication, the DSM-5-TR estimated that between 2% to 4% of the population could be diagnosed with this condition, though more recent statistics suggest the numbers may be closer to 2% to 3%.
The resulting problems may include medical issues such as infections, skin lesions, scarring, and physical disfigurement.
The DSM-5-TR states excoriation (skin-picking) disorder is characterized by constant and recurrent picking at your skin, resulting in skin lesions.
The face, arms, and hands tend to be the most common areas affected, though any part of the body can receive focus.
If you live with excoriation (skin-picking) disorder, it’s likely you’ve tried many times to stop. You may also use makeup, clothing, or other means in an attempt to conceal the marks from picking behaviors.
Like other mental health conditions, excoriation results in distress and functional impairment. You might experience a sense of embarrassment, shame, or loss of control of this condition.