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1497650 tn?1289233125

Skin-picking/scratching...OCD?

For years, I've had this OCD-like symptom of being compelled to pick at my skin-- at scabs, acne, dry skin, etc.  I know that it's gross, and I know that lots of people pick at their acne to some extent, but I do so more than most people.  It's an obsessive thing that I feel like I can't really help.  Over the years, I've obtained many scars from this awful habit.  I'm pretty ashamed.  I hope the scars will heal someday, but I don't have much hope of that.  I feel like I have to cover up my whole back.  
I've also started scratching at any ingrown hairs I have on my legs, so my legs have begun to scar as well.  Wearing a skirt?  Forget about it.  

I have other mild OCD habits that I've managed to get under control, so could this possibly be part of OCD as well?  I seem to do it more when I'm anxious.  How can I stop this?  It's ruining my body.
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Avatar universal
This is more common than you might realize as I have known a few people that has this. I was thinking as far as the scaring goes, maybe you could try the mederma or any other type of scaring medicine that helps to diminished scars. Good Luck :)
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1497650 tn?1289233125
Aww.  I'm so sorry that your daughter has the same thing!  Thanks for sharing, though...It does make me feel less odd to know that someone else does the same thing.  I'd never heard of anyone else having this!  Like your daughter, I usually need something like drawing/coloring to keep my hands busy.  I will most definitely let you know if I find a solution to this.  
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1273459 tn?1284070870
If you get an answer; will you tell me? I have a 10 year old daughter who does this to extreme as well. She has to carry band aid in her backpack. For years we had her wear long sleeves to avoid it. Then her 3rd grade teacher let her draw during down time. Everyone else had to just sit and fidget.  To you keep your emotions to yourself? She does. Always seems fine, even though you know she cant be fine for years.

Sorry for your difficulties, I hope you get an answer.
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