Etiology (Biopsychosocial Model)

Biological: Similar neural circuits to OCD.

Psychological: Stress relief, shame, negative affect regulation.

Social: Skin-focused grooming culture, peer perception.

• Symptoms & Diagnosis (Mnemonic: PICKED):

P - Persistent skin picking

I - Impairment in functioning

C - Can’t stop despite effort

K - Known triggers (anxiety, boredom)

E - Excludes substance/medical causes

D - Distress and damage from lesions

Treatment

HRT and CBT

SSRIs (e.g., fluoxetine)

Dermatological support and psychoeducation ency.