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Home · Resources · Disorders A–Z · Excoriation (skin-picking) disorder

Obsessive-compulsive and related

Exorcism disorder (scratching the skin)

Scratching or pinching the skin repeatedly to the point of injury, with failed attempts to stop.

Common signs

Wounds or marks from pickingDoes it when tense or boredTries to hide it

Tips

For you

  1. Habit reversal training
  2. Keep your hands busy
  3. Look after your skin to reduce the urge

For family and friends

  1. Don't scold them: offer alternatives for their hands
  2. Help them identify high-risk moments

When to ask for help

  1. If the wounds become infected
  2. If there is a lot of shame or isolation

Guidance test

Answer thinking about the last few weeks. There are 8 questions and you get your result straight away. Your answers are not saved or sent.

0 of 8
1. I repeatedly pick or scratch my skin
2. I cause wounds or marks
3. I do it when I'm tense or bored
4. Sometimes I do it without realising
5. I have tried to stop without success
6. I try to hide the marks
7. I feel ashamed
8. It takes up time every day

Free resources

Downloadable PDF sheetSigns, tips and resources to print or saveFull article: Trichotillomania and repetitive habitsFree resource from Clínica VivaldiAll our free guidesFree resource from Clínica Vivaldi

Related disorders

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)Obsessive-compulsive and relatedBody dysmorphic disorderObsessive-compulsive and relatedHoarding disorderObsessive-compulsive and relatedTrichotillomania (hair-pulling)Obsessive-compulsive and related

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Reviewed by María Teresa Fernández Vicente, health psychologist and neuropsychologist (registration no. CV17304), in November 2026. Educational information prepared by the Clínica Vivaldi team based on the DSM-5-TR classification. It does not replace a professional assessment and cannot be used to diagnose.