Okay, this is quite embarrassing so I was wondering for a while whether to post this. When I'm stressed I'll pick my skin, bite my nails and scratch at my back, chest and scalp. I do cover it up with makeup but recently I think I've gone a bit too far because the patches are really red on my face and my back and chest are too (also a lot of scabbing). I wash myself with antiseptic solution to keep infection away and I wash myself too much. Am I alone in this? And what new habit can I form to deflect from these urges? My obsessive washing, picking, scratching as well as the use of acne cream really has made my skin look pretty awful. It's peeling and itchy with a lot of red patches on my nose, forehead and chin. Also, how long does it take for the redness and marks to go away too? I've really overdone it this time. And I'm on holiday in a month's time. Please help!

[lynn P.]

Hi ((Numpty)) - pleased don't feel embarrassed and you're not alone in your habits. You're brave for admitting this problem. Do you have a therapist or been officially diagnosed with anything? This is called 'Dermatillomania' and is a sub cluster under OCD. Please consult a knowledgable doctor who can outline the best treatment for you. Be careful not to over wash those areas because it could irritate it even more. Use warm water and be gentle. Here's an excellent website with a great deal of information. You're not alone and please get help for this.

http://www.skinpick.com/