[tealBumblebee]

I've got a bad habit of skin picking. I wouldn't classify it as Dermatillomania because I only pick when there is a scab or scar or something to be picked. I also pick at my cuticles but that doesn't bother me.

Most recently i've had some bug bites (i guess) that led to some realllly bad local scarring and the skin is pretty much turning black but I can't stop picking it when they heal over. I guess my skin heals fast because by the end of the day, if left alone, they look dramatically better but then I feel like I have to pick them. I say i'll only pick one (i read as a tip to have just one area where i'm 'allowed' to pick to help avoid the total picking) but before I know it i'm consumed by the aftereffect of the picking and have picked each area.

Are there any non-medicinal tips that you guys can offer to avoid mildly obsessive skin picking so that these scars can heal?

[PoorPrincess]

Princess is 'guinea pig' for same remedies sought.
I, too, Bumblebee, am trying desperately to reclaim my skin.

Some relief and moderate success with a sort of micro-dermabrasion using simple Arm&Hammer baking soda. Mix a small amount with liquid soap or even plain water.

It is gently abrasive to remove the dead skin cells and granulated tissue that may have formed around the insect wounds. It is also non-toxic and alkaline (soothing) in its properties.

Good luck.

[tealBumblebee]

Originally Posted by PoorPrincess

Princess is 'guinea pig' for same remedies sought.
I, too, Bumblebee, am trying desperately to reclaim my skin.

Some relief and moderate success with a sort of micro-dermabrasion using simple Arm&Hammer baking soda. Mix a small amount with liquid soap or even plain water.

It is gently abrasive to remove the dead skin cells and granulated tissue that may have formed around the insect wounds. It is also non-toxic and alkaline (soothing) in its properties.

Good luck.

Oh wow! I'm going to try this tonight and for the rest of the week!! Thanks!

[SeekerOfLife]

Aloe vera gel is very healing and soothing.
Not related to skin picking, but in the summer I get pimply areas on me due to sweating. Every morning I apply pure, clear aloe gel. There will not be any pimples, rash, or itch.