Medically reviewed by Dr. A.M. van Coevorden, dermatologist
Acne excoriéewhen picking damages the skin
In acne excoriée the acne itself is often mild, but the appearance of the skin is dominated by scratching, picking and squeezing. Small wounds, crusts and marks develop that heal more slowly than the spots themselves. That makes this form distressing, because squeezing and picking are exactly what increases the risk of marks and scars.
How do you recognise acne excoriée?
The typical picture is one of scratched-open marks, crusts and healing wounds, with only a few intact spots. The urge to touch the skin is strong and often hard to stop, especially under stress. It can affect anyone, but is seen most often in girls and young women.
Why leaving your skin alone is so hard and so important
Picking gives brief relief, but keeps the skin in a cycle of damage and healing. Squeezing pushes the inflammation deeper into the skin, causes more inflammation and increases the risk of scars and dark marks. Guilt does not help your skin, a good plan does.
How is acne excoriée treated?
The treatment is twofold. The acne itself is treated, so there is less to see and feel and the urge to pick decreases. Alongside that, there is attention for the picking itself. Acne can affect your mood, and psychological support can help some people. Discuss it honestly in your consultation, you are not the only one dealing with this.
Do the marks fade?
Red or dark marks left after a wound are pigment changes, and those usually fade. True scars, such as pits and thickened areas, do not disappear on their own. The sooner the cycle stops, the smaller the chance of permanent marks. Protect healing spots from the sun during the day, because sunlight makes discolouration darker and more stubborn.
When should you get help?
Do you notice that you cannot stop picking, or are marks and pits remaining? Then this is the moment to have your skin assessed. A dermatologist draws up a treatment plan for the acne and helps you think through the next step for the skin damage.
Frequently asked questions about acne excoriée
What is acne excoriée?
A form of acne in which the appearance of the skin is dominated by scratching and picking. The acne itself is often mild, but the small wounds and crusts are what stand out.
Why does squeezing make acne worse?
The pressure pushes sebum into the skin, which causes more inflammation. Squeezing also pushes the inflammation deeper into the skin and increases the risk of scars and dark marks.
How do I stop picking?
Start by having the acne treated, because calmer skin makes it easier to leave it alone. If it still does not work after that, discuss it with your doctor. Support exists for this, and asking for it is completely normal.
Do the marks from picking fade?
Pigment marks usually fade, although that can take months. True scars, such as pits, do not disappear on their own. Sun protection helps marks fade more quickly.
Who gets acne excoriée?
It can affect anyone, but it is seen most often in girls and young women. Tension and stress often play a part in the urge to pick.