Examining Scalp Sores: Complications and Remedies
Scalp scab picking is a behavior that affects many individuals, and it may be a sign of a mental health condition known as dermatillomania, or skin-picking disorder. This condition, which is also referred to as excoriation disorder, is characterized by repetitive urges to pick at the skin, including scabs, blemishes, or perceived imperfections [2][3].
Dermatillomania falls under the category of body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs) and can lead to significant skin damage and emotional distress. People with dermatillomania may pick at their scalp scabs subconsciously or as a compulsive behavior, which can worsen the condition over time [2][4]. While dermatologists can help manage the physical skin damage and rule out other skin conditions, dermatillomania is primarily a behavioral and mental health disorder that requires specialized psychological treatment [2].
If you have scabs on your scalp and experience symptoms such as inflammation, swelling, fever, other signs of infection, scabs that keep coming back or do not go away, scabs that become very itchy or painful, scabs that do not go away within a few days of not picking at them, or if you develop multiple scars on your scalp that you cannot identify, it is essential to contact a doctor [1]. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends that you contact a doctor as soon as possible if you have any symptoms of infection [1].
Picking at a scab on the scalp does not always cause hair loss, but it could cause the scab to take longer to heal or lead to an infection. If left untreated, dermatillomania can result in scarring, discoloration, or disfigurement of the scalp [5].
People with dermatillomania may use avoidance behaviors to conceal skin damage caused by picking, such as avoiding social situations, avoiding intimacy with others, or wearing clothes that cover the areas they have picked [6]. They may also become self-conscious about their appearance and try to cover up the damage using makeup or clothing.
Treatments for dermatillomania typically involve talk therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and medication such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) [7]. If you suspect you may have dermatillomania, it is essential to discuss treatment options with a doctor, who may recommend a psychiatrist or other qualified healthcare professional to help treat the condition [8].
The AAD recommends keeping small wounds on the scalp clean, using petroleum jelly to keep them moisturized, covering them with a bandage and changing it daily, and using sunscreen or keeping the scalp covered to prevent browning or reddening of the scab [9].
Dermatillomania may be associated with other conditions such as trichotillomania (hair-pulling disorder), obsessive-compulsive disorder, or major depressive disorder [10]. These behaviors may lead to a person becoming isolated and developing strained relationships with their family and friends, potentially causing mood disorders or anxiety.
Repeatedly picking at scabs on the scalp may increase the risk of complications such as infections that require medical attention, open wounds, continued scabbing, disfigurement, scarring, and discoloration of the scalp [11]. It is crucial to seek help if you are struggling with this issue to prevent these potential complications and improve your overall well-being.
- The behavior of picking at scabs on the scalp could be a sign of a mental health condition called dermatillomania, also known as skin-picking disorder.
- Dermatillomania falls under the category of body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs), characterized by repeated urges to pick at the skin.
- Picking at scabs on the scalp can lead to physical skin damage, emotional distress, and potential infections.
- Dermatologists can help manage the physical skin damage and rule out other skin conditions, but dermatillomania requires specialized psychological treatment.
- Symptoms that may indicate the need for medical attention include inflammation, swelling, fever, scabs that keep coming back, or multiple scars on the scalp.
- People with dermatillomania may use avoidance behaviors to conceal skin damage, such as avoiding social situations or wearing clothes that cover affected areas.
- Treatments for dermatillomania often involve talk therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and medication such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).
- If you suspect you may have dermatillomania, it is essential to discuss treatment options with a doctor, who may recommend a psychiatrist or other healthcare professional.
- The American Academy of Dermatology recommends keeping small wounds on the scalp clean, using petroleum jelly, covering them with a bandage, and using sunscreen or keeping the scalp covered to prevent browning or reddening of the scab.
- Dermatillomania may be associated with other conditions such as trichotillomania (hair-pulling disorder), obsessive-compulsive disorder, or major depressive disorder.
- Repeatedly picking at scabs on the scalp may increase the risk of complications, including infections, open wounds, continued scabbing, disfigurement, scarring, and discoloration.
- Seeking help for dermatillomania is crucial to prevent potential complications and improve overall mental health and well-being.
