Picking at dandruff
Is it Dermatillomania or OCD? And Tips for How to Stop
Overview
When you run your hands through your hair or over your head, you might stop to pick at random bumps you find on the surface of your scalp. Most people do this from time to time, usually without even thinking about it.
But for some people, scalp picking may be a symptom of dermatillomania. This is a condition that’s similar to obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Picking at your scalp doesn’t always cause hair loss. But it does increase your risk of developing folliculitis. This is a common condition that happens when your hair follicles are inflamed. There are several types of folliculitis, but it’s usually caused by a bacterial infection.
When you pick at your scalp, it can create small open wounds that are vulnerable to infection and folliculitis. Over time, folliculitis can destroy hair follicles and cause permanent hair loss.
Dermatillomania is sometimes referred to as skin-picking disorder or excoriation disorder. Its main symptom is an uncontrollable urge to pick at a certain part of your body.
Common targets of picking include
- nails
- cuticles
- acne or other bumps on the skin
- scalp
- scabs
People with dermatillomania tend to feel a strong sense of anxiety or stress that’s only alleviated by picking at something. For many, picking provides an intense sensation of relief or satisfaction. Keep in mind that picking isn’t always a conscious behavior. Some people with dermatillomania do it without even realizing it.
Over time, picking can lead to open sores and scabbing, which provides more things to pick. The resulting marks can leave you feeling self-conscious or upset, especially if you have little or no hair. These feelings can further increase anxiety and stress, creating a cycle of behavior that’s often hard to break.
There are some things you can try on your own to break the habit of picking at your scalp. Most of these focus on keeping your hands and mind busy.
The next time you feel the urge to pick or find yourself unconsciously picking, try:
- popping bubble wrap
- drawing or writing
- reading
- going for a quick walk around the block
- meditating
- using fidget cubes or spinners
- squeezing a stress ball
- talking to a close friend or family member about what you’re feeling in that moment
There are also things you can do to reduce the temptation to pick, such as:
- making a conscious effort to protect your scalp from bumps and cuts that might be tempting to pick at your scalp
- using a medicated shampoo, such as ketoconazole shampoo, to manage any scalp conditions, such as dandruff, that might encourage picking
The methods above don’t work for everyone. If you’re finding it hard to stop picking, consider seeking help from a therapist. Many people find relief through doing cognitive behavioral therapy. This type of behavioral therapy helps to rewire your thought patterns and behaviors.
You can also make an appointment with a doctor to talk about medication options. Antidepressants can help to manage underlying anxiety issues. If you don’t already have a mental health provider, our Healthline FindCare tool can help you connect to physicians in your area.
If you’re concerned about the cost of treatment, try reaching out to any local universities. Some psychology programs offer free or low-cost therapy with graduate students. You can also ask potential therapists if they have a sliding scale for their fees, which will allow you to pay what you can. This is a pretty common conversation, so don’t feel uncomfortable bringing it up.
You should also see a doctor if you regularly notice bumps on your scalp or have significant hair loss. These could be signs of a scalp condition that needs treatment.
Find out what might be causing sores or scabs on your scalp.
Occasionally picking at your scalp usually isn’t a huge deal, though it does increase your risk of folliculitis, which can cause permanent hair loss.
But if you find that you’re having a hard time resisting the urge to pick at your scalp, there may be a psychological component to your picking. There are many ways to manage dermatillomania, but you might have to try a few things before you find what works for you.
If you’re not sure where to start, consider joining a support group to connect with others living with dermatillomania. The TLC Foundation lists both in-person and online support groups.
Is it Dermatillomania or OCD? And Tips for How to Stop
Overview
When you run your hands through your hair or over your head, you might stop to pick at random bumps you find on the surface of your scalp. Most people do this from time to time, usually without even thinking about it.
But for some people, scalp picking may be a symptom of dermatillomania. This is a condition that’s similar to obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Picking at your scalp doesn’t always cause hair loss. But it does increase your risk of developing folliculitis.
This is a common condition that happens when your hair follicles are inflamed. There are several types of folliculitis, but it’s usually caused by a bacterial infection.
When you pick at your scalp, it can create small open wounds that are vulnerable to infection and folliculitis. Over time, folliculitis can destroy hair follicles and cause permanent hair loss.
Dermatillomania is sometimes referred to as skin-picking disorder or excoriation disorder. Its main symptom is an uncontrollable urge to pick at a certain part of your body.
Common targets of picking include
- nails
- cuticles
- acne or other bumps on the skin
- scalp
- scabs
People with dermatillomania tend to feel a strong sense of anxiety or stress that’s only alleviated by picking at something. For many, picking provides an intense sensation of relief or satisfaction. Keep in mind that picking isn’t always a conscious behavior. Some people with dermatillomania do it without even realizing it.
Over time, picking can lead to open sores and scabbing, which provides more things to pick. The resulting marks can leave you feeling self-conscious or upset, especially if you have little or no hair. These feelings can further increase anxiety and stress, creating a cycle of behavior that’s often hard to break.
There are some things you can try on your own to break the habit of picking at your scalp. Most of these focus on keeping your hands and mind busy.
The next time you feel the urge to pick or find yourself unconsciously picking, try:
- popping bubble wrap
- drawing or writing
- reading
- going for a quick walk around the block
- meditating
- using fidget cubes or spinners
- squeezing a stress ball
- talking to a close friend or family member about what you’re feeling in that moment
There are also things you can do to reduce the temptation to pick, such as:
- making a conscious effort to protect your scalp from bumps and cuts that might be tempting to pick at your scalp
- using a medicated shampoo, such as ketoconazole shampoo, to manage any scalp conditions, such as dandruff, that might encourage picking
The methods above don’t work for everyone.
If you’re finding it hard to stop picking, consider seeking help from a therapist. Many people find relief through doing cognitive behavioral therapy. This type of behavioral therapy helps to rewire your thought patterns and behaviors.
You can also make an appointment with a doctor to talk about medication options. Antidepressants can help to manage underlying anxiety issues. If you don’t already have a mental health provider, our Healthline FindCare tool can help you connect to physicians in your area.
If you’re concerned about the cost of treatment, try reaching out to any local universities. Some psychology programs offer free or low-cost therapy with graduate students. You can also ask potential therapists if they have a sliding scale for their fees, which will allow you to pay what you can. This is a pretty common conversation, so don’t feel uncomfortable bringing it up.
You should also see a doctor if you regularly notice bumps on your scalp or have significant hair loss.
These could be signs of a scalp condition that needs treatment.
Find out what might be causing sores or scabs on your scalp.
Occasionally picking at your scalp usually isn’t a huge deal, though it does increase your risk of folliculitis, which can cause permanent hair loss. But if you find that you’re having a hard time resisting the urge to pick at your scalp, there may be a psychological component to your picking. There are many ways to manage dermatillomania, but you might have to try a few things before you find what works for you.
If you’re not sure where to start, consider joining a support group to connect with others living with dermatillomania. The TLC Foundation lists both in-person and online support groups.
Dandruff removal - Scalp care - Catalog
Vichy Intensive anti-dandruff shampoo for normal to oily scalp, 390 ml
Vichy Intensive anti-dandruff shampoo for normal to oily scalp, 390 ml
12 reviews
1 821 ₽ -20% 1 457 ₽
La'Dor Silicone Free Hydrating Conditioner, 100 ml
La'Dor Silicone Free Hydrating Conditioner, 100 ml
four recall
La'Dor Silicone Free Hydrating Conditioner, 530 ml
La'Dor Silicone Free Hydrating Conditioner, 530 ml
2 recall nine0005
1 088 ₽
Vichy Intensive anti-dandruff shampoo for normal to oily scalp, 50 ml
Vichy Intensive anti-dandruff shampoo for normal to oily scalp, 50 ml
3 recall
407 ₽ -20% 326 ₽
Sim Sensitive Therapeutic Tonic T, 150 ml
Sim Sensitive Therapeutic Tonic T, 150 ml
1 review
1 140 ₽ -29% 805 ₽
Ollin Professional Moisturizing mask with aloe extract, 250 ml
Ollin Professional Moisturizing mask with aloe extract, 250 ml
thirty reviews
Lebel Cool Orange Hair Soap Super Cool, 200 ml
Lebel Cool Orange Hair Soap Super Cool, 200 ml
6 reviews
2 314 ₽ -35% 1498 ₽
Urban Nature Peeling mask for regular use, 100 ml
Urban Nature Peeling mask for regular use, 100 ml
0 reviews
890 ₽ -thirty% 623 ₽
Vichy Intensive anti-dandruff shampoo for sensitive scalp, 200 ml
Vichy Intensive anti-dandruff shampoo for sensitive scalp, 200 ml
10 reviews
1 351 ₽ -20% 1 081 ₽
Lebel Cooling Freshment aroma shampoo for oily scalp, 200 ml
Lebel Cooling Freshment aroma shampoo for oily scalp, 200 ml
7 reviews
2 873 ₽ -35% 1 859 ₽
La'Dor Anti Dundruff Shampoo for Oily Scalp, 530 ml
La'Dor Anti Dundruff Shampoo for Oily Scalp, 530 ml
0 reviews nine0005
956 ₽ -1% 942 ₽
Vichy Intensive anti-dandruff shampoo for normal to oily scalp, 200 ml
Vichy Intensive anti-dandruff shampoo for normal to oily scalp, 200 ml
nine reviews
1 214 ₽ -20% nine71 ₽
Zeitun Ginger & Black Seed Strengthening Shampoo for Hair & Beard, 250 ml
Zeitun Ginger & Black Seed Strengthening Shampoo for Hair & Beard, 250 ml
0 reviews
464 ₽ -33% 309 ₽
Vichy Intensive Anti-Dandruff Shampoo for Dry Hair, 390 ml
Vichy Intensive anti-dandruff shampoo for dry hair, 390 ml
five reviews
1 821 ₽ -22% 1 415 ₽
Rausch Healing rinse-off conditioner with willow bark extract 200 ml
Rausch Healing rinse-off conditioner with willow bark extract 200 ml
3 recall
1 795 ₽ -35% 1 167 ₽
NEW
Sim Sensitive Therapeutic peeling mask "O", 500 ml
Sim Sensitive Therapeutic peeling mask "O", 500 ml
0 reviews
nine0002 3 463 ₽Lebel Relaxing aroma shampoo for dry scalp Relaxment, 200 ml
Lebel Relaxing aroma shampoo for dry scalp Relaxment, 200 ml
13 reviews
2 873 ₽ -35% 1 859 ₽
Ducray Anti-dandruff shampoo DS, 100 ml
Ducray Anti-dandruff shampoo DS, 100 ml
1 review
1 678 ₽ -20% 1 342 ₽
Ollin Professional Peeling mousse for hair and scalp with aloe extract, 160 ml
Ollin Professional Peeling mousse for hair and scalp with aloe extract, 160 ml
15 reviews
La'Dor Pure Henna Strengthening Shampoo, 200 ml
La'Dor Pure Henna Strengthening Shampoo, 200 ml
1 review
Holly Polly Skin Secret Soothing Scalp Mask, 100 ml
Holly Polly Skin Secret Soothing Scalp Mask, 100 ml
6 reviews
310 ₽ -five% 295 ₽
Zeitun Balancing dandruff shampoo with sage and rosewood for men, 250 ml
Zeitun Balancing Sage & Rosewood Anti-Dandruff Shampoo for Men, 250 ml
2 recall
441 ₽ -thirty% 309 ₽
Urban Nature Professional Peeling Mask, 100 ml
Urban Nature Professional Peeling Mask, 100 ml
0 reviews
nine0002 950 ₽ -thirty% 665 ₽Tefia Anti-dandruff shampoo, 250 ml
Tefia Anti-dandruff shampoo, 250 ml
1 review
La'Dor Silicone Free Moisturizing Shampoo, 100 ml
La'Dor Silicone Free Moisturizing Shampoo, 100 ml
nine0010 0 reviewsZeitun Scrub mask for the scalp "Ritual of freshness", 200 ml
Zeitun Scrub mask for the scalp "Ritual of freshness", 200 ml
2 recall
711 ₽ -thirty% 498 ₽
Vichy Keratoregulatory shampoo for scalp prone to psoriasis, 200 ml
Vichy Keratoregulatory shampoo for psoriasis prone scalp, 200 ml
1 review
1 418 ₽ -20% 1 134 ₽
Dermedic Anti-dandruff shampoo, 300 ml
Dermedic Anti-dandruff shampoo, 300 ml
15 reviews
1 856 ₽ -20% 1 485 ₽
Urban Nature Balancing shampoo for oily scalp and hair, 500 ml
Urban Nature Balancing shampoo for oily scalp and hair, 500 ml
0 reviews nine0005
1 350 ₽ -thirty% 945 ₽
Matrix Biolage Scalpsink Anti-Dandruff Shampoo 250 ml
Matrix Biolage Scalpsink Anti-Dandruff Shampoo 250 ml
3 recall
1 023 ₽ -thirty% 716 ₽
nine0002 Davines Purifying Anti-Dandruff Shampoo 250 mlDavines Purifying Anti-Dandruff Shampoo 250 ml
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3 541 ₽
Alfaparf Milano Scalp Gentle Exfoliating Scrub, 150 ml
Alfaparf Milano Scalp Gentle Exfoliating Scrub, 150 ml
2 recall
2 268 ₽ -10% 2 042 ₽
Tefia Anti-dandruff lotion, 120 ml
Tefia Anti-dandruff lotion, 120 ml
0 reviews
Urban Nature Professional Peeling Mask, 250 ml
Urban Nature Professional Peeling Mask, 250 ml
1 review
1 765 ₽ -thirty% 1 235 ₽
Ollin Professional Anti-Dandruff Shampoo, 1000 ml
Ollin Professional Anti-Dandruff Shampoo, 1000 ml
five reviews nine0005
Dikson Tonic anti-seborrheic ampoule with nettle extract Urtinol, 10x10 ml
Dikson Tonic anti-seborrheic ampoule with nettle extract Urtinol, 10x10 ml
five reviews
1 251 ₽ -thirty% 872 ₽
Estel Professional Anti-dandruff shampoo, 250 ml
Estel Professional Anti-dandruff shampoo, 250 ml
1 review
Kaaral Dandruff Removing Shampoo, 1000 ml
Kaaral Dandruff Removing Shampoo, 1000 ml
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nine0002 2 113 ₽La'Dor ACV Vinegear Shampoo, 430 ml
La'Dor ACV Vinegear Shampoo, 430 ml
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1 282 ₽
Vichy Intensive anti-dandruff shampoo for dry hair, 200 ml
nine0002 Vichy Intensive anti-dandruff shampoo for dry hair, 200 ml13 reviews
1 214 ₽ -20% 971 ₽
Lebel Cool Orange conditioner 240 g
Lebel Cool Orange conditioner 240 g
five reviews nine0005
3 667 ₽ -35% 2 373 ₽
Rausch Anti-dandruff conditioner with coltsfoot extract, 200 ml
Rausch Anti-dandruff conditioner with coltsfoot extract, 200 ml
nine reviews
1 795 ₽ -22% 1 401 ₽
La'Dor Shampoo with natural ingredients, 530 ml
La'Dor Shampoo with natural ingredients, 530 ml
2 recall
1 320 ₽
Spivak Nettle and Rosemary Shampoo Soap, 100 g
Spivak Nettle and Rosemary Soap-Shampoo, 100 g
1 review
157 ₽ -nineteen% 127 ₽
Neutrale Anti-dandruff shampoo for irritated scalp, 400 ml
Neutrale Anti-dandruff shampoo for irritated scalp, 400 ml
1 review
nine0002 303 ₽ -20% 242 ₽Lebel Hairskin Float Cleansing Mousse, 250 ml
Lebel Hairskin Float Cleansing Mousse, 250 ml
1 review
3 868 ₽ -35% 2 503 ₽
NEW
Sim Sensitive Therapeutic Shampoo #2, 250 ml
Sim Sensitive Therapeutic Shampoo #2, 250 ml
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1 166 ₽
NEW
Sim Sensitive Therapeutic Tonic T, 500 ml
Sim Sensitive Therapeutic Tonic T, 500 ml
0 reviews
2 768 ₽
Bioderma Shampoo against dandruff, itching and flaking Node DS+, 125 ml
Bioderma Shampoo against dandruff, itching and flaking Node DS+, 125 ml
four recall
2 630 ₽ -15% 2 236 ₽
Lebel Medicate Essence, 100 ml
Lebel Medicate Essence, 100 ml
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7 756 ₽ -34% 5 100 ₽
Aravia Professional Oily Dandruff Shampoo, 400 ml
Aravia Professional Oily Dandruff Shampoo, 400 ml
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1 020 ₽ -17% 847 ₽
Aravia Professional Multiactive 5 in 1 mask for regeneration of weakened hair and problem scalp Coconut Oil, 200 ml
nine0002 Aravia Professional Multiactive 5 in 1 mask for the regeneration of weakened hair and problematic scalp Coconut Oil, 200 ml2 recall
607 ₽ -five% 577 ₽
Vichy Set (anti-dandruff shampoo for normal to oily hair 50 ml + dandruff tester patches)
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Sim Sensitive Shampoo No.
4 for very oily and sensitive scalp, 75 ml
Sim Sensitive Shampoo No. 4 for very oily and sensitive scalp, 75 ml
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Ollin Professional Anti-Dandruff Shampoo, 250 ml
Ollin Professional Anti-Dandruff Shampoo, 250 ml
2 recall
Uriage D.S. Regulating Soothing Scalp Spray, 100 ml
Uriage D.S. Regulating Soothing Scalp Spray, 100 ml
1 review
1 557 ₽ -nineteen% 1 260 ₽
Uriage DS Kerato Regulating Shampoo, 150 ml
Uriage DS Kerato Regulating Shampoo, 150 ml
1 review nine0005
1 362 ₽ -sixteen% 1 142 ₽
La'Dor Shampoo with natural ingredients, 150 ml
La'Dor Shampoo with natural ingredients, 150 ml
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419 ₽ -15% 357 ₽
nine0002 Spivak Bay Shampoo Soap, 100 gSpivak Bay Shampoo Soap, 100 g
1 review
212 ₽ -25% 159 ₽
Ducray Gentle balancing shampoo, 400 ml
Ducray Gentle balancing shampoo, 400 ml
0 reviews nine0005
2 258 ₽ -20% 1 806 ₽
Alfaparf Milano Scalp Purifying Low Shampoo, 250 ml
Alfaparf Milano Scalp Purifying Low Shampoo, 250 ml
four recall
1 595 ₽ -10% 1 436 ₽
Seborrheic dermatitis
What is seborrheic dermatitis?
Seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic skin disease that occurs against the background of increased secretion of sebum (sebum) and changes in its qualitative composition.
The development of inflammation in seborrheic dermatitis can be facilitated by a fungal infection caused by the activation of Malassezia furfur, a lipophilic yeast fungus.
The most common inflammatory process is localized on the scalp. Also, seborrheic dermatitis can manifest itself in other areas of the skin (on the face, chest and back) - in areas of the greatest accumulation of sebaceous glands. nine0005
Signs of seborrheic dermatitis:
When the disease develops on the scalp, dandruff is an early symptom. Later, other signs appear: itching, foci of hyperemia (reddening of the skin), covered with small scales. In some cases, the areas of inflammation become wet and covered with yellowish crusts.
Seborrheic dermatitis may be accompanied by hair loss in the affected area, which is a consequence of an inflammatory process in the skin that occurs with the involvement of hair follicles. nine0005
Another complication of seborrheic dermatitis may be secondary infection.
The progression of this disease is characterized by the formation of extensive lesions.
Seborrheic dermatitis: causes
Seborrheic dermatitis can be caused by diseases of the endocrine system, psycho-emotional stress, disorders of the immune system (autoimmune diseases, immunodeficiency states), diseases of the central nervous system, increased sweating, malnutrition, a sudden change in climate and / or lifestyle. nine0005
Diagnosis of seborrheic dermatitis
Seborrheic dermatitis has a clinical picture similar to other skin diseases, so only a trichologist or dermatologist can determine the exact cause of inflammation. At the appointment, the doctor interviews and examines the patient, conducts microvideo diagnostics of the hair and scalp, prescribes the necessary tests.
Based on the results of the examination and laboratory diagnostics, the patient may be referred for an additional consultation with a doctor (or several doctors) of another specialty.
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Seborrheic dermatitis: treatment
Treatment is always prescribed in a complex manner, taking into account additional information obtained during the examination. Antipruritic and antifungal creams or ointments, medicated shampoos, oral preparations are used.
It is also important to prevent the onset, progression and recurrence of seborrheic dermatitis in the form of lifestyle changes: maintaining a rational diet and daily routine, reducing the level of daily stress, restoring psychological comfort. nine0005
Result
The result of a systematic and competent approach to the treatment of seborrheic dermatitis will be a significant reduction in the severity of the inflammatory process, a decrease in itching, bringing the disease into remission.
Treatment of seborrheic dermatitis by our specialists will help you avoid the development of complications of this disease and significantly improve your condition.
Gradually you will begin to feel much better, healthier, more confident and calmer.
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Where is seborrheic dermatitis treated? At the Center for Cosmetology and Plastic Surgery named after SV Nudelman at the address: Yekaterinburg, Moskovskaya street, 19.
How much does a trichologist consultation cost? You can find out all the latest information about prices by referring to the price list posted on our website.
CONTRAINDICATIONS, SPECIALIST CONSULTATION IS NECESSARY
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