A category of related diseases known as body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs) is distinguished by recurrent, body-damaging self-grooming habits. Usually, people engage in these actions as a coping mechanism for worry, stress, or other emotional states. BFRBs are seen as a form of impulse control disorder and frequently entail the person acting out the behavior without being aware of it or having any control over it.
- Trichotillomania (Hair Pulling Disorder) is characterized by compulsive hair-pulling, which can cause visible hair loss and possible scalp injury. Before pulling their hair, people with trichotillomania frequently experience tension or anxiety, and they may feel relief or pleasure afterward.
- Skin damage, scars, or infections can arise from repetitively picking at one’s skin, which is known as dermatillomania (Skin Picking Disorder). Skin picking is often a reaction to perceived flaws or irregularities on the skin and can be brought on by stress or worry.