Is it advisable to do exercise when affected by Dermatillomania? Which activities would you suggest and how intense should they be?

Exercise is highly recommended for individuals with Dermatillomania, also known as Excoriation Disorder, as it serves as a powerful tool to reduce anxiety and stress, which are frequent triggers for skin-picking behaviors. While there are no contraindications to physical activity, it is important to modify your routine to protect healing skin and choose activities that occupy the hands and mind to reduce the urge to pick.

Why is exercise beneficial for Dermatillomania?

Physical activity promotes the release of endorphins and neurotransmitters that can help stabilize mood, which is crucial for those managing the anxiety and depression often associated with Dermatillomania. By engaging in structured movement, you can redirect nervous energy away from the skin. For the 260 members of the DiseaseMaps community currently navigating Dermatillomania, consistent exercise has often been reported as a vital component of their holistic management plan.

What types of exercise are recommended?

The best activities for managing Dermatillomania are those that provide sensory engagement or require the use of your hands, which can serve as a natural deterrent to picking.

• Yoga and Pilates: These practices focus on mindfulness and body awareness, helping you recognize the urge to pick before you act.


• Strength Training: Using resistance bands or weights keeps your hands busy and builds a sense of physical accomplishment.


• Swimming: This is excellent for those with active lesions, provided you use waterproof bandages to protect healing areas from pool chemicals.


• Walking or Hiking: These low-impact activities reduce cortisol levels and provide a calming environment.

How to approach exercise on difficult days?

On days when your Dermatillomania symptoms feel overwhelming, prioritize "pacing." You do not need to perform high-intensity workouts to reap the benefits. If you are struggling with skin tenderness or infection, opt for gentle stretching or guided meditation. If you feel the urge to pick during a workout, pause, take five deep breaths, and focus on the sensation of your muscles working rather than your skin.

Next steps

• Consult your dermatologist to ensure any open wounds are properly dressed before beginning a new exercise routine.


• Start with 15-20 minutes of light activity, three times per week, and gradually increase intensity.


• Join our community at DiseaseMaps.org to share experiences with others managing Dermatillomania.


• Speak with a therapist about incorporating Habit Reversal Training into your lifestyle alongside physical activity.

Medical disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice; please consult your physician before starting any new exercise regimen.

References

• NIH Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD): Excoriation Disorder.


• TLC Foundation for Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRB.org).


• PubMed: "The role of physical activity in the management of anxiety and BFRBs."


• Orphanet: Information on Pathologic Skin Picking and associated comorbidities.