Short answer · Medically reviewed summary · Last updated: 2026-05-08
Dermatillomania, also known as Excoriation Disorder, was first clinically described by French dermatologist Louis-Anne-Jean Brocq in 1898 as acne excoriée des jeunes filles. While historically mischaracterized as a mere habit or a simple dermatological issue, modern medicine now recognizes Dermatillomania as a complex condition classified under obsessive-compulsive and related disorders in the DSM-5. When was Dermatillomania first described? The medical history of Dermatillomania began in the late 19th century when Dr.
3 people with Dermatillomania have shared their first-person experience on this question at DiseaseMaps.
What is the history of Dermatillomania?
History of Dermatillomania: when and how it was discovered, and the milestones in research since, medically reviewed.
Dermatillomania, also known as Excoriation Disorder, was first clinically described by French dermatologist Louis-Anne-Jean Brocq in 1898 as acne excoriée des jeunes filles. While historically mischaracterized as a mere habit or a simple dermatological issue, modern medicine now recognizes Dermatillomania as a complex condition classified under obsessive-compulsive and related disorders in the DSM-5.
When was Dermatillomania first described?
The medical history of Dermatillomania began in the late 19th century when Dr. Louis-Anne-Jean Brocq observed young women who compulsively picked at minor skin imperfections, leading to significant scarring. For decades, the condition was viewed primarily through a dermatological lens, often dismissed as a "bad habit" or a manifestation of vanity. It wasn't until the late 20th century that the psychiatric community began to appreciate the underlying neurobiological and emotional drivers of this disorder.
How has the understanding of Dermatillomania evolved?
The transition from viewing Dermatillomania as a behavioral quirk to a recognized clinical diagnosis has been transformative. Historically, patients were often stigmatized or told to "just stop picking." Today, we understand that Dermatillomania involves complex brain circuitry, often functioning as a maladaptive mechanism to regulate intense emotions or stress. The following milestones mark this shift:
- 1990s: Increased focus on the relationship between Excoriation Disorder and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).
- 2013: The DSM-5 officially classified Excoriation Disorder as a distinct diagnosis, moving it away from being a "not otherwise specified" condition.
- Current Era: Research into the role of glutamate modulation and the efficacy of N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) has provided new pharmacological avenues.
What historical misconceptions have been corrected?
For years, medical professionals incorrectly labeled Dermatillomania as a form of self-mutilation or a symptom of psychosis. These labels were harmful, as they overlooked the compulsive, ritualistic nature of the skin picking. We now know that Dermatillomania is not driven by a desire to cause harm, but by a powerful, often subconscious, urge to soothe internal distress or achieve a sense of "perfection" in the skin.
Next steps
- Consult with a psychiatrist or clinical psychologist specializing in Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs).
- Join the 260 members on DiseaseMaps.org to connect with others who understand the daily challenges of living with Dermatillomania.
- Inquire about evidence-based therapies like Habit Reversal Training (HRT) or Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Medical disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
References
- NIH Genetic and Rare Diseases (GARD) Information Center - Excoriation Disorder.
- PubMed Central: "The Evolution of Excoriation (Skin-Picking) Disorder in the DSM-5."
- The TLC Foundation for Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (bfrb.org).
Posted Sep 14, 2017 by Linda 4500
More recently, researchers are finally trying to shed light on excoriation disorder and its causes, most effective treatments, and who it affects.
The first known mention of excoriation disorder in the print can be found in 1898 by the French dermatologist Louis-Anne-Jean Brocq, describing an adolescent female patient who had uncontrolled picking of acne.
Posted Oct 14, 2019 by lovetheaardvarks 3660
Posted Oct 14, 2019 by Brenda-Victoria 3600
