Breaking the Silence: A TikTok Star's Journey with Skin Picking
Image: Alex Welsh for The New York Times

Breaking the Silence: A TikTok Star's Journey with Skin Picking

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How One Influencer is Raising Awareness About Dermatillomania

AI Summary generated by Patrick Diola @ FusePop
4/19/2025

Breaking the Silence: A TikTok Star's Journey with Skin Picking

In a powerful display of vulnerability, a rising TikTok influencer has opened up about her battle with dermatillomania, a mental health condition characterized by compulsive skin picking that affects an estimated 1 in 20 people.

The influencer, who has amassed millions of followers, recently shared her personal experiences with the disorder, highlighting the psychological and emotional challenges that accompany this often-misunderstood condition. By using her platform, she aims to destigmatize skin picking and provide support for others struggling with similar experiences.

Understanding Dermatillomania

Dermatillomania is more than just a bad habit. Mental health experts describe it as a body-focused repetitive behavior that can be triggered by:

  • Anxiety and stress
  • Perfectionism
  • Underlying mental health conditions
  • Genetic predispositions

Breaking the Stigma

By sharing her story, the influencer is helping to normalize conversations about mental health and body-focused disorders. Her transparency encourages others to seek help and understand that they are not alone in their struggles.

Mental health professionals recommend several strategies for managing skin picking, including:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy
  • Stress management techniques
  • Habit reversal training
  • Professional counseling

Her courageous narrative serves as a powerful reminder that mental health challenges can affect anyone, regardless of their public persona or success.

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