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Picking and messing with our sensitive redhead skin during a breakout is something lots of us do. For some it’s worse than others, but regardless, it’s a bad habit you should try and break. Not only does skin picking increase the risk of scarring, infection, and long-term skin issues, but it can also lead to further breakouts. During the colder months, we may also suffer from eczema and dryness of the skin, which can be tempting to touch and pick at.
1. Use pimple patches
If picking, touching, or popping pimples is your issue, try using pimple patches. This will help to keep the spot clean and allow it to heal without you getting your hands on it. Covering up the pimple acts as an “out of sight, out of mind” method. These small, adhesive patches not only provide a physical barrier against picking but also promote a healing environment for the pimple. The patches often contain ingredients like hydrocolloid, which absorbs excess fluid and helps in reducing inflammation. By covering the pimple, you not only deter yourself from picking but also create a shield that accelerates the natural healing process. Incorporating pimple patches into your skincare routine can be a discreet and effective way to break the habit of picking at your skin while supporting its recovery.
2. Try using a face mask
If you’re suffering from dry skin and worried about picking at the dry patches, try wearing a face mask during the times you’re most likely to pick. This will put a barrier between your hands and your skin, but also help to keep the face hydrated. Wearing a face mask can serve as a dual-purpose solution for those dealing with dry skin prone to picking. Not only does it create a physical barrier, deterring the impulse to touch and pick at dry patches, but it also contributes to maintaining skin hydration. The mask acts as a shield, safeguarding your skin from the direct contact of your hands while concurrently trapping moisture close to the surface. Opt for a hydrating face mask to address dryness, and consider incorporating this protective measure during moments when you might be most susceptible to picking. By prioritizing skin hydration and introducing a preventive barrier, you can actively work towards breaking the habit of picking at dry skin.
3. Avoid touching your face
The easiest way to avoid picking and messing with pimples is to avoid putting your hands near your face. This is so much easier said than done, but try to consciously avoid resting your head in your hands, playing with your hair, or touching your face at all. This will keep your hands further from any blemishes and help minimize contact. Breaking the habit of touching your face requires a conscious effort to retrain your behaviors. Be mindful of moments when you find yourself absentmindedly reaching for your face, and redirect that impulse. Refrain from resting your head in your hands or absentmindedly playing with your hair, as these actions bring your hands into close proximity with your face. Consider using reminders, such as setting alarms on your phone, to prompt awareness and encourage you to keep your hands away from your face. While challenging, this simple adjustment can significantly reduce the chances of inadvertently picking at pimples or exacerbating skin issues, contributing to healthier skin over time.
4. Practice meditation/mindful breathing
To help and break the habit, you can practice meditation and mindful breathing. This will help you to keep your mind off of it, and over time may help you to avoid doing it all together once you learn to take a moment and resist the urge.
Incorporating meditation and mindful breathing into your routine can be powerful tools in breaking the habit of picking at your skin. These practices promote a heightened sense of awareness and help redirect your focus away from the urge to touch your face. Engaging in regular meditation sessions allows you to cultivate a mindfulness that extends to your daily activities, making it easier to resist the impulse to pick at your skin. By learning to take a moment, breathe mindfully, and observe your thoughts without judgment, you develop a valuable skill set that can contribute to breaking the cycle of skin picking over time. Consistency in these practices can lead to increased self-control and a healthier relationship with your skin.
Of course, picking at your skin can be both a medical issue and a mental issue that you can address with your doctor or a therapist. There’s no shame, we all pick at our pimples now and again, but if you feel your behavior is uncontrollable or causing you and/ or your skin damage, please consult a doctor.
Extra Tips/Tricks:
1. Keep your hands busy with a stress ball or fidget toy to redirect nervous energy.
2. Trim your nails short to reduce the damage that can be done to your skin.
3. Identify triggers or situations that lead to picking and work on managing stress in those moments.
4. Use soothing lotions or creams to keep your skin moisturized and less tempting to pick at.
5. Seek support from friends, family, or a mental health professional to address underlying issues.
6. Establish a skincare routine to maintain healthy skin, reducing the temptation to pick.
7. Focus on overall well-being through regular exercise, proper sleep, and a balanced diet.
8. If needed, consult a dermatologist or therapist for specialized guidance.
Rock it like a Redhead!
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