Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is a mental health condition where a person is preoccupied with perceived flaws in their appearance. These flaws are often minor or unnoticeable to others, but the individual with BDD experiences significant distress and impairment in their daily life. Skin dysmorphia is a specific type of BDD where the focus of concern is the skin.
People with skin dysmorphia may be preoccupied with:
- Acne: They may believe their acne is severe, even if it is mild or typical for their age.
- Wrinkles: They may worry excessively about wrinkles, even if they are barely noticeable.
- Skin texture: They may be distressed about the texture of their skin, such as dryness, roughness, or unevenness.
- Discoloration: They may be concerned about skin discoloration, such as freckles, birthmarks, or uneven skin tone.
- Other skin conditions: They may be preoccupied with conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea.
The distress caused by skin dysmorphia can lead to:
- Excessive grooming: They may spend hours trying to cover up or conceal their perceived flaws.
- Avoidance: They may avoid social situations or activities where they feel exposed.
- Skin picking: They may pick at their skin, which can lead to infections or scarring.
- Skin care product overuse: They may use excessive amounts of skincare products, which can irritate their skin.
If you are concerned about your own or someone else's skin dysmorphia, it is important to seek professional help. A therapist can provide support and guidance in managing the condition.
