Hi everyone! I wanted to share my personal experience with skin picking and the fidgets and strategies that have genuinely helped me manage this habit. It's been a long journey, but I've found some things that really make a difference. If you're struggling with this too, I hope my story offers some hope and practical solutions.
For years, I struggled with skin picking. It started small, maybe just a little cuticle picking when I was nervous. But over time, it escalated. I'd find myself obsessively scanning my skin for imperfections, and then I'd be unable to resist the urge to pick. I felt so much shame and frustration because I knew it was harming my skin, but I couldn't seem to stop. It wasn't just about having something under my nails; it was the act of pulling something off my body that provided a strange sense of relief. I even tried acrylic nails, thinking it would create a barrier, but I just ended up popping those off too! It was incredibly frustrating.
My first breakthrough came when I tried a very unexpected remedy. I was incredibly skeptical, but desperate for anything that might help. I started applying Vaseline to my cuticles multiple times a day. Yes, plain old Vaseline! I even used a small, soft-bristled paintbrush to apply it. It sounds silly, but it gave my hands something to do other than pick. I did this religiously for about a year, and slowly but surely, the urge to pick lessened. Now, I only really pick when I'm under extreme stress. I always keep a tub of Sally Hansen Cuticle Rehab nearby for when I feel the urge creeping back.
Another thing that really helped me was discovering acupressure massage rings. I'm a scalp picker, and these little rings provide a similar sensation to getting my nails under the edge of something. I keep one on my desk and another in my purse, so I always have something to fidget with when I feel the urge to pick. It's a simple tool, but it's been surprisingly effective. These are great for managing anxiety, which often triggers my skin picking.
Recently, I also came across something called "picky pads." I ordered one immediately, and I'm excited to see if it will be another helpful tool in my arsenal. I've heard great things about them, and I'm hopeful that they'll provide another outlet for my fidgeting urges.
Beyond the specific tools, I've learned that the key is finding fidgets that work for you. What works for one person might not work for another. For me, it's about finding things that provide a similar sensation to picking but without the harmful consequences. I've also found that having a variety of fidgets helps prevent me from getting bored with any one thing.
I've also found that paying attention to my overall well-being helps a lot. Getting enough sleep, eating healthy foods, and managing stress are all crucial for reducing the urge to pick. When I'm feeling run-down or overwhelmed, the urge is always stronger.
Speaking of feeling good, I've recently been trying out some new jewelry from Sumsfashion. I picked up a beautiful 316L Stainless Steel New Fine Jewelry Natural Freshwater Pearl Charms Chain Choker Necklace & Pendant.
It's so delicate and pretty, and it makes me feel a little more put-together, which in turn seems to help with my overall mood. It's amazing how something so simple can make such a difference. I really like how Sumsfashion focuses on quality materials and unique designs. I think it is a great way to distract myself and focus on something beautiful. The necklace is something to fidget with too, but in a gentle and non-destructive way. I can rub the pearls, and it is a very calming experience.
One thing I've learned is that you don't always need to buy expensive fidgets. Sometimes, the best solutions are the ones you create yourself. For example, I've heard of people making their own "picky pads" using Velcro. I need to find some explicit instructions on how to make these. I am curious about the process and if I can make it myself.
Here are a few practical tips that have helped me manage my skin picking: