The shame-filled world of hair-pulling and skin-picking disorders
Medical Xpress
February 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A significant portion of Norwegians—up to 220,000 individuals—struggle with hair-pulling and skin-picking disorders that qualify as mental health conditions. These behaviors often lead to visible bald spots or irritated skin, causing profound shame and embarrassment among sufferers. Benjamin Hummelen, a project manager at Oslo University Hospital (OUS), highlights the emotional toll these disorders take, noting that people feel stigma not only from the physical effects but also because the harm is self-inflicted.
These conditions, classified under body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs), encompass trichotillomania (hair-pulling) and dermatillomania (skin-picking). They are more common than many realize, with estimates suggesting they affect up to 5% of the population worldwide. In Norway alone, the prevalence translates to tens of thousands of individuals enduring these struggles in silence due to the stigma associated with them.
The emotional impact is profound, as sufferers often feel isolated and misunderstood. Many report that their symptoms worsen during times of stress or anxiety, creating a vicious cycle of emotional distress and self-harm. The lack of awareness about these conditions contributes to underdiagnosis and undertreatment, leaving many without the support they need. Addressing this gap is crucial for improving mental health outcomes and reducing the stigma surrounding these disorders.
Understanding why this matters lies in its broader implications for public health. These conditions often coexist with other mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Early intervention can significantly improve quality of life and reduce long-term complications. By raising awareness and encouraging open conversations about BFRBs, society can help break the cycle of shame
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Originally published on Medical Xpress on 2/25/2026