Introduction
Beard picking is an increasingly common habit among men who have facial hair. It can be an embarrassing and irritating habit, but it is surprisingly common. In this article, we will discuss the reasons why people pick their beards, the consequences of this habit, and some tips to help you stop.
What is Beard Picking?
Beard picking is the act of compulsively pulling out hairs from the beard. It is sometimes referred to as trichotillomania or trich, and it is a type of body-focused repetitive behavior that is classified as a mental health disorder. It is similar to the compulsive hair-pulling associated with trichotillomania, but it is specifically focused on the beard.
Why Do People Pick Their Beards?
Beard picking is often a symptom of anxiety, stress, or depression. It can also be a symptom of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or body dysmorphic disorder (BDD). People may also pick their beards out of boredom, as a way to cope with difficult emotions, or simply out of habit.
Consequences of Beard Picking
Beard picking can have serious consequences. It can damage the skin and hair follicles, leading to irritation, redness, and even infection. It can also lead to patchy or uneven beard growth, as well as permanent bald spots.
7 Tips to Stop Picking Your Beard
1. Identify the triggers: The first step to stopping the habit of beard picking is to identify the triggers. Pay attention to the thoughts and feelings that precede the urge to pick, so that you can recognize the triggers and find a way to avoid them.
2. Avoid triggers: Once you have identified the triggers, it is important to avoid them as much as possible. This may mean changing your environment, avoiding certain people or activities, or finding other ways to cope with difficult emotions.
3. Distract yourself: When the urge to pick arises, find a way to distract yourself. This could be listening to music, reading a book, or engaging in some other activity that takes your mind off of the urge.
4. Practice self-compassion: It is important to be kind to yourself when trying to stop the habit of beard picking. Remind yourself that it is a common problem and that it takes time to change a habit.
5. Seek professional help: If you are struggling to break the habit of picking your beard, it may be helpful to seek professional help. A therapist can help you identify the triggers and develop strategies to cope with them.
6. Use a beard balm: Applying a beard balm can help soothe the skin and reduce the urge to pick. It can also help prevent irritation and infection.
7. Reward yourself: Finally, reward yourself for making progress towards stopping the habit. This could be something as simple as taking a break to watch a movie or treating yourself to a new beard product.
Conclusion
Beard picking is a common problem that can have serious consequences. It is important to identify the triggers and find ways to avoid them. Additionally, it is important to practice self-compassion, seek professional help, and use beard balm to soothe the skin. Finally, rewarding yourself for progress can help you stay motivated and on track.
