What to do about skin picking?
Mom is obviously picking holes into her skin. We have tried so many things, new detergents, new body washes, we are on the 4th cream, one antibiotic and one steroid. The dermatologist ordered multiple blood work tests (chemistry panels, sed rate and rheumatiod factors) to be done, although once we left I realized I should have asked him to test for Staphylococcus aureus and scabies. She has a follow up appointment in 2 weeks, so I’ll ask then.
We cut her nails way down tonight. I have seen suggestions of getting blunted fake nails. That would be a hard sell, I have never seen my mom with fake nails.
We are going to buy her Under Armour and Dove body wash as directed by the dermatologist. Then make sure she drinks plenty of water. She has a water cooler in her room, that she uses when she doesn’t cover it up. I have had to uncover it a few times because she uses it as a coat rack then forgets that it’s there. Or she unplugs it and complains it’s not working. Other then that it’s been great!
Adventures in Mitchell 
Could this be some type of Shimgles?
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Definitely not shingles, that would run along only one side of the body.
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A cpl thoughts… what about taking her out for a pamper session, like a mani/pedi girls day out, then quietly ask the nail tech if they could put on acrylic nails that are short so she can’t pick *without divulging TMI. Have her paint them and look all glammed up. I’d hope it would help w deterring the ability to pick at her skin, yet allow her to still play piano.
If she likes to take baths, I’d highly suggest Dr. Teal’s foaming bath wash w Epsom salt. It has Eucalyptus & Spearmint oils as well. It’s fairly inexpensive for a large bottle. I will send you a pic of it and how it could possivly help. If she’s NOT keen on baths, I’d highly suggest melaleua & lavender followed w coconut oil to drive those oils in good.
Just my 2 cents on the situation. I’m sure this is not as easy as a suggestion. You are living with these stressors front and center. *Take my advice, I don’t use it anyway.* 😉
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Thanks for the response! Unfortunately she only has a shower, but it’s actually looking better since cutting her nails way down and of course the new ointment twice a day for the last two days. We changed to all fragrance free, dye free detergent, soaps, shampoos and lotion. And she actually has a jar of coconut oil right next to her chair to rub on every time she feels an itch. (I thought of you with that remedy) 😉
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Glad to hear that there is improvement. Sounds like the two of you are on top of things! 😍
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