Scalp picking and hair loss?

fendertele,The condition that you are suffering from is known as skin picking disorder or  trichotillomania depending on wether you pick the skin or hair. Excessive pulling of hair leads to permanent hair loss and scalp inflammation. This causes histamine release which can perpetuate the cycle. I would recommend that you do all you can to not touch your scalp. However, this may be easier said than done. Professional help with either a clinical psychologist, behavioral psychologist, or psychiatrist may be necessary to help control this condition. The use of histamine 1 and 2 blockers can help much to decrease the itch and desire to scratch.  There was also a study published recently that show significant benefit of using N-acetylcysteine, this is available without a prescription. Wishing you the best of luck!Sincerely,Bernardino A. Arocha, MD

That's correct. Both the number of years one has picked and the intensity of picking impacts on the injury to the scalp and ultimately the amount of scar tissue laid down in the scalp.Such scar tissue can lead to permanent hair loss. There is not alot that can encourage regrowth. You may wish to see a dermatologist. If their is some residual inflammation still present, treating this inflammation can sometimes trigger a bit of hair growth.

After repeated plucking of hairs in a given area the hairs will not regrow as the growing follicular bulb will eventually be completely destroyed. Congratulations on not plucking for the last few months. If your compulsion to pluck returns see your primary care doctor and be referred if necessary for care.