Final answer:
Excoriation is a dermatological condition caused by the physical act of scratching the skin, which can stem from infections, allergic reactions, or psychological factors. This scratching can lead to various levels of skin damage. Psychological disorders, environmental irritants, and physical injuries can all contribute to the urge to scratch, exacerbating skin damage.
Step-by-step explanation:
What Causes Excoriation?
Excoriation is a dermatological condition that refers to the damage of the epidermis, which is the outer layer of the skin, usually due to physical scratching or the act of picking at one's own skin. This self-inflicted injury can lead to various levels of skin damage, ranging from minor abrasions to more severe wounds that can expose underlying tissues. One common cause of excoriation is the physical response to infections, allergic reactions, or conditions such as eczema, which can cause intense itching and the subsequent urge to scratch. Additionally, conditions like acne can lead to excoriation when individuals pick at or try to pop pimples, which can exacerbate skin damage and lead to potential infection.
Beyond immediate physical causes, psychological factors such as stress or disorders like Dermatillomania (also known as Excoriation Disorder) can contribute to habitual picking, resulting in skin lesions. Environmental factors such as contact with irritants or allergens, including chemicals or plants, can also provoke a response that leads to excoriation. Lastly, injuries such as burns or wounds, which can disrupt the skin barrier and cause pain or irritation, may also lead a person to scratch excessively, leading to further skin damage.