Picking at the scalp until it bleeds can be a symptom of a skin picking disorder, such as dermatillomania or excoriation disorder. This behavior can cause scarring, discoloration, or disfigurement of the skin, and can also increase the risk of infection, scarring, and hair loss. The causes of skin picking disorder can include boredom, stress, anxiety, negative emotions, skin conditions, and other blemishes that the person wants to get rid of.
If you suspect that you have a skin picking disorder, it is important to seek help from a mental health professional who can diagnose and help treat the condition. Treatment for a skin picking disorder often involves therapy and medication. In addition, there are some coping strategies that can help manage the compulsion to pick at the scalp, such as relaxation techniques, sensory substitutions, and distracting activities. If the scalp is damaged, a person may need to apply topical treatments or see a doctor for medical care.
