Global Excoriation (Skin-Picking) Disorder Market Size, Share, and Trends Analysis Report – Industry Overview and Forecast to 2032

Excoriation (Skin-Picking) Disorder Market Size

• The global excoriation (skin-picking) disorder market size was valued at USD 736.07 million in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 1,155.59 million by 2032, at a CAGR of 5.80% during the forecast period
• The market growth is largely fueled by the increasing awareness of mental health conditions, rising diagnosis rates of excoriation (skin-picking) disorder, and growing availability of therapeutic options including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), habit reversal training, and digital therapeutics
• Furthermore, rising consumer demand for accessible, effective, and personalized mental health solutions—both in clinical and home-based care settings—is positioning excoriation disorder treatments as a crucial component of the broader behavioral health industry. These converging factors are accelerating the adoption of excoriation (skin-picking) disorder solutions, thereby significantly boosting the industry’s growth

Excoriation (Skin-Picking) Disorder Market Analysis

• Excoriation (Skin-picking) Disorder, a mental health condition characterized by repetitive skin-picking behaviors, is becoming an increasingly recognized area within psychiatric and behavioral health markets due to its significant impact on quality of life and comorbidities with anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorders
• The escalating demand for effective treatment options for Excoriation (Skin-picking) Disorder is primarily fueled by growing mental health awareness, rising diagnosis rates, increasing availability of behavioral therapies such as CBT and habit reversal training, and expanding access to pharmacological interventions.
• North America dominated the excoriation (skin-picking) disorder market with the largest revenue share of 38.7% in 2024, supported by strong healthcare infrastructure, high awareness levels, and the presence of key pharmaceutical and therapeutic companies in the U.S. and Canada
• Asia-Pacific is expected to be the fastest-growing region in the excoriation (skin-picking) disorder market during the forecast period with a projected CAGR of 6.9%, owing to expanding healthcare access, rising disposable incomes, and growing awareness about mental health across emerging economies such as China and India
• The oral segment dominated the excoriation (skin-picking) disorder market with a revenue share of 58.3% in 2024, due to its ease of use, strong patient adherence, and cost-effectiveness. Oral drugs are the most common mode of administering antidepressants, anticonvulsants, and antipsychotics, making them a preferred choice globally

Report Scope and Excoriation (Skin-Picking) Disorder Market Segmentation 

Excoriation (Skin-Picking) Disorder Market Trends

Rising Adoption of Digital Therapeutics and Online CBT Programs

• A significant and accelerating trend in the global excoriation (skin-picking) disorder market is the growing adoption of digital therapeutics and online cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) programs, which are expanding access to evidence-based treatment. Patients who may face barriers such as stigma, limited availability of specialized providers, or geographical constraints are increasingly turning to digital platforms for therapy
  • For instance, companies are developing mobile applications and online therapy platforms designed to deliver structured CBT modules for skin-picking disorder and other body-focused repetitive behaviors. These tools allow patients to track triggers, monitor progress, and receive guided behavioral interventions from the convenience of their home
• Digital platforms also enable personalized therapy plans, reminders, and progress tracking, which can improve adherence to treatment compared to traditional therapy alone. Some programs are being integrated with telepsychiatry services, where licensed clinicians provide remote support in combination with app-based therapy
• Furthermore, partnerships between healthcare providers, insurers, and technology firms are facilitating the reimbursement and clinical validation of digital therapeutics, boosting their adoption in mainstream psychiatric care
• This trend toward accessible, affordable, and scalable treatment delivery is reshaping how excoriation disorder is managed. Patients benefit from continuous support and self-monitoring tools, while clinicians gain data-driven insights into patient progress
• Consequently, the demand for digital CBT programs and app-based behavioral therapies is growing rapidly across both developed and emerging markets, as patients and healthcare systems increasingly prioritize convenience, accessibility, and cost-effectiveness in managing excoriation disorder

Excoriation (Skin-Picking) Disorder Market Dynamics

Driver

Growing Need Due to Rising Mental Health Awareness and Advancements in Treatment

• The increasing recognition of mental health conditions worldwide, particularly body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs) such as excoriation disorder, is driving demand for effective treatments. Greater public awareness and reduced stigma are encouraging more individuals to seek diagnosis and treatment
  • For instance, in June 2023, Yourgene Health presented supportive data showing the broader utility of EDTA tubes in genomics labs, reflecting how laboratory advances also indirectly support psychiatric and behavioral health research, including studies on disorders like excoriation. This indicates a growing commitment by the healthcare industry to expand diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities
• As healthcare systems prioritize mental health alongside physical health, demand for excoriation disorder solutions—including antidepressants, antipsychotics, and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)—continues to rise
• Furthermore, the expansion of digital therapeutics, mobile health apps, and online support communities is making evidence-based therapies like CBT more accessible and user-friendly. This shift toward hybrid care models, blending pharmacological and behavioral approaches, is expected to significantly accelerate market growth
• The increasing role of research and development in developing novel therapeutics, coupled with early intervention programs promoted by hospitals and mental health clinics, is further strengthening market expansion opportunities

Restraint/Challenge

Concerns Regarding Underdiagnosis, Limited Awareness, and High Treatment Costs

• Despite growing awareness of mental health, excoriation disorder remains underdiagnosed and often misclassified as a simple dermatological issue rather than a psychiatric condition. This lack of awareness among both patients and healthcare providers restricts timely diagnosis and treatment initiation
  • For instance, research studies highlight that excoriation disorder is frequently overlooked in primary care and dermatology settings, leading to delays in intervention and worsening of the condition. Such diagnostic gaps represent a major barrier to market growth
• Another significant restraint is the high cost of long-term treatment. While generic antidepressants or antipsychotics may be affordable, advanced therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), specialized psychiatric consultations, or newer digital therapeutic platforms can be expensive, particularly in developing countries with limited insurance coverage
• Cultural stigma surrounding mental health and body-focused repetitive behaviors also prevents many individuals from seeking help. In several regions, mental health services remain underfunded and inaccessible, further limiting treatment adoption
• Overcoming these challenges will require broader physician education programs, policy-level interventions to improve insurance coverage for behavioral health, and the development of cost-effective therapeutic solutions. Efforts by pharmaceutical companies, mental health organizations, and digital therapy providers to expand affordable access will be vital for long-term market sustainability

Excoriation (Skin-Picking) Disorder Market Scope

The market is segmented on basis of treatment, diagnosis, dosage, route of administration, end-users, and distribution channel.

• By Treatment

On the basis of treatment, the excoriation (skin-picking) disorder market is segmented into antidepressants, anticonvulsants, antipsychotics, cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), and others. The cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) segment held the largest market revenue share of 41.6% in 2024, driven by its proven effectiveness in addressing compulsive behaviors, relapse prevention, and long-term patient outcomes. CBT is widely supported by clinicians and increasingly integrated with digital health platforms, enabling remote sessions and self-monitoring tools that expand access. Insurance coverage in developed markets and strong recommendations in psychiatric treatment guidelines also contribute to its dominance. Moreover, CBT’s ability to be personalized for varying severities of the disorder continues to position it as the gold standard in treatment.

The antidepressants segment is expected to witness the fastest CAGR of 8.9% from 2025 to 2032, fueled by the growing prescription of SSRIs and related drugs that help manage comorbid anxiety and depression. Pharmaceutical advancements, such as extended-release formulations and fewer side effects, are supporting adoption in chronic management of excoriation disorder. Rising awareness among psychiatrists, greater accessibility via both retail and online pharmacies, and affordability compared to long-term therapy sessions strengthen market penetration. In addition, clinical trials exploring new molecules are expected to enhance treatment efficacy and broaden use cases, further accelerating growth.

• By Diagnosis

On the basis of diagnosis, the excoriation (skin-picking) disorder market is segmented into physical examination and others. The physical examination segment accounted for the largest revenue share of 52.4% in 2024, as dermatologists and psychiatrists primarily rely on direct evaluation of lesions, scarring, and patient history. This method is cost-effective, widely accessible, and requires no specialized equipment, making it the standard across hospitals and clinics. The familiarity of physicians with visual assessments continues to make this approach the dominant choice. In addition, its accuracy in identifying severe cases reinforces its widespread adoption globally.

The other methods segment is projected to grow at the fastest CAGR of 9.2% from 2025 to 2032, driven by the increasing adoption of psychological assessments, structured interviews, and digital diagnostic tools. Mobile-based self-reporting platforms, AI-enabled behavioral monitoring, and integrated psychiatric assessment frameworks are helping detect cases earlier. This shift is supported by rising awareness of mental health, the need for comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, and the integration of digital health in primary care. Expanding adoption in developed and emerging markets is expected to accelerate this trend further.

• By Dosage

On the basis of dosage, the excoriation (skin-picking) disorder market is segmented into tablet, injection, and others. The tablet segment dominated the market with a revenue share of 47.8% in 2024, supported by its convenience, portability, and wide availability across both hospital and retail pharmacies. Tablets offer standardized dosing, high patient compliance, and cost-effectiveness, making them the preferred choice among psychiatrists. They are also easier to distribute in large volumes, enhancing their dominance in outpatient care. Pharmaceutical companies continue to innovate with improved formulations, which further strengthens their usage.

The injection segment is expected to register the fastest CAGR of 10.1% from 2025 to 2032, driven by rising demand for long-acting injectables in psychiatric care. Injections provide rapid onset of action, which is beneficial in severe or resistant cases of excoriation disorder. Hospitals increasingly use advanced injectable psychopharmacology to improve patient outcomes, especially in acute management. Continued research into novel delivery systems and patient-friendly formulations is expected to support strong growth. In addition, their use in combination therapies enhances their role in complex cases.

• By Route of Administration

On the basis of route of administration, the excoriation (skin-picking) disorder market is segmented into oral, intravenous, and others. The oral segment held the largest market revenue share of 58.3% in 2024, due to its ease of use, strong patient adherence, and cost-effectiveness. Oral drugs are the most common mode of administering antidepressants, anticonvulsants, and antipsychotics, making them a preferred choice globally. Widespread physician familiarity, broad insurance coverage, and availability in multiple dosage strengths strengthen their adoption. Oral administration also ensures convenient long-term management for patients in both hospital and homecare settings.

The intravenous segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR of 9.7% from 2025 to 2032, as it provides immediate therapeutic relief in severe or treatment-resistant cases. Hospitals increasingly prefer IV routes for acute interventions where quick response is critical. Advancements in hospital-based psychiatric care and supportive infrastructure drive this adoption. Furthermore, intravenous drug administration supports combination therapies that offer enhanced clinical outcomes. Growing investment in psychiatric infusion therapies is expected to further fuel demand.

• By End-Users

On the basis of end-users, the excoriation (skin-picking) disorder market is segmented into clinics, hospitals, and others. The hospital segment held the largest market revenue share of 49.5% in 2024, supported by advanced infrastructure, availability of multidisciplinary psychiatric teams, and access to both pharmacological and behavioral therapies. Hospitals benefit from insurance reimbursement frameworks that cover psychiatric care, strengthening their dominance. Patients with severe or chronic conditions often seek hospitals due to the availability of comprehensive treatment options. Their role as central hubs for both diagnosis and therapy continues to make them the largest end-user segment.

The clinic segment is projected to record the fastest CAGR of 8.6% from 2025 to 2032, due to the rising popularity of private psychiatric and dermatology clinics offering personalized care. Increasing demand for affordable and accessible treatment in outpatient settings supports growth. The emergence of tele-clinics and online consultation platforms further expands their reach, particularly in underserved regions. Clinics also provide shorter waiting times and continuity of care, making them increasingly attractive to patients. Expanding mental health awareness globally will further boost this trend.

• By Distribution Channel

On the basis of distribution channel, the excoriation (skin-picking) disorder market is segmented into hospital pharmacy, retail pharmacy, and online pharmacy. The hospital pharmacy segment dominated with a revenue share of 44.1% in 2024, as hospitals remain the primary point of access for psychiatric medications prescribed during treatment. Integrated hospital pharmacies ensure the authenticity of drugs and convenience for inpatients and outpatients alike. Their strong association with hospital-based psychiatric services enhances reliability. In addition, hospital pharmacies are increasingly supported by reimbursement frameworks, further solidifying their dominance.

The online pharmacy segment is expected to expand at the fastest CAGR of 11.3% from 2025 to 2032, driven by growing patient preference for privacy, convenience, and home delivery of psychiatric medications. E-commerce platforms offer subscription models, discounts, and 24/7 availability, attracting younger demographics and tech-savvy patients. Regulatory support for telemedicine and digital distribution is further boosting confidence in online platforms. Increasing smartphone penetration and global expansion of digital healthcare ecosystems will continue to accelerate adoption.

Excoriation (Skin-Picking) Disorder Market Regional Analysis

• North America dominated the excoriation (skin-picking) disorder market with the largest revenue share of 38.7% in 2024, supported by strong healthcare infrastructure, high awareness levels, and the presence of key pharmaceutical and therapeutic companies in the U.S. and Canada
• The region’s growth is further driven by increasing diagnosis rates of body-focused repetitive behaviors, availability of advanced treatment options including behavioral therapies and pharmacological interventions, and strong government as well as non-governmental support for mental health initiatives
• Moreover, the rising adoption of digital therapeutics and online therapy platforms, combined with high healthcare spending and insurance coverage, establishes North America as the leading market for excoriation disorder management

U.S. Excoriation (Skin-picking) Disorder Market Insight

The U.S. excoriation (skin-picking) disorder market captured the largest revenue share of 55% in 2024 within North America, fueled by high mental health awareness campaigns and robust research activity focused on body-focused repetitive behaviors. The growing availability of specialized clinics, telehealth platforms offering CBT and habit-reversal training, and strong investment by pharmaceutical firms in novel psychotropic medications are propelling the market. In addition, favorable reimbursement policies and the rising acceptance of mental health treatment are further driving U.S. market expansion.

Europe Excoriation (Skin-picking) Disorder Market Insight

The Europe excoriation (skin-picking) disorder market is projected to expand at a substantial CAGR throughout the forecast period, primarily driven by growing awareness of mental health disorders, strong psychiatric care infrastructure, and emphasis on early intervention. The region’s focus on destigmatizing compulsive disorders has improved diagnosis rates. Furthermore, collaborations between academic institutions and pharmaceutical companies are supporting the development of novel therapies. With increasing demand for behavioral therapies across both private and public healthcare systems, the market in Europe continues to strengthen.

U.K. Excoriation (Skin-picking) Disorder Market Insight

The U.K. excoriation (skin-picking) disorder market is anticipated to grow at a noteworthy CAGR during the forecast period, driven by government-led mental health initiatives, higher investment in digital CBT platforms, and rising awareness campaigns. In addition, concerns around underdiagnosed and untreated compulsive disorders are encouraging both public health systems and private care providers to expand therapeutic offerings. The U.K.’s emphasis on accessible mental health care through the National Health Service (NHS) and its robust telemedicine adoption are expected to further stimulate growth.

Germany Excoriation (Skin-picking) Disorder Market Insight

The Germany excoriation (skin-picking) disorder market is expected to expand at a considerable CAGR during the forecast period, fueled by growing acceptance of behavioral therapy, strong research in psychiatric treatment, and the country’s advanced healthcare infrastructure. Germany’s emphasis on innovative and evidence-based therapies, combined with high awareness of body-focused repetitive behaviors, is promoting adoption of treatment. In addition, the integration of digital health applications into mainstream care, supported by government reimbursement policies, is strengthening Germany’s position in the European market.

Asia-Pacific Excoriation (Skin-picking) Disorder Market Insight

The Asia-Pacific excoriation (skin-picking) disorder market is poised to grow at the fastest CAGR of 6.9% during the forecast period of 2025 to 2032, driven by expanding access to healthcare, rising disposable incomes, and increasing awareness about mental health disorders in countries such as China, Japan, and India. Government initiatives to promote mental health, along with rising penetration of telehealth platforms and mobile-based therapy programs, are fostering treatment adoption. The region’s large population base and growing acceptance of psychiatric care position APAC as the fastest-growing regional market.

Japan Excoriation (Skin-picking) Disorder Market Insight

The Japan excoriation (skin-picking) disorder market is gaining momentum due to the country’s advanced healthcare ecosystem, high adoption of digital health solutions, and cultural emphasis on preventive care. The rising number of mental health awareness programs, coupled with an aging population that is increasingly seeking accessible psychiatric care, supports market growth. Japan’s continued investment in AI-enabled diagnostic tools and strong integration of digital CBT programs are further fueling expansion.

China Excoriation (Skin-picking) Disorder Market Insight

The China excoriation (skin-picking) disorder market accounted for the largest market revenue share in Asia-Pacific in 2024, attributed to rapid urbanization, a growing middle class, and strong government-led mental health initiatives. With increasing emphasis on early detection of compulsive disorders and widespread adoption of mobile health apps, China is emerging as a significant growth hub. Strong domestic pharmaceutical production, rising investment in research, and expansion of digital therapeutics platforms are also propelling the excoriation disorder market in China.

Excoriation (Skin-Picking) Disorder Market Share

The excoriation (skin-picking) disorder industry is primarily led by well-established companies, including:

• Johnson & Johnson and its affiliates (U.S.)
• H. Lundbeck A/S (Denmark)
• AbbVie Inc. (U.S.)
• Alkermes (Ireland)
• Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited (Japan)
• Intra-Cellular Therapies Inc. (U.S.)
• Lilly USA, LLC (U.S.)
• Sumitomo Pharma Co., Ltd. (Japan)

Latest Developments in Global Excoriation (Skin-Picking) Disorder Market

• In May 2023, a randomized, double-blind clinical trial led by researchers at the University of Chicago demonstrated that memantine significantly reduced symptoms of excoriation (skin-picking) disorder, with 60.5% of patients on memantine showing marked improvement compared to 8.3% in the placebo group
• In July 2023, a proof-of-concept randomized clinical trial published in JAMA Dermatology found that self-help habit-reversal interventions effectively reduced symptoms of body-focused repetitive behaviors (including skin-picking disorder), highlighting scalable, accessible behavioral treatments
• In April 2024, a randomized controlled trial published in Behavior Therapy reported that therapist-guided, internet-delivered Acceptance-Enhanced Behavior Therapy (A-EBT) significantly improved skin-picking disorder symptoms, with 43% of patients classified as responders and 31% in remission post-treatment

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