If a client has a history of skin picking, what is the appropriate treatment response?

When a client has a history of skin picking, it’s crucial to address this behavior as it can significantly impact the effectiveness of any acne treatment regimen. Skin picking can exacerbate acne, lead to additional scarring, and create new lesions, complicating the treatment process. Therefore, postponing treatment until the behavior improves is the most appropriate response.

This approach allows time for the client to seek help for their skin picking behavior, whether through behavioral therapy or other supportive measures. It emphasizes the importance of addressing the underlying psychological or emotional factors that may be contributing to the habit before proceeding with physical treatments. Continuing with their normal treatment or starting a new regimen without addressing the skin picking may lead to unsatisfactory results and further skin damage. Neglecting the symptom altogether would disregard an important aspect of the client's skin health and overall wellbeing. Thus, focusing on the client’s behavioral improvement sets the stage for more effective acne treatment in the long run.