Handwashing compulsion help

Hey guys. I was hoping someone on here might be able to help me. I have a handwashing compulsion that I am working on in ERP but it is definitely still a work in progress and my hands are struggling. They are red and painful and everytime I look at them I’m ashamed because they just remind me of how much control OCD has over my life. Does anyone have any suggestions on what to put on my hands to help? I know handwashing is a pretty common compulsion so I’m hoping someone knows something that might help.

mri12

Date posted: 2d

You’re definitely not alone in this handwashing compulsions are really common, and it makes sense that seeing the physical effects can feel discouraging. Please try to be gentle with yourself… this isn’t a failure, it’s just part of where you are in recovery. I’m not a professional, but what’s helped some people is using a very gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer (especially ones meant for eczema or sensitive skin) and putting it on at set times rather than after every wash, so it doesn’t become another compulsion. Wearing cotton gloves at night after moisturizing can also help your skin heal!! The fact that you’re doing ERP and aware of what’s happening already shows how much work you’re putting in. Healing takes time, and your hands don’t define you or your progress.

berinthoughts

Date posted: 11h

@mri12 Thank you for the advice! I ordered myself some cotton gloves to help with moisturizing at night. I hope I can get past this compulsion soon 🤞🏻

Ih8OCD123

Date posted: 2d

Aquaphor or Vaseline at set times can be helpful

berinthoughts

Date posted: 11h

@Ih8OCD123 Thank you! I agree that it will need to be at set times so it doesn’t become a compulsion of itself

500671

Date posted: 2d

I have a lotion I use after every hand wash that helps a lot and I use a petroleum based moisturizer overnight with my hands in my sleeves so it can work more. I do like what the commenter said above me about putting on lotion at set times rather than after every wash because I ended up with another compulsion by only using it after washing my hands. I hope it starts getting better for you. You’ve got this!☺️

berinthoughts

Date posted: 11h

@500671 Yeah I like the idea of putting it on at set times too. I know how easy it is for something harmless to become a compulsion

Unwellread

Date posted: 2d

Aquaphor is my go-to for everything. It feels amazing on irritated skin! Good luck, OP 👍

berinthoughts

Date posted: 11h

@Unwellread Thank you!

rosiemae474

Date posted: Yesterday

I struggled with this too years ago so it looks all too familiar. I let my skin get a lot worse before I tried stopping my compulsions. I don’t really remember what I used, but I don’t think it took super long for my skin to heal. Don’t feel ashamed, or let anyone else make you feel ashamed. You will come out the other side

Handwashing compulsion help

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