Lichenification

Lichenification is a cutaneous condition caused by consistent irritation of the skin, such as by scratching or rubbing including by friction from clothing, or by chemical irritants. Lichenification can develop from scratching existing skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis (secondary lichenification), and can appear on previously healthy skin when repeatedly aggravated (primary lichenification). Primary lichenification is often self inflicted due to psychiatric conditions including obsessive-compulsive disorder and anxiety disorder.