People with BDD suffer from obsessions about their appearance that can last for hours or up to an entire day. BDD obsessions may be focused on musculature (i.e. fixation on muscle mass or definition). Hard to resist or control, these obsessions make it difficult for people with BDD to focus on anything but their imperfections. This can lead to low self-esteem, avoidance of social situations, and problems at work or school.

BDD sufferers may perform some type of compulsive or repetitive behavior to try to hide or improve their flaws although these behaviors usually give only temporary relief.

Examples are listed below:
camouflaging (with body position, clothing, makeup, hair, hats, etc.)
comparing body part to others' appearance
seeking surgery
checking in a mirror
avoiding mirrors
skin picking
excessive grooming
excessive exercise
changing clothes excessively