to the OP, you are certainly not alone!
I'm like that with my phone and laptops.
I've never gotten the chance to appreciate the beauty of an iPhone since my first one bc I immediately get a case for it.
Just the same with my laptops. I just responded to another post about having just replaced a late 2008 model unibody. Physically, its in PRISTINE condition bc I immediately employed a complete skin for it from a company called Zagg. It was a top pc/bottom pc, and the inside around the keys and the palm rests.
Over the last 10 years, the palm rest skin is very slightly worn, but everything else is perfect on it! lol
I just ordered a similar product and a new sleeve for my new MacBook and it will be on house arrest until both items arrive and (in the case of the skin) are successfully installed! lol
I'm a bit OCD that way. You know what, its not OCD, I just like and enjoy keeping my [crap] nice!