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Acne Basics

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Acne

Many people who have never suffered from acne have no idea how large acne can loom in a person's life. The psychological and social impact of acne in a teenager's life cannot be understated. Adolescence is a difficult time because it represents a passage between childhoods into adulthood. When a teenager suffers from acne, the emotional travails of adolescence can increase exponentially. Teenagers tend to be much more sensitive to their appearance and the judgments of their peers. In adolescence, physical appearance and conformity tend to be highly valued, so those teenagers who suffer from acne may feel socially devalued and ostracized from their peers. Even mild acne, research shows, can have an emotionally and psychologically debilitating effect. Higher rates of anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem have all been linked with the presence of acne.

Because adolescence is a period of heightened sensitivity, even mild acne can cause significant emotional stress to a teenager. Most teenagers with acne tend to develop a negative self-image. This may lead to a withdrawal from friends and family. Teenagers may feel stigmatized by the label of 'bad skin,' and may avoid social situations. Even the most outgoing individuals may find it difficult to interact comfortably with their peers. The burden of acne may also lead to poor academic performance, lack of participation, poor school attendance, or inappropriate behavior.

It is not uncommon that teenagers with mild acne experience what psychologists have termed 'dysmorphophobic' acne. This refers to cases where the individual perceives that their acne is much worse than it really is. They may express feelings of disgust and repulsion at their acne. Since most teenagers are hypersensitive to their appearance, even the mildest manifestation of acne may upset some teenagers greatly. In these cases, it is recommended that the individual visit a skin specialist, such as a dermatologist. A dermatologist will be able to explain the specific processes of the skin, and prescribe the appropriate medication. A visit to the dermatologist will help put things in perspective. With a bit of professional advice, a person with dysmorphophobic acne can realize that their acne could be much worse, and that mild cases of acne are highly treatable.

What are some other problems that adolescents with acne may face? Teenagers with acne may suffer from low self-esteem and a negative or even distorted body image. Many acne sufferers may feel socially debilitated because of their acne. They may have a difficult time socializing normally, and have trouble making eye contact, especially when meeting or speaking to strangers. Adolescent acne sufferers may rely on certain 'crutches' to help deal with the embarrassing aspects of their appearance. Acne sufferers may use glasses to attempt to detract from or hide their acne. They may grow their hair long, or style their hair so as to hide parts of their face. Many young women may rely on heavy foundations, concealer, and other types of make-up to hide their acne problem. Even though it may further exacerbate their acne, teenage girls may feel like they have to wear make-up.

Teenage boys, in turn, face their own set of challenges. Young men may feel at a disadvantage to their female counterparts because they have no means by which to conceal their acne. Teenage boys may feel like they cannot participate in certain sports or physical activities that require them to disrobe in locker rooms or remove some portion of clothing, such as swimming. Teenage boys may feel socially insecure and even emasculated because of their acne.

Teenagers who suffer from acne may find it especially difficult to form personal relationships. Most adolescents experience periods of insecurity in developing relationships with members of the opposite sex. These insecurities compounded with the stigma of 'bad skin' can hamper any efforts to build personal or romantic relationships. Adolescents with acne may feel so stigmatized that they may avoid typical teenage activities, such as extracurricular activities, school dances, proms, dating, and other activities.

Teenagers with acne may also suffer from the taunts and bullying of their peers. The fear of being criticized or judged may cause some adolescents to become socially reclusive. Moreover, anyone who is taunted or bullied is more likely to suffer from depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and even suicide