Everyone knows that acne is a common skin condition that affects teenagers. In fact, nearly 85% of teens can expect to have acne during their adolescent years.
So what’s the big deal about acne?
Well, although no one likes the way acne makes their skin look, it turns out that acne can be more than just a cosmetic problem. It can cause physical pain, lead to permanent scarring, and even result in mental health problems.
Acne Can Cause Physical Pain
The bumps and inflammation associated with acne can cause discomfort. And the constant touching and picking can lead to skin infections. People with severe acne may even experience headaches and jaw pain from the inflammation.
The swelling and inflammation associated with pimples can lead to tenderness and soreness. It may be painful to wash your face, wear a mask, or apply makeup.
And there is a well-known association between acne of the back and pain while wearing a backpack or purse.
Acne Scars
Another way that acne is more than just a temporary inconvenience is that it can also lead to permanent scarring. When acne lesions become inflamed, they can damage the surrounding skin and connective tissue. This damage can cause scar tissue formation, which can be challenging to treat.
Inflammation associated with acne breaks down the fibers that support the skin. This can cause depressions in the skin, known as “ice pick” scars.
It can also lead to raised, “hypertrophic” scars. In severe cases, acne can even cause “keloid” scars, which are raised scars extending beyond the original injury’s boundaries.
In some cases, scars may fade over time, but they can also remain permanently visible.
There are treatments such as laser therapy, dermabrasion, and chemical peels available. These can help reduce the appearance of acne scars, but many can never be wholly eradicated. As a result, it is crucial to take steps to prevent acne scarring in the first place.
Mental Health Issues
Finally, it’s no secret that acne can be a significant source of embarrassment. This leads many sufferers to feel self-conscious and have a poor self-image.
Studies show that individuals with acne are more likely to experience anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. In fact, acne can be so debilitating that it leads some sufferers to avoid social situations altogether.
The physical effects of acne can lead to feelings of being all alone. It can also promote a general decrease in quality of life. The helplessness and hopelessness that acne sufferers face increase the risk of suicidal thoughts.
Acne can also is associated with body dysmorphic disorder. This is a condition characterized by an obsessive focus on an aspect of one’s appearance. Sufferers may fixate on their acne and need professional mental health intervention.
Simply put, acne is not just a superficial issue; it can have a tangible impact on physical and mental well-being.
Fortunately, there are treatments available that can help to clear up your skin and provide relief. With the help of a physician, you can develop a plan to get your acne under control and start feeling better both physically and emotionally.
Read more about acne myths.
Acne has been a battle that I’ve fought for years, and it’s taken its toll on my self-esteem. But I’m done hiding behind makeup and hiding from the world. I know that I am beautiful, inside and out, regardless of whether or not my skin is clear. And I also know that confidence is the best beauty product there is. So even on days when my acne is acting up, I strut my stuff with my head held high. Because at the end of the day, confident is what truly makes me beautiful.
Those are powerful words and a great attitude, Sheron! Confidence is definitely the best beauty product there is, and it’s so important to feel good about ourselves, inside and out. acne or not! 🙂