Acne is a physical problem, but it can also have emotional effects because of the way it impacts your appearance. It can appear on various areas of your body, like the back, chest and arms, but it most commonly attacks the face. This means the pimples and lesions are very visible, especially in severe cases, increasing the likelihood of associated emotional problems. Ironically, emotions like stress can make your acne worse.
Causes
The main causes of acne are an overproduction of oil and excessive dead skin cells. Oil and cells block the pores and lead to inflammation and pimple growth.
Scientists at Stanford University School of Medicine have also found a potential link between emotions and acne. They discovered that acne worsened when college students in a research study were under stress. This appeared to be caused by the production of stress-related hormones in the body and impaired healing ability.
Effects
Acne outbreaks can affect your emotions. Acne is most common during the teen years, but many adults struggle with it, too. You may worry about your appearance and the impression it makes on other people if you have persistent acne. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, acne can lead to depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, withdrawal from family and friends, negative body image, frustration and embarrassment.
Prevention
You can keep acne from worsening due to emotions by practicing healthy stress management techniques--balancing school or work responsibilities, family responsibilities, leisure activities and socializing. You must also get enough sleep because chronic fatigue will impair overall functioning and increase stress levels. Washing your face once or twice a day with water and gentle soap will help to physically prevent the problem of acne.
Solution
You should seek medical treatment if over-the-counter products are not controlling acne well enough. Stick with your treatment plan, even if it takes several weeks to show noticeable results. Maintaining a supportive group of friends and family members is also helpful. You may need professional counseling if your acne is particularly severe or persistent.
Warning
Some especially severe cases of acne do not respond to traditional treatments. Doctors can treat stubborn cystic acne with a drug called Isotretinoin, but the Mayo Clinic warns this medication can have serious emotional effects. It is linked with depression and an increased tendency toward suicide. Teens who use it must be closely monitored for these emotional effects.
