Consequences

As acne occurs predominantly in the face, it is visible to everyone and difficult to hide. Thus this skin disease can have a severe impact on one’s self-esteem and can change a person’s behaviour.

Being afflicted with acne can damage your self-confidence. Some adolescents don’t want to show their face any more, they try to hide in their room and to avoid contacts. This can affect friendships and other social contacts and have a negative impact at school and work: you are afraid that other people might find you untended or unattractive, and you might fear never to find a boy- or girlfriend. You may feel insecure in job interviews and fear that you won’t get a chance because of your skin condition.

Furthermore, acne lesions may be painful, and acne therapy and skin care measures may demand a lot of discipline and effort.

These feelings are not inevitable. It is important, however, to become active and take consequent measures as soon as the acne appears. Acne is considered as one of the most widespread skin diseases. It is absolutely normal and very much recommended to consult a doctor or dermatologist and have him/her give you recommendations for therapy and skin care.

And please don’t forget: Acne is not a rare problem, but a very normal skin condition which affects a great majority of adolescents. You are not alone with this situation and your feelings, but most adolescents share them with you.