THE PSYCHOLOGICAL IMPACT OF ACNE

Cont.

Why do acne sufferers feel so much shame and frustration?  

Acne patients often live in fear of their condition worsening. They experience an intense sense of helplessness and frustration as a result of the unpredictability of the condition and their lack of control to improve it.

Acne is highly visible and all sufferers yearn for a clear skin, but are confronted with unsightly lesions and pimples on a daily basis. They often feel embarrassed to be in the company of clear-skinned people, because they are worried that others will see them as dirty or disgusting. To make matters worse, most people with acne believe on some level that their acne is their own fault.

 How can acne affect a person's social life?

Acne can have a negative effect on all kinds of romantic relationships. Acne sufferers typically have low self-esteem and therefore feel that they do not deserve the attention of a clear-skinned and attractive partner. When one partner in a relationship suddenly develops acne, the fear of being rejected often leads to the end of the relationship. 

People with acne often withdraw from social situations, especially when it somehow draws attention to their acne or if it could potentially damage their make-up. They will avoid brightly lit places, swimming and other forms of exercise and dating. They usually feel much more comfortable in dark clubs or movie theatres. 

People with acne isolate themselves at a time when they actually really need support. In my own experience, when I had acne I used to think that I looked absolutely horrible, but when I talked to my friends about it they could barely even remember it.