Dermaroller Treatments for Acne Scars

Dermaroller treatments done by a micro-needle device has won the top tier Gold award for Facial Treatment of the year and the Consumer Choice Treatment of the year at 2011-12 Aesthetics Awards Show held in November in the UK.

This German invented micro needling device has been on the market for 12 years and in the US since 2003. It has preformed more than 1 million successful non surgical procedures eliminating unsightly acne scars, aging skin, open pores, stretch marks, sun damage and fine lines.

““As a dermatologist with more than six years experience using The Genuine Dermaroller®,” says Dr. Nelson Lee Novick, “I have been treating different and often difficult types of scars, including acne, traumatic injury, surgical, and burn scars. I have found that medical micro-needling with the Dermaroller®, versus other brands, to yield gratifying results for improving photo-damaged crinkly/crepey and blotchy pigmented skin.”

Novick, a clinical professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York, adds: “When compared to fraxel lasers, medical micro-needling (Collagen Induction Therapy) with the Dermaroller® has the advantages of being considerably less expensive, may be used anywhere on the body, and when recently tested against intense pulsed light therapy (IPL), was shown to promote a greater degree of new collagen formation.””

Watch this informative video on DermaRoller Treatments

If you want to find out more about Dermaroller treatments, click here to find a dermaroller seminar near you.

 Read original article here

Can the Fraxel Dual Laser be the

Laser Acne Scar Removal Treatment for You?

A lot of times when we are looking for laser acne scar removal, the treatment would involve a one size fits all solution where good skin, as well as acne scarred skin, will receive the same laser treatment.

The results could be mixed as often acne scarred skin will require more attention and more focused laser treatment than normal skin, which does not require treatment at all.

Laser Acne Scar Removal

The Fraxel re:store Dual laser (also known as Solta Dual) is one of the latest products from Solta. Miniscule columns of light is targeted at the scar on the skin, sending fiber laser to the epidermis.

The idea is to re-wound the skin that is scarred so that it can heal itself again with new collagen growth. This procedure works particularly well for acne scars and pink skin from acne scarring as it forces the damaged area to re-heal itself naturally with smoother fresher skin.

It does not however, say whether the regrowth of new skin will be monitored to ensure new scarring does not form. So if you are thinking of using this procedure, ask your doctor about the what type of new skin will re-emerge.

However, it seems to be endorsed by some dermatologists:

“Fraxel re:store is one of the most effective treatments available for acne scarring and surgical scars,” states Austin dermatologist Dr. Gregory Nikolaidis, “Fraxel re:store Dual allows patients to achieve CO2-like results with minimal downtime. Both treatment options are state-of-the-art and set the standard for fractional resurfacing.”"

The site goes on to explain:

“FDA approved for acne and surgical scars, the Fraxel re:store Dual combines deep-penetrating Erbrium fiber laser with the more superficial Thulium fiber laser to offer patients more consistent and successful treatment of acne scars. Depending on the patient’s needs or severity of acne scarring, the physician may custom tailor treatment with the deeper penetrating, more superficial or a combination of the two lasers.”

If the acne scars are quite severe, patient may need anything from 3-6 treatments. Many patients report an improvement on their skin’s appearance often after the second treatment. The healing of the intention wounds will continue over a six months period where results will improve.

Depending on how severe the acne scarring is, a series of treatments is recommended, ranging between 3 and 6. However, many patients report seeing improvement of acne scarring after the 2nd treatment. Since the treatments are causing the body to heal the intentional wounds inflicted on the skin, results will continue to improve over the next six months as more collagen is regrown.

“According to the manufacturer, Fraxel re:store Dual is safe for patients of all color and skin types however, it is always important to extensively discuss laser treatments with your physician if you have darker skin due to post treatment complications such as hyperpigmentation.”

If you go onto this website, you will be able to enter your location and find the nearest Fraxel  re:store Dual laser treatment near you. Hopefully this will be what you are looking for in a laser acne scar removal treatment.

Have you wondered about or looked into an acne scar removal treatment and thought “Yes, that would be great”?

Depending on how badly you want it, you start looking at prices, the procedures, before and after pictures – but have you got a checklist to find the best and most professional person for the job?

Acne Scar Removal Treatment - Make Sure It Is Safe

Reading recently about a fake doctor injecting cement, paraffin and tire sealant, to create “better curves” into a woman who wants a more shapely bottom “at a cheap price” just send shivers down my spine.

Worse yet, this ‘patient’ was so embarrassed about what has happened to her that she only told the truth to a medical doctor after her mother took her to a hospital and with much prompting.

In a day and age where every part of our body seems fixable and there are all kinds of places and facilities available to cater to our whims; this story has just reminded us all that finding a reputable and qualified doctor or practitioner is all important.

Especially for our faces.

So in view of this, here is a checklist of eight questions to ask (courtesy of Medicinenet.com)  if you are thinking of doing acne scar removal treatment:

1) What are the doctor’s qualifications and training?

Let’s face it, anyone can claim to be qualified for certain cosmetic procedures but are they certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (or any recognized board in your own country)?  There are special training and exams to be passed before one can perform plastic surgery, has your doctor got the proper qualifications?

2) What are the doctor’s experiences and what are their specialized fields?

Plastic surgery could be anything from laser acne scar removal treatment to breast implant to liposuction which are all very specialized and different. Just because the doctor is qualified does not mean he or she is qualified for the particular procedure you want. So make sure you see the right specialist.

3) Where will the procedure be done?

If a hospital, are you happy with that hospital and are they accredited? If it is done at their own premises, do they have qualified staff and the proper equipment to do the procedure? Is there a plan B if things go wrong?

4) Is the doctor asking you questions?

Questions such as why you want it done and how it will impact your life after the procedure. In some cases, doctors will ask the patient to get a psychological evaluation just to make sure they are not asking for cosmetic surgery for the wrong reasons. They will also give you time to make a decision and will not pressure you into making a hasty one.

5) Have all the details of the procedure been adequately and honestly covered?

Things such as the actual procedure in detail, what is to be expected, the recovery time, potential for something going wrong, what can be expected, any side effects, after care and so on. If you are presented with before and after photos, make sure these results are typical and not just one in a thousand.

6) Is this particular procedure you are looking at good for you?

In other words, are you a good candidate? If you cannot follow certain after care routines for example, then you would not be a good candidate. Make sure you are honest when you discuss your expectations with your doctor.

7) Can you speak with former patients who have had this procedure done?

Better yet, do you know someone who has had it done and recommends it? If not, can you speak with some former patients? All the convincing photos in the world will not convince you more than if a friend or an acquaintance has had a satisfactory experience.

8. Can you afford it?

What are the payment plans (if any) or cost of the procedure plus any after care expenses. Will you need additional funds aside from the actual surgery for things not covered? Remember, insurance does not cover cosmetic surgeries in many incidences so check your financial situation before jumping in.

Remember, it pays to spend a little more time to research, ask around and make inquiries for the best acne scar removal treatment so that you can get the best results for you.

DermaSweep Epi-Infusion

Your Vacuum Cleaner for Acne Free Skin

Before I go into the DermaSweep Epi-Infusion procedure for acne and acne scars, I need to have a little rant about spot squeezing.

To Squeeze or Not to Squeeze – That is The Question

You know how everyone goes on about not squeezing your spots? How it will increase scarring, inflame the blemishes further and does nothing for improving acne skin?

Well, I don’t entirely agree.

I think black and white heads should be removed before they get even bigger and more inflamed. A blackhead not removed just enlarges the pore further and it looks terrible. Not only that, I just don’t think any cream or lotion will “melt” the spots away. Maybe with time, but why not just get rid of the spot and start the healing process as soon as you can?

So should you go running to the mirror and start squeezing?

Yes and No. There is a way to do this properly and more importantly, cleanly so that more bacterial does not enter your open pores.

In fact, get it done professionally by someone who understands and has experience working on acne skin. For the longest time as a teenager I went to a beautician that specialized in cleaning my face through steaming the pores open, extracting the blackheads and impurities, putting on a special mask and applying antiseptic lotion on various blemished areas.

Sure I was red and raw for a few days and some of the acne did flare up again, but by and large, my skin got better with time. The action of steaming, extracting impurities and closing the pores under sanitized and professional settings finally (after about 4-6 months) got my skin looking normal again.

Following up with a good and consistently daily cleansing routine as well as eating properly also helped.

Now there is a procedure called DermaSweep Epi-infusion that is going to take this one step further.

DermaSweep is a medical procedure whereby the skin is gently lifted through a vacuum pump action and the skin is gently brushed with their special bristle brushes.

The procedure uses particle free technology and  is more gentle and kinder to the skin. It does not use the normal procedure of micro blasting with crystals or sand, which can be painful and harsher on the skin.

Epi-Infusion is where topical solutions are added specifically to your skin’s requirements whilst the exfoliating action is underway.

Here is an explanation from their website’s FAQ

“DermaSweep Epi-Infusion treatments combine exfoliation with the delivery of skin specific topical solutions, leaving patients with fresher feeling and better looking skin.

DermaSweep’s topical solutions are formulated to treat specific dermatological conditions. The solution is applied under vacuum pressure at the same time the system exfoliates the epidermis.

Physicians render an effective treatment tailored to each patient’s unique skincare needs.

The following is a short list of topical solutions and skin conditions that can be addressed with the Epi-Infusion wand:

• Acne- Salicylic Acid, a medicated solution for the treatment of Acne and clogged pores
• Dehydration- Hyaluronic Acid containing Aloe Vera and Chamomile. This solution is especially formulated for normal to dry, combination and sensitive skin.
• Hyperpigmentation- This skin brightening solution with hydroquinone, azelaic acid and kojic acid works to lighten pigmentation.”

What it is Good for:

Acne skin, acne scars, blackheads, oily skin, uneven textured skin, sun damaged skin, pigmentation, fine wrinkles and dry skin.

Side Effects:

The procedure does not have any side effects although your skin will look a little pink for about half and hour after the procedure. Some people have reported redness and bruising but it depends on your skin type.

After Care:

Sun protection of at least 15 and do not use any type of products with acid on your face such as salicylic acid. Wash your face gently too and follow instructions from your medical adviser.

Cost

Price upon application.

 
Read original article 1 and article 2 here

Is Tretinoin for Acne Treatment Effective?

Tretinoin for Acne

Getting acne does not mean you will be scarred for life as a lot of acne heals and disappears by themselves over time. The most you can expect is hyper pigmentation of the skin which fades sooner or later.

When the acne on your skin becomes infected, it penetrates deeper inside the skin ‘s layers and damages the collagen in the dermal layer.

The skin’s tissue gets even further damaged by inflammation increases, and as your skin scrambles to heal the inflammation and repair the damage, scars occur from the healing process.

The severity of the scars is determined in part by the severity of the acne inflammation and by your skins ability to heal.

What is Tretinoin?

Tretinoin is also known as Retin-A; a retinoid and the acid form  of vitamin A. Aside from acne, tretinoin is also used for treating other skin damages done by the sun or from aging. It is used topically and can be purchases in gel or cream form.

Using Tretinoin for Acne – Start with a small amount

You need to use tretinoin under medical supervision. As everyone’s skin is different, your reaction to tretinoin will also vary. It is best to start off with a small dosage and gradually increase it over time to give your skin a chance to get used to it.

The best time to use tretinoin is in the evenings just before going to bed. As some people have experienced redness and itching when they first apply it, it is a case of looking worse before looking better.

Don’t expect overnight miracles

This does not mean however that tretinoin will work overnight and you will wake up with fresh unblemished skin, it can take anything up to 12 weeks before visible results are seen, so you need to be patient and persistent.

Make sure your face is thoroughly cleansed by a recommended product from your doctor, and that you apply the right moisturizer to protect your skin.

Tretinoin can be very drying

Tretinoin has quite a dramatic drying effect on some skin so it is best to moisturize properly to avoid too much “dry skin flaking” syndromes.

Then apply the medication as indicated. During the day, be aware that using tretinoin will make your skin more sensitive to the sun’s rays, so you may need to wear a sunblock or a big hat or both.

How Does Tretinoin for Acne Work?

Tretinoin works as a natural exfoliant as well as promoting collagen production, essential to keeping your skin healthy. It also combats bacteria and promotes new cell generation.

It works by gently removing the top layer of your skin so that mild scarring will gradually lessen and disappear, allowing newer skin cell to replace the damaged tissue.

As it concentrates on killing bacteria, you may experience skin irritation, redness, itching and a burning sensation. This is also why a gradual increase in the strength of the product is recommended.

This is a treatment that takes time to be effective. If you do not see results within a week or two don’t despair, keep at it and the desired results will happen. If you are at all unhappy or find that this treatment might not be for you, speak with your doctor or dermatologist.

Remember that tretinoin for acne is not for everyone. Consult your doctor before using this treatment and follow your doctor’s instructions for best results.

Tretinoin for Acne – Products you may like to try :

VITAMIN SERUM 1.7 oz/50ml. (Retinol Retin-a)
Afirm 2x .30% Retinol 1.05oz

Posts for other acne scar treatments:

Hypertrophic keloid scar removal

How to remove acne scars with punch excision

Remove acne scars with dermabrasion

What is Acne Cyst Treatment?

Acne Cyst Treatment

Deep cysts, inflammation, extensive damage to the skin and scarring characterize severe acne. It often requires an aggressive acne cyst treatment regimen and should be treated by a dermatologist.

Severe forms of acne can require years of treatment and may experience one or more treatment failures. However, almost every case of acne can be successfully treated.

There are five popular acne cyst treatments, and many are effective treatments that are available currently:

1. Drainage and surgical excision,
2. inner lesion corticosteroid injection,
3. isotretinoin (a potent drug for treating severe cystic acne),
4. oral antibiotics, and
5. oral contraceptives

Some people may choose a more natural treatment for severe acne, which will also be covered briefly in this article.

Drainage and extraction, or acne surgery is a procedure performed by qualified doctors and is used on some large cysts that do not respond to acne cyst treatment and require drainage and extraction.

Dermatologists are trained in the proper technique of drainage and extraction and perform acne surgery under clean sterile conditions. Patient who attempt to drain and extract acne cysts themselves through squeezing or picking, can lead to skin inflammation, worsening of the acne and scarring.

When an acne cyst becomes severely infected, there is a good chance it will rupture and scarring will occur. To treat these severely inflamed cysts and prevent scarring, dermatologists may inject the cysts with a diluted corticosteroid.

This will lessen the inflammation and encourage the skin to heal the acne cyst. An inner lesion corticosteroid injection works by melting the cyst over the course of a few days.

Isotretinoin for Acne Cyst Treatment

Isotretinoin is the most effective treatment known today for severe acne and acne that is resistant to other medications and treatments. Isotretinoin is a form of vitamin A, a synthetic creation, which comes in a pill form.

It is administered once or twice a day for anywhere from sixteen to twenty weeks total.

There are however, many possible side effects that may occur while undergoing this therapy. Possible side effects include severe pain in the chest or abdomen, trouble swallowing or painful swallowing, severe headache, blurred vision or dizziness, bone and joint pain, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea or rectal bleeding, depression, dryness of the skin, eyes and nose, and thinning hair.

While taking isotretinoin patients are monitored closely by their health care provider through follow up appointments.

Antibiotics for Acne Cyst Treatment

Oral antibiotics have been a basis of therapy for severe acne for many years. Like topical antibiotics, oral antibiotics work to reduce the “P. acnes”. “P. Acnes” are normal residents on the skin, which decreases inflammation.

Treatment with oral antibiotics usually begins with a high dosage, which is eventually reduced as the acne resolves. Over time, the “P. acnes” bacteria can become resistant to the treatment. When resistance occurs, another antibiotic can be prescribed or other treatment options may need to be explored.

Oral contraceptives have been shown to effectively clear acne in women by suppressing the overactive sebaceous glands.

Oral contraceptives can be used as long-term acne therapy; however, this medication should not be prescribed to women who smoke, have a blood clotting disorder, are older than thirty-five or have a history of migraine headaches, without the advice of a gynecologist.

Synthetic Steroid for Acne Cyst Treatment

Spironolactone, a synthetic steroid, may be used in combination with oral contraceptives to treat acne cyst  in adult females. Spironolactone inhibits androgen, hormones that stimulate oil glands in addition to other effects on the body production.

There are possible side effects that may accompany Spironolactone treatment. A few side affects include irregular menstruation, breast tenderness, headache and fatigue.

Some people choose more natural ways to combat acne cyst. Some natural treatments are eating a whole foods diet that consists of only natural foods that have not been chemically or mechanically processed.

Yoga or deep relaxation techniques may be used to reduce the amount of stress that is put on the body and the mind.

Essential oils are another natural treatment that may be added to the diet of sufferers of severe acne. These are just a few of the natural methods of treatment for acne cyst.

No matter what method of acne cyst  treatment you decide to try you should always consult a professional, whether it is your dermatologist or an herbalist. Your doctor should be able to refer you to a board certified dermatologist if needed.

Video For Acne Cyst Removal :

Related articles for acne cyst treatment:

• Acne surgery for treatment of acne (realself.com)
• Cystic Acne Symptoms (gospelofreason.com)

TCA Chemical Peel

Recommended by Specialist for Acne Skin

Acne, pimples, sunspots, age spots, wrinkles and other blemishes are skin conditions that plague people the world over. The global beauty industry already makes billions of dollars every year as women and men everywhere embark on quests to preserve (or achieve) a youthful, glowing appearance.

Responding to this need, dermatologists, and other specialists continue to look for the best and safest treatments and formulations to combat skin ailments, the most common of which is acne.

Apart from the services offered at skin clinics, many creams, gels and ointments that claim to treat acne, diminish sun or age spots and enhance skin elasticity are widely available in the market.

There are scrubs, cleansers, masks, over-the-counter skin medicine and skin peel formulations, all offered at various price ranges. Most can be bought at department stores or drugstores, but the fact is the results can be mixed.

The latest medical research has shown that what does work as a proven treatment for acne, are acne skin peels. Plastic surgeon Dr. Keith Leiberman explains: “Unlike other techniques, TCA chemical peels get to the root of the problem with acne, resulting in tremendously effective results – leaving the patient with noticeably fresher, smoother skin and great texture…without the acne! ”

The TCA chemical peel, or trichloroacetic acid skin peel, is recommended by many doctors and skin specialists as an acne peel because it is a medium-strength treatment that is among the safest, most effective, as well as easiest to use.

It sloughs off layers of dull dead skin that may cover up the source of acne. It also enhances the blood flow and circulation in the skin, promoting skin cell rejuvenation and the build up of skin-strengthening collagen and elastin.

TCA Chemical Peel vs Conventional Skin Peel

Conventional skin peel treatments that involve suction-type dermabrasion can cause damage, as it can bruise the skin and break some small blood vessels.

Those who wish to treat their acne and other skin problems with TCA peels for acne can control the strength of the treatment by starting off with a weak solution and gradually working their way up to more concentrated mixtures as needed.

Follow Instructions & Start with a Milder Strength Peel

TCA can be mixed with other previously prepared creams such as Obagi or applied directly. It is important to remember that TCA skin peels should not exceed more than 20 minutes on one’s skin. The time limit generally depends on the strength or concentration of the mixture and the type of skin you have.

Because of the chemical content, doctors recommend applying a neutralizer, such as a simple mixture of baking soda and water, to calm and stabilize the skin after the TCA chemical peel is applied. Users should wait about six months before applying another treatment.

TCA facial peels are great for treating acne and less expensive than clinic or spa-based treatments. There are many offers for this effective acne peel treatment at a fraction of the price one would normally pay per session or treatment at salons and spas. Well worth looking into are :

Lighten & Lift Extra Strength Chemical Peel Solution with TCA, Azelaic Acid and a special lightening cocktail

TCA Peel 25% By True Radiance Will Exfoliate and Sluff Dead Skin.

Hypertrophic Keloid Scar Removal

Different Removal Methods, Approaches and Products

Hypertrophic Keloid Scar

Hypertrophic and keloid scars are the results of an abnormal mass of dense tissue formation at the healing site when the skin fights off inflammation. It will look raised and usually has a pink or purple color.

Hypertrophic scars are more common and are less severe than keloid scars.

Hypertrophic scars do not ‘grow’ or ‘spread’ and usually fade away with time. With keloid scars, there is a tendency or possibility that it will ‘grow’ and spread’ and generally, they are more difficult to remove.

Exactly who gets keloid scars depends very much on genetics and family history, although African Americans and Latin Americans are more susceptible to this type of raised scarring.

For hypertrophic scars, which are more common, anyone from any ethnic background can get them.

However, everyone heals in a different way no matter what ethnic background. The same injury or scar could fade quickly without trace on some people, whilst others will develop visible scars that is very obvious.

Products for Hypertrophic Keloid Scar Removal

There are products on the market such as ScarGuard MD 1oz/30ml or Kelo-cote for scars which will help flatten and smooth out keloid scars. These products are typically for surgery scars but can also be applied to acne keloid scars. Results do not happen overnight though and you will need to use it for 45 days+ to see significant results, so be patient.

A product that is also recommended is Mederma¿ Cream with SPF 30, 1.76-Ounce Tubes It has a sun protection factor of 30+ which protects the skin from uv rays that could darken existing scar tissues. This is a good option for those with discolorations on or around their scars.

Another product that is good for raised keloid scars is the ScarAway Professional Grade Silicone Scar Treatment Sheets – Full Dr. Recommended 12 Week Supply,  this is in sheet form much like a bandage and is great for large and small scars. The pressure from the sheet will also help reduce swelling and speed up the healing process.

If the above treatments are not sufficient, you may want to consider interferon or corticosteriod injections.

Interferon or Corticosteriod Injections for Hypertrophic Keloid Scar Removal:

These injections usually come in a course of 4-6 or more depending on what your dermatologist suggests. Cortisone is injected into the scar tissue, usually once a month, and the results will be closely monitored.

Normally, results can be seen after 3-4 injections where the raised tissue will be flatter and less obvious.

If the scar is small and your skin fair, liquid nitrogen or cryotherapy could be used to freeze it off.

IPL Laser Treatment for hypertrophic keloid scar removal

More and more dermatologists are also using intense pulsed light (IPL) laser treatment for raised hypertrophic keloid scar removal. It will smooth out the scars, reduce redness and lessen uncomfortable itching.

What works best depends on the individual, the severity of the scars, how an individual responds to treatment and whether a combination of two (interferon injections and cryotheraphy together have reported good results) or even three treatments (a combination of two of the above treatments with surgery for example) may be the answer.

As always, discuss the options with your dermatologist or plastic surgeon for the best hypertrophic keloid scar removal treatment; but don’t leave it too long – the sooner you deal with it, the better the chances of successful scar removal.

Video : Hypertrophic Keloid Scar Removal

Related articles for hypertrophic keloid scar removal:

• Acne Scar Removal Treatment (slideshare.net)

Why Should You Use

Alpha Lipoic Acid Acne Treatments?

Alpha Lipoic Acid is a potent water and oil soluable antioxidant that fights free radicals on its own, as well as with other vitamins such as vitamin C and E. It helps in the production of glutathione and helps the body absorb CoEnzyme Q10. It is also instrumental in fighting degenerative diseases such as heart disease and diabetes.

So what has alpha lipoic acid and acne treatment got in common?

Well, it seems that certain users have found alpha lipoic acid applied topically reduces scar marks on their faces.

Watch this video from the acclaimed skin care specialist Dr. Perricone:

Dr. Perricone – Alpha Lipoic Acid used Topically

1) As a vitamin supplement – Make sure you take a good multi vitamin also.

Alpha Lipoic Acid – Timed Release (300mg)

2) A light weight serum applied at night.

Dmae Alph Lip, Est-C Serum, 2 oz ( Multi-Pack)

(Unfortunately, the item above can only be shipped to the 48 contiguous states  and there is only 4 left!)

3) A day cream to protect you skin.

Janson Beckett Alpha Lipoic Acid Vitamin C Ester & DMAE Moisturizing Day Cream

4) And for men

Reviva Men Alpha Lipoic Night Cream

If in doubt about alpha lipoic acid, please consult your doctor first.

Related articles for alpha lipoic acid acne :

• Health Tip: Caring for Acne-Prone Skin (nlm.nih.gov)
• Celebrating Ground-Breaking Alpha Lipoic Acid Discovery (prweb.com)

Are you suffering from acne depression?

Acne depression is not a matter of treating just surface imperfections, it often means treating the emotional and psychological effects it has on one’s well being as well.

More often than not, the psychological effect of having faulty or uneven skin could affect us socially- making us feel awkward, self-conscious, withdrawn and even depressed. Hence the acne depression.

How to Treat Acne Depression

Teenage acne depression

Teenagers tend to suffer most emotionally from acne, acne scars and acne depression. At a time when physical appearances are all important, blemished skin could lead to social withdrawal and/or depression.

This acne depression could manifest itself in behaviors such as mood swings, erratic responses, appetite loss and feelings of uselessness.

Teenage Girls

To combat their acne depression, teenage girls will wear heavy make-up, grow their hair long so that it can partially cover their face or just shy away from all others avoiding eye contact.

Teenage Boys

Boys also suffer acne depression, often appearing ill at ease, avoiding contact (shuffling in the background looking at the floor) and sporting long hair that will cover their faces as much as possible. They would keep away from sports such as swimming if they have truncal (body) acne.

Avoiding Social Contact

Often, ‘sick days’ are taken to avoid social contact or there may be a lack of desire to go to school completely. Adolescents can be cruel and taunt those who have ‘zits’ or ‘spots’ (‘pizza face’ was a particularly cruel one I remember).

Peer pressure to always look perfect and flawless and constant media bombardment of ‘perfect’ celebrities further aggravates self esteem, stifling bonding and relationship building with the same or opposite sex.

Self Esteem Takes a Big Blow

To them it is not just a ‘passing phase’. It is real and constant and a huge dent in their self-esteem. Proper medical treatment is just the start because there is also the task of  building up confidence again and re-learning social skills.

A different approach towards acne skin care, acne diet and acne vitamins is also essential to combat acne depression.

Seek Medical Advise

If you or anyone you know exhibit symptoms of acne depression due to acne, immediate medical advise should be sought. Often, a dose of prescribed medication, or a specific cream or lotion will alleviate the problem.

For more severe cases of acne depression – watch out for statements such as “I don’t want to wake up in the mornings”, or “I am worthless” – medical advice on acne depression should be consulted as soon as possible.

Related articles about how to prevent acne depression

• Acne Leads to Stress and Low Self-Esteem (health.yahoo.com)
• Fight Acne with Vitamins and Over the Counter Products (thindependence.com)