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psychological effect of having faulty or uneven skin could affect us socially- making us feel awkward, self-conscious, withdrawn and even depressed.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.

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)