Teenage Emotions & Acne

Emotional reactions to acne depend on the severity of the symptoms and signs. Since we all know the skin with acne deviates from the concept of beauty and specially in teenage sufferers may lead to embarrassment, reduced self esteem, social isolation, guilt, anger and even frank anxiety and depression. It is noted that the more disfigurement accompanying the acne the higher the anxiety levels.

Acne can have a (negative) psychological impact that can lead many teenagers to walk around carrying negative self-images that can stick with them and affect their beliefs and actions for the rest of their lives.

Parents can be the crucial piece of the puzzle. Sensitivity from those closest to them can help teens be more self-accepting and do less self-flagellation for some supposed fault. Parents who tell their kids that they are beautiful, precious and special can provide an important psychological bridge over these turbulent feelings. Taking some “mirror time” to see beyond the pimples – while doing some positive self-affirmations can help too.

In more severe cases, supportive psychotherapy or hypnotherapy can benefit any teenager who is willing to put in the time and the effort. It will be worth it.

Several teenagers suffer emotional stress and fatigue brought on simply by being adolescents. Higher levels of hormones and adrenaline can result, which increases sebum production, and can eventually clog pores.

Severe acne outbreaks have also been reported after prolonged sleep deprivation. Beauty sleep becomes more important than ever, as we know skin cells are nourished and rejuvenated during sleep.

Exercise can not only increase blood circulation and bring more oxygen to the skin – it can also help soothe the mind and the emotions of teens bearing the agony of acne. In addition to plenty of sleep and exercise, relaxation techniques such as breathing exercises, yoga, self-hypnosis, meditation, or listening to relaxing music, have also been shown to be effective.

Psychologists who work with teenage acne sufferers also see many sufferers in their 20s and 30s with difficult acne problems. It should be no surprise that many of these adults are still dealing with adolescent issues, such as sexual or professional identity, separation from parents, and repressed anger. Psychological help for adults coping with their teen issues can actually clear up their skin.