Acne is a skin related problem that is very common among teenagers. However, today more and more adults are suffering from this problem. Although the face is more prone to this problem, it can affect various parts of the body including the face, chest and back among others. It usually presents in form of eruptions of pimples or pustules on the affected areas. There are numerous psychological problems caused by adult acne as well as social consequences for the patient.
There are various causes of this problem in adults. It usually begins with the blockage of skin pores. When this happens, bacteria begins to grow as the oil glands that are attached to the follicles get inflamed. This problem usually advances in about 3 stages. The first is the mild stage which is usually experienced by a large number of people occasionally. This is characterized by whiteheads and blackheads.
If it is not treated, it is followed by a stage that is
moderately severe which presents in form of red pimples with white centers called pustules and red inflamed pimples called papules. The third stage is severe and may come in form of cysts and lumps filled with pus. These lumps are called nodules and could result to permanent scars that are severe.
An adult suffering from this ailment may suffer from psychological trauma. He may have low self-esteem and lack of self-confidence. This may make him reclusive and shy and he may have problems forming friendships. He may have a poor image of his body and may hate seeing himself in the mirror. Some people grow long hair to cover their faces, others avoid eye contact and some put on a lot of makeup to cover the acne.
Some of them risk their career growth by taking days off work. Majority of them do not perform well in job interviews because of the way they look and their lack of confidence. This explains why so many of them are unemployed. All these may lead to depression and stress. Some symptoms of stress and depression include loss of appetite, laziness, feeling unworthy and insomnia among others.
Socially, they may feel like misfits. They may not like going out because they feel self-conscious and embarrassed due to their condition. Those with pimples on their backs or chest may feel uncomfortable wearing swim-wear and backless dresses. They are not willing to take part in many other social activities and they gradually cut themselves off and they may become miserable and lonely.
This negative social effect could also limit their career choices. This means that this problem may stop them from reaching their full potential in their careers. For instance, they may avoid careers such as acting, marketing or modeling since they do not want to interact with other people due to their inferiority complex. The problem can thus affect all aspects of the person’s social life.
The good news is that today a wide range of treatments are available including natural and more complex treatments.. Even the most severe form is treatable in due time. To avoid developing the psychological problems caused by adult acne, it is important to deal with the problem early enough before it becomes severe. The method used may depend on personal preferences and the intensity of the problem.
