Emotional reactions to acne depend on the severity of the symptoms and signs. Because we all know skin with acne deviates from the concept of beauty and especially in adolescent sufferers it can lead to shyness, reduced self-esteem, social isolation, guilt, anger and even anxiety and depression. It should be noted that the more damage that accompanies acne, the higher the level of anxiety.
Acne can have a (negative) psychological impact that can cause many teens to walk around carrying a negative self-image that can stick to them and affect their beliefs and actions for the rest of their lives.
Parents can be an important piece of the puzzle. Sensitivity from those closest to them can help teens become more self-accepting and less self-blaming for some faults. Parents telling their children that they are beautiful, valuable, and special can provide an important psychological bridge over these turbulent feelings. Taking some “mirror time” to look beyond the pimple – while doing some positive self-affirmations can help too.
In more severe cases, supportive psychotherapy or hypnotherapy can be of benefit to any teenager who is willing to put in the time and effort. It will be very valuable.
Some teens suffer from the emotional stress and burnout caused by simply being a teenager. Higher levels of hormones and adrenaline can occur, which increases sebum production, and can eventually clog pores.
Severe acne outbreaks have also been reported after prolonged sleep deprivation. Beauty sleep is more important than ever, as we know skin cells are nourished and rejuvenated during sleep.
Not only can exercise improve blood circulation and bring more oxygen to the skin – it can also help calm the minds and emotions of teens suffering from 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 teen acne sufferers also see many sufferers in their 20s and 30s with difficult acne problems. It should come as no surprise that many of today’s adults are still dealing with adolescent issues, such as sexual or professional identity, separation from parents, and repressed anger. Psychological help for adults dealing with their teenage problems can actually clear their skin.