Adolescents aged 12-17 report high levels of stress due to acne problems
The Taiwan Acne and Rosacea Society recently released a poll, revealing insights into the impact of acne on adolescents and their academic performance. The survey involved 1,000 people aged 12 to 25, separated into three categories: those with acne, those with acne scarring, and those without acne.
The poll revealed that 71% of respondents aged 12 to 17 believe acne would affect their studies and academic performance. This anxiety is severe enough to affect their studies, with more than 90% of people aged 12 to 17 who participated in the poll experiencing anxiety due to acne.
Respondents with acne or acne scarring are more conscious of their appearance and how they are perceived in society. Eighty-eight percent of respondents with acne or acne scarring believe they could look better. This self-criticism extends to their perception of attractiveness in others, with respondents with acne or acne scarring more prone to self-criticism when they see attractiveness in others.
The poll also highlighted the lack of medical assistance sought for acne. Only 5% of respondents sought medical assistance for acne, and 60% of respondents expressed regret at not seeking treatment earlier. Seventy percent of respondents hope to find a treatment that ameliorates scarring.
Effective treatments for adolescent acne include topical therapies such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and retinoids; oral medications like antibiotics or hormonal treatments for persistent or cystic acne; and professional interventions including chemical peels, facials, and blue light therapy. Establishing a consistent skincare routine with non-comedogenic, gentle products is crucial for success and often requires ongoing adherence over several weeks to months.
Early treatment is important because untreated acne in adolescents can last on average nine years, with about 15% risking permanent scarring. Beyond the physical effects, acne significantly impacts self-esteem, social interactions, and academic performance due to emotional distress. Early intervention can reduce scarring and improve psychological well-being during a critical developmental stage, which in turn helps adolescents maintain better confidence and focus in academic settings.
Parents and caregivers can support teens by encouraging consistent hygiene habits tailored to reducing triggers, providing emotional support, and seeking professional dermatological advice when over-the-counter products fail or when acne causes pain, widespread lesions, or emotional distress. Multimodal treatment regimens led by dermatologists are recommended to address both the physical and emotional impacts effectively.
Dr. Huang Yu-hui, a doctor at Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital's Department of Dermatology, stated that acne forms due to over-secretion of oils from the sebaceous glands, abnormal keratinization, or inflammation caused by Cutibacterium acnes. If acne cannot be prevented by skincare routines, or if a person develops reddened acne, pustules, or nodules, they should seek medical assistance, Huang said. Treatments for acne differ depending on the cause, according to Huang.
In summary, the poll highlights the emotional and academic impact of acne on adolescents, the lack of medical assistance sought, and the importance of early and consistent treatment. Parents and caregivers play a crucial role in supporting teens in managing their acne, and multimodal treatment regimens led by dermatologists are recommended for effective management of both the physical and emotional impacts of acne.
Science shows that acne can significantly impact the mental health of adolescents, with 90% of those aged 12 to 17 experiencing anxiety due to it. In the realm of health-and-wellness, effective skin care, such as topical therapies and establishing a consistent routine, can help manage acne symptoms while improving mental health. Moreover, mental health, including self-criticism and comparing oneself to others, is more prevalent among adolescents with acne or acne scarring, highlighting the need for holistic treatments that attend to both physical health and mental wellness.
