Acne

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How many times in the last month have you looked at yourself in the
mirror and have been unhappy? Seeing the red bumps on your face, the
inflamed cheeks, the scarring and frantically using every type of
moisturizer or face wash you can find to cover up those annoying,
pesky pimples. However, acne is not just physically detrimental but
affects one mentally as well.

Acne forms when the hair follicles get clogged with oils, dirty skin
cells, and bacteria. Acne can be caused by stress/anxiety, genetics,
hormonal changes, periods, and diet, which are directly related to
teens, specifically teen girls. Acne has a significant impact on the
self-esteem and confidence of teen girls. As it's known, teenage years
are hard and stressful, and having acne just makes it all the worse,
leaving one feeling self-conscious and embarrassed. This may result in
them shying away from social activities and limiting their time spent
with family and friends, which is unhealthy.

Additionally, according to Johns Hopkins, teenage girls experience
acne at a younger age, compared to boys. This is because teenage girls
experience hormonal changes as they go through puberty. Their hormones
are constantly changing, leading their body to produce more oils,
resulting in clogged pores and acne. This usually occurs at 13 for
young girls.

Furthermore, teenage girls are also more prone to developing acne
because of their use of makeup and skincare products. Many makeup
products contain ingredients that can clog pores, and cause breakouts.
Many skincare products also contribute to breakouts and irritated
skin.

Lastly, the media often portrays clear skin as the “standard of
beauty” and is desirable to teenage girls. Due to this most feel like
having clear skin is necessary to be and feel “attractive.” This is a
very harmful and pernicious mindset as it leaves one feeling unworthy
and not valuable, affecting one's mental health.

Although many acne cases are mild and will resolve without the need
for medication, others may require professional help. However, this
professional help is inequitable, leaving people who cannot afford
treatment, helpless. According to CareCredit, the cost of acne
over-the-counter acne treatments range from $30-60 while prescription
acne treatments range from $45-$200 dollars. For many, these payments
hold a huge burden on the parents and the teen, leaving them feeling
even more insecure.

Despite insecurities being induced by acne, it is a very common
condition that many people experience and therefore should be
normalized. Feeling insecure and self-conscious about acne is also a
universal experience so don't beat yourself up about it! You're
beautiful no matter what<3

Works Cited:

https://www.yalemedicine.org/conditions/acne#:~:text=Clinical%20trial%20data%20revealed%20that,treatment%20options%20available%20to%20help.%E2%80%9D

https://www.hopkinsallchildrens.org/ACH-News/General-News/Acne-in-Adolescents-and-Young-Adults#:~:text=Adolescents%20and%20young%20adults%20between,acne%20even%20in%20their%2040s.