Acne is the most common skin disorder treated in the United kingdom. Although it
is typically associated with the teen population, acne can affect those in their
20s, 30s, 40s, and beyond. Up to 80 percent of adolescents develop acne to some
degree. It usually develops earlier in girls than in boys, but it affects boys more
frequently and more severely. Acne can persist into mid-adulthood in some individuals
and can even be present into late adulthood. Scarring affects 95% of acne sufferers
to some degree.
In an American Association of Dermatologists (AAD) study, it was found that acne
is especially distressing for teens, causing both emotional damage as well as physical
scars. The AAD also found that a misconception exists in some segments of society
that adults with acne are socially, intellectually, and sexually immature.
The study also determined that acne sufferers:
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Are less likely to involve themselves in social activities
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Are less likely to wear swimsuits
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Are more likely to complain about pain
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Have a higher incidence of neuroses, low self-esteem, poor academic performance,
anger, paranoia, insomnia, hypersomnia, anorexia, hyperphagia, and social isolation
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Are more likely to seek medical care
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Are more likely to commit suicide.
Acne is not curable, but it is highly treatable.
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What is Acne?
Acne is the common term for plugged or clogged pores, which results in blackheads
and whiteheads, pimples, and deeper nodules and cysts in the skin.
Many myths have developed over the years about the causes of acne. Many people believe
that certain foods make them break out and that abstaining from these foods can
prevent breakouts. However, scientific research has not shown chocolate, fries,
and oily diets to cause breakouts.
Whether acne is affected by other dietary factors is still uncertain. In 2002, Loren
Cordain, Ph.D., Professor of Health and Exercise Science at Colorado State University,
published a study identifying a relationship between acne and diets high in sugar.
Study subjects with high sugar diets developed an imbalance between two important
hormones in the follicles, stimulating abnormal follicular exfoliation, resulting
in acne. Research on the relationship between diet and acne continues.
Dirt on the skin also does not cause acne, according to studies. In fact, excessive
scrubbing, especially with abrasive cleansers and facial sponges, may actually exacerbate
the condition.
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