Acne is a common skin condition that affects people of all ages. It can range from mild to moderate to severe, and can cause physical, psychological, and emotional distress. The most common areas for acne are the face, the neck, the upper chest and back, and the shoulders. One of the most difficult aspects of the condition is the scarring it can leave behind after the acne has cleared up.  

 

Acne can take a toll on self-esteem and confidence. According to The American Academy of Dermatology, severe acne affects more than the skin. “People with acne or acne scarring are more likely to develop low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, poor quality of life, and feelings of isolation and loneliness.”  

 

 

Did you know? 

 

Acne peaks in adolescence and early adulthood, according to the Yale School of Medicine, affecting around 85 per cent of people between the ages of 12 and 24. However, over 25 per cent of women and 12 per cent of men in their 40s report having acne. 

 

 

  
TREATMENT OPTIONS 

 

Studies show that the longer acne lasts, the more likely it is to affect your emotions. Without treatment, acne can also worsen. And if the acne becomes severe, scars can appear as the acne clears. Early treatment can prevent emotional distress. 

The first step is a consultation with a dermatologist or skincare professional. They will examine the type of acne and scars you must determine the best treatment or combination of treatments for you, which can include any of the following: 

 

 

• Topical treatments 

 

Topical treatments are usually the first choice for those with mild to moderate acne. They come in the form of washes, gels, lotions and creams that are applied directly to the skin. They may be used alone or in combination with oral medication. Some are available over the counter and others are on prescription. They have various active ingredients, and some are combined to treat acne. They work at reducing inflammation and bacteria and help to unplug blocked pores. It can take up to 6-8 weeks before you notice an improvement with these topical treatments, so patience is key.

 

 

• Drug therapy

 

Drug therapy may be prescribed in circumstances where topical treatments have not worked or are not recommended. These include oral antibiotics, and for females, the oral contraceptive pill.  

 

 

• Medical procedures 

 

Thanks to modern technology, many procedures can remove or fade acne scars, making them less noticeable, and helping you to regain your self-confidence. These include: 

 

 

• Laser and light therapy 

 

During treatment, a painless beam of light is used to target acne scars. Laser and light therapy are typically combined with other treatments for maximum effectiveness such as chemical peels. 

 

 

• Chemical peels 

 

During a chemical peel, your dermatologist will apply a special chemical solution to your acne scars that removes the skin’s outer layer and stimulates new skin to grow. Usually, this new skin is much smoother and less scarred. 

 

 

• Micro needling

 

Micro needling treatment uses tiny needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the location of acne scars and then stimulates collagen production to encourage new, smoother skin to grow.  

 

 

• Soft-tissue fillers

 

This method is often recommended for depressed or atrophic acne scars. It involves injecting a filler directly into the scar to smooth the appearance of the skin. 

 

 

• Microdermabrasion  

 

This procedure involves a special machine that sprays tiny crystalline particles on the skin to remove the top layer. Similar to a chemical peel, this process reveals the typically smoother, less scarred skin underneath. 

 

 

• Laser resurfacing

 

For this treatment, a laser is used to remove the scarred top layers of skin so new, healthier skin can grow in its place.  

 

 

 

TOP TIPS TO IMPROVE YOUR SELF-CONFIDENCE 

 

If you suffer from low self-esteem due to acne or acne scarring, here are nine ways to boost your self-confidence.  

 

 

• Accept your scars– The first step to being confident with acne scars is to accept them as a part of your skin. Remember that everyone has imperfections, and your acne scars don’t define your worth or your beauty.

 

• Take care of your skin– Take care of your skin to prevent new breakouts and to make your skin look and feel healthier. Establish an effective skincare routine that focuses on nourishing and healing your skin. Use gentle skincare products and treatments specifically designed to target acne scars.

 

• Focus on your unique qualities– Shift your focus from your perceived imperfections to your unique qualities and strengths. Reframe negative self-talk with positive affirmations that are specific to your skincare journey, such as “I am not my acne” or “My skin is healthy.” 

 

• Use makeup techniques– If you feel self-conscious about your acne scars, you can use makeup to cover them up. There are many products available that can help to conceal scars and even out skin tone. However, make sure to use products that are non-comedogenic and won’t clog your pores. Professional makeup artists can also offer guidance on makeup techniques to conceal scars if that makes you feel more confident.

 

• De-stress– Stress doesn’t cause acne, but it can make the outbreaks you already have worse. That can make you even more stressed. So, find activities that make you relax and feel better. This can include activities such as yoga, meditation, and taking time to do things that you enjoy. Listening to music can also be a great stress reliever, as can spending time in nature. Take up a calming hobby and make time for it every day. 

 

• Practice self-care– Practicing self-care can help you feel more confident and comfortable in your own skin. Embrace self-care practices such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and quality sleep. These habits can improve your overall well-being and boost self-esteem.

 

• Exercise– Research shows that many people experience a decrease in acne breakouts when they exercise regularly. This is largely down to how exercise helps to lower inflammation in the body, including the skin. With inflammation being what triggers acne, exercising more could very well help you prevent your next breakout.

 

• Talk to others who struggle with their skin– Reach out to others through online forums and in-person meeting groups and employ the tips and tricks they’ve used over the years to cope. Other people with similar types of acne can help you find solutions while also providing you with valuable moral support. 

 

• Remind yourself that others don’t notice your flaws– Acne sufferers often imagine that other people are focusing on their physical imperfections. Very few people are paying attention to your acne. People will notice your personality over your pimples. Tell yourself this every time you begin to feel self-doubt or self-conscious. If acne is negatively impacting your self-esteem and confidence, it may be beneficial to seek professional help.