A University of Pennsylvania psychologist says a number of studies have found negative psychological effects associated with adolescent acne.
David Sarwer, an associate professor at the Center for Human Appearance at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine in Philadelphia, said up to 50 percent of teenage acne sufferers also experience increased body image dissatisfaction, social anxiety, low self-esteem and symptoms of depression, USA Today reported Monday.
"Some become so upset they may think about or actually attempt suicide," Sarwer said.
Researchers say drugs and treatments developed in recent years offer new hope to sufferers of acne, which is caused when sebaceous glands in the skin create too much sebum oil, which can clog pores and mix with bacteria, causing inflammation.
Mild acne can be treated with over-the-counter medications containing benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid and sulfur, but unresponsive outbreaks and acne characterized by larger cysts may require the prescription drug isotretinoin. The drug derived from vitamin A is an effective treatment, but scares away some consumers due to its extensive list of side effects, including liver changes and birth defects in pregnant women.
Source: www.sciencedaily.com
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