Acne is usually not a serious health threat, but it can be upsetting and, in severe cases, lead to permanent scarring.
While acne rarely poses a direct risk to overall physical health, its impact can be significant:
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Psychological Effects: Acne can lead to feelings of self-consciousness, embarrassment, anxiety, and depression, particularly among teenagers and young adults. The visibility of acne on the face and other areas can negatively affect self-esteem and social interactions.
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Scarring: Severe acne, especially cystic acne, can result in permanent scarring. These scars can be disfiguring and difficult to treat, potentially requiring procedures like laser resurfacing or surgical excision.
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Hyperpigmentation: After acne lesions heal, they can leave behind areas of darkened skin (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation). This is more common in people with darker skin tones.
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Pain and Discomfort: Inflammatory acne can be painful and tender to the touch, interfering with daily activities.
For most individuals, acne tends to resolve by the time they reach their 30s. It originates in the skin's oil glands, where oils travel up a follicle containing a hair. Acne develops when these follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells.
Although typically not life-threatening, appropriate management of acne is crucial to minimize physical and psychological consequences. Consulting with a dermatologist is recommended for moderate to severe acne, or if over-the-counter treatments are ineffective.
