Discussing acne is much simpler for me now than it was in the past. I’m not talking about society in general; I mean my own personal experience. As a teenager, during the worst of my acne, I found it nearly impossible to speak about it. I believed it was the first thing everyone noticed about me, and if any well-meaning adult brought it up, it left me feeling utterly crushed.
Recently, while reading about acne treatment, I was reminded of those difficult years, which stretched into my 30s. Fortunately, I eventually met a fantastic dermatologist who helped clear my skin. Now at 49, I still experience the occasional breakout—typically linked to my menstrual cycle—but it’s nothing compared to the past and no longer consumes my thoughts.
Acne is particularly cruel because it’s prominently displayed on your face, making it hard to conceal. While makeup can cover up a whitehead or a blemish, it can’t hide larger pimples or clusters. Acne results in two types of scars: physical and emotional, both of which can hold significant power.
The Physical Scars
As a young person, visiting the dermatologist felt torturous. The doctor would use a sharp instrument to extract my zits, a process that was not only painful but incredibly humiliating, leaving me a bloody mess. Watching others exit before me only heightened my anxiety, as their faces revealed what was coming. It was horrifying.
Thankfully, such practices have become obsolete. “Avoid squeezing or popping pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads to prevent scarring,” advises a recent article. I wish I had encountered this advice years ago; the scars I bear are a constant reminder.
One particularly eccentric dermatologist provided me with an exhaustive list of foods to avoid, sucking the joy out of eating. She told me to skip moisturizer (even though mine was oil-free), makeup (which at least helped smooth my complexion), and even conditioner. I eventually abandoned her regimen, as I wanted to maintain at least decent hair.
I opted not to use Accutane—a drug known to clear up skin but with a plethora of frightening side effects that deterred me. Instead, I found success with a combination of medications, prescription cleansers, and over-the-counter products. Dermatology has advanced significantly since then; a visit now offers sound advice and effective treatments.
Today’s dermatologists understand that chocolate and pizza don’t cause acne, so indulge guilt-free! Interestingly, I learned that iodine contributes to breakouts, making dairy and shrimp potential culprits. Even now, I notice breakouts after consuming a lot of shrimp, but sometimes, it’s worth it because I love it. Potatoes are high in iodine too—what a bummer.
Maintaining a clean face and resisting the urge to touch it can help. It’s also wise to keep hair away from your face, which is tricky if you’re using it to cover up imperfections. If you wear makeup, ensure it’s oil-free.
The Emotional Impact
Navigating adolescence with acne is incredibly challenging. Hurtful comments from strangers or well-intentioned adults can sting. Parents of teens dealing with acne should be mindful of casual remarks. Avoid discussing acne in front of others and support your child’s choices instead of criticizing their diet for potentially “causing” breakouts—such comments can hurt more than you realize.
When addressing acne with your teen, do so privately. Chronic acne isn’t merely a result of poor hygiene but can be exacerbated by it. Focus on finding a dermatological solution rather than just a cleansing routine.
Remember, acne is not a tragedy—it’s just a skin issue. While it may linger in your teen’s mind, try not to treat it as a catastrophe. It’s a delicate balance to discuss it casually while ensuring the conversation feels natural, but if you have a teenager, you’re likely already adept at this.
Though I no longer face severe acne, I still occasionally experience a breakout the size of a small continent, usually on my jawline, arriving just before my other features catch up. Thankfully, I can now joke about it—something I couldn’t do for years. I never thought I’d say this, but I’m grateful for the perspective that comes with middle age.
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In summary, while I have moved past the worst of my acne, the scars—both physical and emotional—remain. It’s vital to approach this topic with sensitivity, particularly when discussing it with teens. Acne may not define them, but it does leave an imprint that can linger long after the blemishes have faded.