New research into life with acne by leading global dermatological skincare brand La Roche-Posay has revealed that the impacts of the sensitive skin condition go far beyond skin deep.
Eight in 10 acne sufferers say that breakouts of the condition have a negative impact on their self-esteem and image of themselves. A staggering two thirds of acne sufferers confessed to having had negative comments made to them about their acne.
The La Roche-Posay ‘Life with Acne’ research marks the launch of the latest addition to the best-selling Effaclar range of skincare products for acne, oily, and blemish-prone skin, Effaclar Duo (+ ) Unifiant.
Two thirds of acne sufferers find breakouts stressful and more than half of people who suffer from acne are constantly self-conscious about their acne. Teenagers in particular suffer from negative feelings, with almost a third of respondents saying they were most self-conscious about acne until they were 18 years old.
Almost half say that breakouts put them in a bad mood and 40 per cent say that a breakout leads to a social media blackout for them.
Just over a quarter of sufferers claim they have had to cancel a date or meeting due to an acne breakout, while one in five have taken a sick day from work, school, or college.
According to Dr Niki Ralph, consultant dermatologist with La Roche-Posay, “The impact of acne and sensitive skin conditions on patients go much further than skin deep. Every day I meet patients who are struggling with acne and while much of my day is spent dealing with how to treat it, with the use of topical therapies, antibiotics, hormonal and retinoid-based therapies, the impact on patients’ confidence and self-esteem is often a major issue.
“Making lifestyle changes, finding a skincare routine that works for you, and seeing a dermatologist can all help with the physical aspects of acne but it is also important to find a way to deal with it emotionally.”
Irish YouTube vlogging sensation Melanie Murphy has seen a dermatologist for her acne for over 10 years. She said: “I made my breakthrough on YouTube by discussing my experience of acne. Once I figured out a skincare routine that worked for me and learned how to camouflage flare-ups with make-up, I was on a mission to share this information with others. My friends didn’t even know that I had acne. After I posted my first video... I took my make-up off in front of them, and they couldn’t believe it.”
