Bad acne in your teenage years can bring on social ostracism, low self-esteem, and poor body image, all of which may lead to greater risk of depression, HealthDay News reported March 17.
An analysis of 16 studies by researchers at the Wake Forest University School of Medicine found that 9 percent of teens with acne showed signs of depression, three to four times the norm. While the study’s authors said there were no direct biological links between acne and depression, the findings indicate acne’s social effect is significant. They encouraged teens with even milder forms of acne to seek treatment.
“Acne has a huge impact on people’s lives,” said lead co-author Steven R. Feldman, Ph.D. “Go ahead and see your doctor to get it treated, a primary care doctor or a dermatologist, before there’s scarring or psychological issues.”
The study appeared in the Dermatology Online Journal.
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