Acne & You
The big bad ‘a’ word
Acne. Spots. Pimples. They’re a part of life. Many young people (and not so young people!) feel self conscious about their skin. For some it even stops them doing social things, despite how normal and common it is. It’s 
estimated that 85% of people between the ages of 12 and 24 have an acne outbreak at some point, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. With up to 55% of 20-40 year olds experiencing persistent low grade acne and oily skin.
Acne Myths
- Acne occurs because you don’t wash your face.
FALSE. People with acne often have the most complicated and well researched skin routines. Think before you speak; do you really think it’s as simple as just washing your face? There are lots of reasons why people get acne, with genetics playing a major role. Using harsh cleansers, and stripping the natural oils from your face can actually lead to more spots for some.
- It’s good to squeeze spots
FALSE. Noo, don’t do it! It might be tempting, but you can damage your skin, cause an infection, or push it even deeper into your skin. Apply something topical instead.
Not all acne is created equally
Did you know that there are lots of different types of acne? Acne vulgaris, open comedone, closed comedone, blackheads, whiteheads, papules, pustules, nodules, cysts, and acne conglobata to name a few. Even pronouncing some of those is difficult, never mind trying to figure out which one you have. So, If acne is getting you down you can visit your GP for advice and treatment. Your GP can refer you to a dermatologist if necessary, and discuss what type of acne it is. They are the experts, so take the guess work out of your skin woes and make an appointment.
Don’t let acne hold you back from living your life now, you are good enough as you are. If acne is affecting your self esteem, and you’d like to have a chat you can contact Donegal Youth Service.
Donegal Youth Service are a countywide youth organisation meeting the needs of young people. For more information about what they do, find out more on www.donegalyouthservice.ie, find them on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram, call (074) 91 29630, or pop in to 16-18 Port Road, Letterkenny. Charity No CHY 15027.
