Acne & Depression: Closely Linked
 A
study published in the British
Journal of Dermatology found
that acne patients
experience social, psychological, and emotional ramifications at the
same level of those with chronic health problems, such as epilepsy, diabetes,
and arthritis.
Another recent study from a group of Toronto-based scientists showed
a clear link between skin
conditions and
teenagers and young adults perceived self worth. The study showed
that an overwhelming number of teens deal with skin problems (over
85%) and of that group, a majority had feelings ranging from mild
depression to severe. Depression and anxiety are more common in
those with acne than the general population.
Many teenagers ostracize the severity of their acne and said it
was a cause of depression and in some cases lead to suicide. In a
society that places great emphasis on appearance, acne sufferers
often feel uncomfortable or embarrassed.
How could mental-health problems actually exacerbate acne?
Under stress the growth of nerve fibers near sebaceous glands is
stimulated, which in turn contributes to the increased production of
sebum � the fatty substance that combines with cell debris and dead
skin cells to form those familiar blackheads and
pustules. On the other hand people with mental distress tend to eat
more junk food (excess salt & fat). Thus leading to building up of a
vicious cycle.
According to Time Online, in a study done by Statistics Norway, it
was found that there is a linear relationship between mood and acne. It was
discovered during this study that the more severe the acne was, the worse the
depression symptoms were as well.
Finding Solution
 Taking care of yourself, shunning away depression signals and feeling good
about your body, can give you a lift when you need it most.
-
A Pyramid Diet: A
lifestyle tracking program, found in 2011 that 42 percent increase in
depression risk was found with those consuming fast
food. Additionally, the increase in depression risk was just as high
with the consumption of baked goods and junk food. Diets high
in sugar, refined carbohydrates and trans
fats, and low in antioxidants, create systemic inflammation, which
manifests itself in your skin in the form of acne, rosacea, or premature aging. Follow
a healthy diet based on cereals, fruits and vegetables. To maintain
recommended vitamins and minerals levels, a good quality brand name
multivitamin will help with acne prevention. Combine this with drinking
plenty of fluids throughout the day and making good, healthy
dietary food choices.
-
Sleep Well: A lack of
a quality sleep can cause stress and even lead to depression. It can cause
increased insulin resistance, inflammatory cytokines, weight gain & leave
you with low energy and productivity levels during the day. The two main concerns for
acne are the increases in insulin resistance and the inflammation. Increased
insulin resistance means that your bodies ability to use glucose is reduced.
This could lead to acne as well as other health issues such as diabetes.
Recognize the fact that you are not getting enough good sleep,
if that's the case and them go about making changes in your lifestyle. Going
to sleep with make-up on can clog your pores, don't forget to clean your
face before retiring. In addition, be sure to throw out old make-up and
wash make-up brushes and applicators regularly with soapy water to help
keep your skin clear.
-
Exercise, a Must: Indulging
in regular exercise improves
the blood circulation, and that helps the body receive cleaner oxygen.
Sweating while training vigorously carries out the toxins that build up
inside your body, thus purifying it. Exercise releases endorphins into the
body. Endorphins are neurochemicals that affect a person's mood, making him
feel better and more cheerful. That reduces stress, which in turn reduces
acne. When you�re finished with your workout, get out of clothing wet from
perspiration or water sports. Shower and change into dry, clean clothing.
And keep your sports gear and equipment clean, too. Dirty headgear, for
instance, can irritate forehead areas prone to acne problems. So toss
headbands into the washing machine after workout sessions. Avoid
the use of makeup when you exercise.
-
 Use
products labeled �noncomedogenic� or �oil-free.�:
Shimmering facial colors can contain a flaky mineral called mica that can
cause skin irritations and clog pores. Other additives in coloring that can
cause similar reactions are coal tar derivatives, carmine and heavy cream in
blushes. Use a lip gloss that promotes a matte finish instead of a high
gloss for less pore-clogging; note the more the shine, the more then
comedogenic content and the more the pores can clog. Beware that eye creams
can contain heavier concentrations of moisturizers than regular creams and
lotions, meaning they have greater potential to clog pores in the
surrounding facial areas.
-
Stay Clean: Keep
your hair clean and off your face. Avoid resting your hands or objects such
as telephone receivers on your face. And remember that tight-fitting clothes
and hats can contribute to acne, especially if you wear these items during
workouts or activities where you will be sweating.
-
Consult a Dermatologist: Acne
is difficult to treat as no one treatment works for everybody. However,
seeking treatment and being aggressive about finding something that works as
soon as the acne appears may prevent the lasting psychological effects
associated with chronic acne.
Quality of life is greatly impacted by acne, Take action, now!
For more:
Dated 08 August 2012
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