Perception of Acne Sufferers Isn't Positive, Survey Shows

Tuesday June 16, 2009

Those of us with acne always feel that we're being critiqued by others. Do they notice our pimples? Are they judging us because of our skin?

A new survey shows this may be all too true.

The online survey, which was sponsored by the American Acne and Rosacea Society, sheds light on the perceptions society has of teens with acne. Participants were shown pictures of teen faces, some with clear skin and others with pimples digitally added in. They were asked to give their first impressions of the teens.

The clear-skinned teens were most often perceived as happy, confident, and intelligent. The pictures of the same teens, with acne, were labeled "shy," "nerdy," and "lonely." Teens with acne were also thought of as more likely to be bullied and less likely to date.

Obviously this points to the social stigma acne carries. If anything the survey reinforces the importance of treating acne as soon as possible.

I realize that we are all judged on the way we look. And, if we're honest, we will admit that we've done it ourselves. (Who hasn't been at the mall, hit their best friend in the arm, and said "Look at that person over there!") I'm just as guilty as anyone.

But seeing anyone judged because of their acne, or any skin problem, makes me really sad. What makes others judge so harshly? Is it our image obsessed culture, the perception that the sufferer has done something to cause acne? Or maybe it's because acne is such a visible disorder. Whatever it is, it's no wonder acne can leave lasting emotional scars.

Do you feel people look at you differently because you have acne? Has acne affected your self-image? I want to know how acne has impacted your life. Share your thoughts, feelings, and maybe even vent a little! Because there are plenty of people who feel exactly the way you do, and understand that you're still the same person, with or without acne.