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For several of us, acne has been a harsh reminder of raging hormonal changes during our adolescent years and of the awkward teenage years that followed through. Unsolicited advice on getting rid of it shared by individuals would often haunt us at night– battling blemishes with one's self-esteem at an all time low was an adolescent norm. But what if we told you that those relentless breakouts paved the path for youthful ageing?
To corroborate the same, our team at OnlyMyHealth connected with an expert, Dr. Saguna Puttoo, Consultant Dermatologist, Apollo Clinic. We asked questions that have been marinating with your thoughts for a long while. Could acne-prone skin really age better? Is there a scientific explanation for fewer wrinkles in those who battled breakouts in their youth?
Also Read: Are Your Bed Sheets And Pillow Covers Causing Acne? Ways To Prevent Acne Due To Bedding
The Science Behind Acne And Ageing
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Dr. Puttoo explained, “It’s an interesting question, and yes, there is some truth to it! Let me explain it simply. As a dermatologist with over 25 years of experience, I often get asked whether a history of acne can help with ageing and reduce wrinkles. The answer is that acne-prone skin may indeed have some advantages when it comes to ageing, and it has to do with something called telomeres.”
What Are Telomeres?
“Telomeres are like the protective caps at the ends of our chromosomes, which help keep our cells healthy. Every time a cell divides, these telomeres get shorter. As they shorten, the cell ages, and this leads to visible signs of ageing, like wrinkles.”, said Dr. Puttoo. She further added, “Studies have shown that people with a history of acne might experience slower ageing.”
According to a study published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology, those who have battled acne are more likely to have longer telomeres in their White Blood Cells (WBCs).
How Is Ageing Linked To Acne-Prone Skin?
Dr. Puttoo said that acne-prone skin is often in a constant cycle of repairing itself. When you have acne, your skin renews and heals more frequently, which could help preserve the telomere length, slowing down the ageing process.
This constant skin renewal might give acne-prone skin an edge in staying younger-looking for longer. Additionally, acne treatments often include ingredients like retinoids, which boosts collagen production in the skin.
Also Read: Ageing Fast? Dermatologist Shares Difference Between Normal and Premature Ageing
What Role Does Collagen Play?
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“Collagen is a protein that keeps the skin firm and elastic, and more collagen can help prevent wrinkles as you age. While acne itself isn’t a “fountain of youth,” the increased cell turnover and collagen production from acne treatments might help your skin age more gracefully.” said Dr. Puttoo.
She also highlighted that it's essential to remember that good skincare habits, including moisturising and sun protection, are essential for healthy ageing. So, while acne might give you a bit of an edge in terms of skin renewal, maintaining your skin’s health with the right routine is key to minimising wrinkles and keeping your skin looking youthful as you age.
Renegotiating The Self-Esteem Question
According to several studies, acne has a negative effect on self-esteem across patients of all age groups, strongly affecting women and those with severe acne.
Reframe Acne as Strength
Understanding that acne-prone skin may have long-term benefits like slower ageing can help you see it in a more positive light.
Ditch Negative Thoughts
When you catch yourself thinking, “My skin makes me less attractive” or similar, pause and ask, “Is this thought factual or just a fear?” Replace it with something affirming, like, “My worth isn’t defined by my appearance.”
Stop Comparing Yourself
Social media can fuel unrealistic beauty standards. Understand that not everything you see on the internet is true, most of what you see is tweaked and beautified to attract an audience. Remember that everyone’s skin is different, and those filtered images rarely reflect reality.
Practice Self-Care
Practise affirmations and invest in a consistent skincare routine that works for you. It’s not just about improving your skin but also about feeling good in your own skin.
Surround Yourself with Positive People
Spend time with people who cheer for you and value you for who you are. Distance yourself from those who make questionable comments about your appearance. You can also seek out communities, peer groups, or online forums, where others share their skin journeys and experiences.
Seek Professional Support
If acne or self-esteem struggles feel overwhelming, consider consulting a therapist or counsellor. They can help you develop coping strategies and build confidence over time. Dermatologists can also help tailor treatments to address acne effectively, which in turn can
Embrace A New Perspective
While the physical scars of acne may fade over time, the emotional scars often linger for many. Knowing that acne-prone skin may have long-term advantages can be empowering. It’s a reminder that those challenging teenage years did not go down the drain.
Acne may not be a sign of youthful immortality, but it offers a silver lining that turns the narrative of insecurity into one of resilience and optimism. As science continues to address the relationship between acne and ageing, it’s a perspective worth embracing; an acknowledgement of the battles we’ve faced and the benefits they’ve unexpectedly brought along. While acne might have felt like a curse in youth, it could be one of nature’s hidden blessings for graceful ageing!