Acne — it's not exactly a subject that you like to talk about every day. At social events, you do your best to conceal it under makeup (although if you're a man, makeup is usually not a realistic option). For kids, acne is more than just a stage of adolescence — it's the pits! In fact, acne can be a problem for people of any age. Even newborns and seniors can develop acne!
Americans currently spend more than $4 billion a year on skin treatments, nearly $100 million of which goes toward nonprescription acne medications alone. We lavish millions on expensive special soaps and cleansers, prescription therapies, and visits to physicians. Besides money, we also spend an enormous amount of time at beauty counters, salons, spas, and tanning parlors.
Much of this extravagance is encouraged by the messages we get from the media that market unrealistic promises. Ad campaigns promote skin care products using models and movie stars that have perfect, radiant skin. They perpetuate the idea that clear, youthful appearing skin is the only way to go; imperfections are to be looked down on as something to be ashamed of. Many myths and misconceptions about skin care in general, and acne specifically, continue to be widely believed.
During my 25 years of practicing dermatology, I've observed my patients trying to cope with the embarrassment of acne and related skin disorders. That's what motivated me to write a realistic, practical guide for the understanding and treatment of acne and related conditions. My goal is to dispel many of the myths and misconceptions and to help the reader find out more about his or her condition and manage it more successfully.
Keep in mind that attractiveness to others is much more than physical beauty. It also includes such factors as intelligence and personality. Remember — beauty and acne are only skin deep!
