Developing acne at a very early age could prove a devastating experience, but could be fought back.
Compounding the problem is that a key drug taken to treat it, Roche’s roaccutane could add to one’s depression. In some cases, it could trigger suicidal tendencies.
While no causal link had been established between the drug and either depression or suicide, it is constantly monitored, experts say.
Data gathered by the UK’s Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency show 27 young people have committed suicide in the country while taking roaccutane, although there is no proof that the drug is the cause.
Depressed about her teenage acne, Melissa Hewett started to self-harm and tried almost monthly to take her own life.
The acne, which covered much of her body, left her feeling worthless and miserable.
She spent time in a mental health clinic getting treatment for her depression.
Now Melissa’s acne has cleared and, at the age of 21, she is starting to live again and is engaged - but she feels acne robbed her of much of her youth.
"Having acne was horrible," said Melissa, an events organiser from Berkshire.
"I developed at a young age, which meant my acne started young at about 11 to 12 years old.
"My back, neck and face were covered in spots. My back was hit worst, so I would always wear a shirt over strappy tops or high-backed tops."
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