It’s been known for years, acne can contribute to depression and emotional issues in teens. Teens and adults alike who suffer from acne are more likely to experience dips in self-esteem, and the effects can outlast the acne itself. But now, they have actually done a study that confirms this well-known fact.

Pimples, low self-esteem, and depression go hand in hand. By actually analyzing 16 different studies, researchers have found that “Acne has a huge impact on people’s lives. It’s something worth treating” according to Dr. Steven R Feldman.

Personally, I think about this, and I think what a waste of time and money. How much could have been accomplished if scientists used that money to research treatments for acne or for that matter treatments for cancer rather than analyzing 16 other studies (which also costs too much for the purpose) to tell us that acne can damage self-esteem.

In one study, it showed that 9% of teens who happen to suffer from acne showed sign of depression and even suicidal tendencies. I have to wonder if a study on teens in general, (regardless of acne) would show the same thing. But who really knows. This study is meant to underline the idea that we need to focus on better acne treatments are more accessible acne treatments. But again, is there a particular reason why the money wasn’t spent researching treatments for acne that have not been over-studied (like benzoyl peroxide).