THE SKIN is one of the largest organs of the body. It is also one of the most important organs of the body. Our skin plays an important role in several vital bodily functions. Defence is one of its functions. The skin acts as a two-way barrier to prevent the inward or outward passage of water and electrolytes. The barrier is largely situated in the epidermis. The skin also produces antibodies against infective agents.
A number of sensations are perceived by the skin -- touch, pressure, warmth, cold and pain. Just as importantly, the skin by its appearance, feel and smell plays an important role in social and sexual communication. Due especially to this last role, diseases of the skin cause more social and psychological impact than other diseases.
The psychological effects of skin diseases, like acne, have only recently been fully appreciated. The lack of appreciation stems from the fact that some skin diseases are common. Almost everyone gets acne. These diseases are not a serious threat to ones health and some of them go away on their own. Diseases like acne, vitiligo, psoriasis and eczema, nevertheless have a very significant effect on a person's outlook and life.
They can cause: social withdrawal, decreased self esteem, reduced self confidence, poor body image, embarrassment, feelings of depression, suicidal intent, anger, frustration, and higher rate of unemployment
The effects listed above are interrelated, with one effect leading to another and only making the first one worse. These effects can, and often do, cripple a person socially, on the job or at school. For some patients the psychological impact can be at least as severe as the physical.
"There is no single disease which causes more psychic trauma, more maladjustment between parents and children, more general insecurity and feelings of inferiority and greater sums of psychic suffering than does acne vulgaris" - Sulzberger & Zaldems, 1948. Skin diseases are serious do not ignore them.
- Dr. Clive Anderson, dermatologist
