The life of a teenager can often feel like it's full of drama. So there's really no worse time for a highly visual skin condition to crop up and further affect their self-esteem and confidence. Acne is a very common skin condition.

However, it's unlikely this provides much comfort to a suffering teenager. But it's not just teenagers who are affected €“ some people suffer well into their adults years, particularly women. Although there is a wide range of OTC products available, as well as effective self-care techniques that can improve symptoms over time, there is sadly no instant, miracle cure. Acne may seem like a harmless, mildly upsetting skin complaint, yet the severity of the condition can vary, with some lesions being painful and leaving permanent, unsightly scars.

Acne can also have a psychological impact, with many sufferers finding it affects their self-esteem, and in severe cases it can lead to depression. It is therefore important that the subject is treated with empathy and tact.

Pharmacy teams are often the first port of call for patients who are suffering from skin complaints. Being aware of the various myths surrounding the onset of acne will help you to offer constructive self-care advice and recommend OTC products that will be effective for each customer's individual needs. It can take up to eight weeks for products to have any effect and for skin to noticeably improve.

Different acne treatments work in different ways, so finding the right product for each individual can take several attempts. If OTC treatments prove to be ineffective, the customer should speak to their doctor about other options that they can try. The important point to stress is that customers shouldn't become discouraged; it may take perseverance until a successful treatment, that is right for them, is found.