Comedy star Rob Brydon is set to bring festive humour to our screens on Christmas Day in the highly-anticipated new Christmas special of Gavin and Stacey. And yet, behind the scenes, his journey hasn’t always been smooth sailing.
Unbeknown to many fans, the 59-year-old has battled with skin-related issues for many years. According to Wales Online, he isn’t embarrassed of his complexion, but does view it as a ‘vulnerability’.
“I don’t like acne scars,” he said on Jamie Laing’s Great Company podcast, before adding: “I’d like nicer skin.” In Rob’s 2012 autobiography, Small Man In A Book, he touched on the skin condition in more detail, explaining that his family and friends always played down its severity.
“The problem with acne is friends and family, keen not to upset the sufferer, will often declare, ‘It’s not that bad, really,’ when in fact it’s appalling,” he penned at the time. “My family played it down. They saw beyond my skin, but it did affect me. I was always fearful of rejection in the last stage with girls. It was the kiss that scared me.”
The NHS explains that acne is a common condition that typically gives rise to spots and oily skin. This usually develops on the face, chest, or back in areas with a high concentration of oil glands, though it can appear anywhere.
“Acne is most commonly linked to the changes in hormone levels during puberty, but can start at any age,” the health body explains. “Certain hormones cause the grease-producing glands next to hair follicles in the skin to produce larger amounts of oil (abnormal sebum).
“This abnormal sebum changes the activity of a usually harmless skin bacterium called P. acnes, which becomes more aggressive and causes inflammation and pus. The hormones also thicken the inner lining of the hair follicle, causing blockage of the pores. Cleaning the skin does not help to remove this blockage.”
Under the guidance of a dermatologist, Rob took vitamin A supplements to clear his spots, but was then left with deep scars from years of chronic acne. Beyond this, the NHS recommends exercising and showering regularly to treat the condition, though it’s crucial to avoid washing the affected area ‘more than twice a day’.
“Although acne cannot be cured, it can be controlled with treatment,” the NHS continues. “If you develop mild acne, it’s a good idea to speak to a pharmacist for advice.
“Several creams, lotions and gels for treating spots are available to buy from pharmacies. Products containing a low concentration of benzoyl peroxide may be recommended, but be careful as this can bleach clothing.
“If your acne is severe or appears on your chest and back, it may need to be treated with antibiotics or stronger creams that are only available on prescription.”