Alicia Keys is only just starting to get over the constant criticism she faced for her acne problems when she first hit fame.

The FALLIN' singer admits that while she spent years battling her skin problems as a teen, nothing prepared her for the harsh comments she faced once she became a public figure.

She says, "When you're in high school, somebody might say something (about acne) and hurt your feelings. Well, imagine the entire world looking at you, constantly scrutinising your face.

"I felt really hurt. I knew that you shouldn't base your (self-esteem) on your physical appearance, so I tried to convince myself that I shouldn't worry about it, but inside I felt like everyone was attacking me.

"It wasn't easy at all, but I finally realised that I'm beautiful on the inside regardless of a couple of bumps here and there. Who cares?"