Psychologic Aspects of Acne

Abstract

Psychologic factors may play a significant role in acne in at least three ways. First, as many patients readily report, emotional stress can exacerbate acne. Second, it is common for patients to develop psychiatric problems as a consequence of the conditions, such as those related to low self-esteem, social phobias, or depression. Finally, primary psychiatric illnesses such as obsessive-compulsive disorder and psychosis may be based on a complaint that is focused on acne. In this review we hope to facilitate an understanding of how emotional factors and acne connect, and aid the dermatologist in identifying the possible presence of psychiatric problems stemming from or contributing to the disorder.

Psychodermatology: A Study of Co-Morbid Skin Disorders in Primary Psychiatric Conditions

“…[6] Acne excoriee was seen in Major Depression and Schizophrenia Patients in our study group. [7] Papulosquamous disorder like Psoriasis was seen in 2% of the study group, Anxiety and Depression were common co morbid conditions seen in these patients. Studies show psychosocial factors in originating and exacerbation of psoriatic symptoms in 40-90%.…”

A study of efficacy of subcision, micro-needling and carbon dioxide fractional laser for treatment of acne scars

“…4,5 Given the psychological, social and emotional impact of disfigurement caused due to acne scars, dermatologists are frequently presented with the challenge of evaluating and providing treatment for the same. [6][7][8] The variation seen in development of scars is not As such, there are multiple modalities of treatment for acne scars. But there are no common rules or standard set of treatment which can be applied to every patient.…”

Psychosocial Aspects of Acne Vulgaris: A Community-based Study with Korean Adolescents

“…Although acne does not cause direct physical impairment, it can produce a significant psychosocial burden 2 . It has been suggested that patients with moderate-to-severe acne suffer from poor body image, low self-esteem, and experience social isolation and constriction of activities 3,4 .…”