Acne VulgAris: The PsychosociAl And PsychologicAl Burden of illness

a cne vulgaris is a ubiquitous disease, and its potential to cause significant psychological repercussions was first described over 55 years ago. “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.” Acne is the leading cause for visits to a dermatologist. Although most cases develop in adolescence, with a 70%-87% prevalence, it can frequently continue into adulthood. Acne can affect any age group, and those with post-adolescent acne are increasingly being referred for dermatological care. In one study almost 18% of women were found to have true late-onset disease, with an onset after the age of 25 years. The number of adults with acne appears to be increasing, although the reasons are unclear. Despite its apparent cosmetic nature, the effects of acne can go far deeper than the surface of the skin, and place a heavy emotional and psychological burden on patients that may be far worse than its physical impact.