Psychological Effects Of Acne Vulgaris

The face, back, chest, and upper arms contain the highest concentration of well developed sebaceous glands making them prime targets for acne vulgaris breakouts. A majority of other skin conditions are limited to areas covered by clothing. Acne, however, is often painfully apparent. The effects of acne vulgaris are not only “skin deep. The primarily adolescent population affected, the obvious locations where the lesions appear, misconceptions about what causes the condition, and the strong emphasis placed on physical appearance all combine to produce a variety of non-dermatological symptoms that further complicate any case of acne vulgaris.

The psychological effects of acne vulgaris can depend on individual and social perceptions of the condition. One study showed that almost 30 percent of acne vulgaris sufferers undergoing treatment believed that poor skin hygiene caused acne. Beliefs that being “unclean” can create a stigma, with its accompanying feelings of embarrassment, shame, and guilt. No one wants to be thought of as “dirty.” The great emphasis on physical appearance so pervasive in Western society produces a similar effect. Commonly, acne vulgaris sufferers will say that the itch and pain of acne does not bother them as much as do the changes in appearance.

One study has indicated that acne vulgaris significantly affects quality of life, or the degree of enjoyment or satisfaction experienced in everyday life. The research has reported that older adults with acne describe greater deficits in quality of life than their younger counterparts.