Acne is a very common dermatological condition, strongly linked to sexual puberty . Dermatologist in Delhi says although it does not cause direct physical impairment, it can produce a significant psychosocial burden and has a substantial impact upon patients’ QoL. Face is one of the privileged sites of acne, and facial appearance is a major component of one’s perception of body. It is not surprising therefore that an individual whose face is spoiled with acne develops significant psychosocial disability. As part of the emotional impact, increased levels of anxiety, anger, depression and frustration are observed in patients with acne. According to Skin specialist Doctors The onset of acne, mainly during teen – ages coincides, in addition, to a period of life where psychosocial balance is naturally fragile.
Most studies done by Skin specialists on the psychosocial impact of acne have been conducted among patients from the US and Europe, very few being available among other population groups. A study conducted by Pruthi et al. Focused on acne adult females in india ( acne can persist much beyond teen years ) . Using a semi – structured clinical interview of the skindex, they showed a higher level of emotional and social impairment, in terms of physical discomfort, anger, and the intermingling impact of these, among the 11 women with mild-to-moderate acne. The consensus of the Indian Acne Alliance (IAA) members, on indian patients with acne is that the negative impact is lower in Indians as they accept acne more easily, as an unavoidable part of life.