Acne and its association with internalizing problems

Abstract

Acne vulgaris or “acne” is a prevalent and burdensome cutaneous condition that has been linked with unique mental health implications. Clinical (i.e., general and social anxiety, and major depression) and subclinical indicators (e.g., excessive worry, social self-consciousness, and low self-esteem) of internalizing disorders have been associated with acne across demographics (e.g., age groups and cultures). Considering the persistent burden of disease associated with these mental health outcomes, our primary aim was to concretely synthesize the relation between acne and internalizing symptoms. A secondary aim was to address the role that combined oral contraceptives and isotretinoin (e.g., Accutane), widely prescribed medical treatments for acne, may play in this relation as both have been linked to depression and anxiety. We discuss practical implications that may strengthen the effective biopsychosocial management of acne for suffering individuals. This review actively upholds and amplifies the call for longitudinal research that integrates the developmental psychology and dermatology literature to effectively treat acne in its entirety, including mental health.