Psychosocial sequelae related to acne: looking beyond the physical.

The emotional impact of acne is influenced by numerous factors including age, psychosocial factors, severity of disease, social and familial networks and patient specific personalities. Adolescents are an emotionally vulnerable population, and acne can significantly burden their psychological resources. Looking beyond the physical manifestations of acne can add valuable clinical information aiding clinicians in choosing the most beneficial treatment regimens. Patients at high risk for psychological and/or physical harm can in need of psychiatric referral can also be better recognized.