The impact of facial acne scars on quality of life, anxiety, depression and its associated risk factors.

INTRODUCTION

Acne scars negatively impact psychosocial and emotional wellbeing. However, data on the impact of acne scarring on anxiety and depression as well as quality of life are limited. This study assessed the effects of facial acne scars on quality of life, anxiety, and depression, and identifies risk factors associated with scar severity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We conducted an observational cross-sectional study between February 2023 and January 2024 at dermatology clinics in two public hospitals. A total of 175 patients with facial acne scars were recruited. Data collection included patient demographics, acne severity, scar severity (SCAR-S) and questionnaires such as Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). The association between scar severity, quality of life, anxiety, and depression was analyzed using Chi-square tests and ordinal logistic regression.

RESULTS

The median age of participants was 26.9 years and 56% were female. Most patients had mild (37.7%) to moderate (28.6%) acne scars. Among patients with severe/very severe scars, 69.2% reported a significant impact on quality of life (DLQI>10). A significant association was observed between scar severity and anxiety (p=0.009) as well as depression (p<0.001). There was a positive correlation between HADS and DLQI scores (r=0.602, p<0.001). Delayed or absent treatment after acne onset was a significant risk factor for acne scar severity.

CONCLUSION

Facial acne scars are associated with impairment in quality of life and increased anxiety and depression. Timely and effective acne treatment is essential to reduce the severity of scarring and its psychosocial burden.