Psychological problems in the acne patient.

Acne is a ubiquitous affliction that can leave physical and emotional scars that can persist throughout the life of the affected individual. Recent studies have substantiated the psychological impact and support a causal, and at times reciprocal, link between acne and the emotional and functional status of the patient. The present article will examine the recent data substantiating the emotional and functional impact of acne on the affected individual. Criteria to identify high-risk patients are provided. High-risk patients are those at increased risk for psychological and functional impairment or self-injurious behavior.