Work

Psychopathology in acne, psoriasis, and eczema patients: Pre- and post-treatment

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Purpose: This study aimed to examine whether the visibility of dermatological conditions differed with distinct trajectories of psychopathological symptoms before and after dermatological treatment. Methods: In total, 162 adults aged 18–35 years participated in the study. A prospective, controlled design was employed, comparing two dermatological patient groups (Group A, n = 54: visible facial acne, and Group B, n = 54: non-visible psoriasis/eczema) with a healthy control group (Group C, n = 54) across two assessment points, using a battery of questionnaires. Results: While both dermatological patient groups exhibited elevated psychopathology compared to controls at both time points, patients with visible acne demonstrated a distinct post-treatment exacerbation of specific psychopathological dimensions (Somatization, OCD, Anxiety, and Paranoid Ideation). Conclusions: Findings suggest that dermatological treatment alone may be insufficient to alleviate psychological distress, particularly when the skin condition is visibly located. Therefore, a combination of dermatological and psychological treatments is recommended.

Source: Journal of Health Psychology

DOI: 10.1177/13591053261438310

Authors: Charalambos Costeris, Maria Petridou

Institutions: Neapolis University Pafos, University of Limassol

Language: English

Topic: Acne and Rosacea Treatments and Effects

Subfield: Dermatology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,650