Analysing the psychological impact of acne among Mauritian adults
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Background: Acne, a chronic inflammatory disease, results from multi-nodal effects, including inflammatory reactions among others. The consequences of acne extend beyond the physiological and aesthetic appearance, with reported adverse effects on mental health. Objective: This study analyzed the impact of acne on mental health determinants among Mauritian adults. Methods: A cross-sectional quantitative survey was carried out among Mauritian adults (n = 381) suffering from acne. The tool assessed quality of life through an adapted Acne-Specific Quality of Life scale, self-esteem and appearance anxiety using the Rosenberg self-esteem scale, and appearance anxiety inventory respectively. Results: (i) Acne and demographics: The data revealed that a sizeable proportion of Mauritians (86.4%) suffer from facial acne with varying severity as per the self-reported mild (50.1%), moderate (42.8%), and severe acne (7.1%) across the sampled participants. (ii) Acne and quality of life: Acne severity was associated with age group and education levels (p < 0.05) as opposed to the indifference across gender. An inverse correlation was found between acne severity and quality of life, and the majority of the sample (59.9%) suffered from body dysmorphic disorder as a result of anxiety related to the acne. (iii) Acne and mental health constructs: Participants having severe acne experienced very low self-esteem (mean score = 6), confirming the relationship between acne and self-esteem [χ2(34) = 126.105, p < 0.05, Cramer’s V = 0.426]. Acne severity had a significant effect on appearance anxiety (H = 16.05, p < 0.001), adversely impacting mental health. Mauritians generally sought dermatological assistance for their acne (54.1%); however, a significantly larger population (78.5%) felt that treatment should not be siloed through a dermatologist. 70% of the sample also preferred psychological support, which would enhance their quality of life. Conclusion: The quality of life of Mauritian adults is negatively affected by acne, and the severity of psychological impairment is multi-fold, from poor self-esteem to anxiety, leading to isolating behaviors. Preemptive processes such as psychological conditioning and support are necessary to decrease the burden associated with acne.
Source: Applied Psychology Research
DOI: 10.59400/apr1849
Institution: University of Technology, Mauritius
Language: English
Subfield: Dermatology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7128233127