PROBING SOCIAL ANXIETY, PSYCHOLOGICAL BURDEN AND QUALITY OF LIFE AMONG FEMALES WITH FACIAL ACNE

Abstract

Facial acne is often dismissed as a benign cosmetic issue, yet for many women it carries significant psychosocial burden. The visible nature of the condition may contribute to heightened social anxiety, emotional distress and impaired quality of life. To explore how facial acne affects social anxiety, psychological burden and quality of life among females, by capturing in-depth first-person accounts of living with this condition. A purposive sample of 20 females (aged 18–35) with clinically visible facial acne were recruited for a qualitative study. Semi-structured individual interviews were conducted, focusing on participants’ experiences of appearance concerns, social interaction, emotional responses, coping strategies and day-to-day quality of life. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analyzed using thematic analysis to identify key patterns and themes. Participants described a pervasive sense of being visibly marked by acne, leading to self-consciousness and avoidance of social situations (e.g., refraining from photographs, sheltering behind make-up or hair). Many expressed internalized pressure (from peers, social media, romantic/occupational contexts) to have clear skin, which amplified feelings of failure, shame, and anxiety. For some, acne impacted daily routines, social engagement, intimate relationships, and even career or academic ambitions; participants spoke of altered self-perception, reduced confidence, mood fluctuations (sadness, frustration, irritability), and quality-of-life impairments (social withdrawal, disrupted sleep, lower satisfaction with appearance). Female adults with facial acne face more than skin-deep symptoms: the condition can trigger social anxiety, psychological burden and measurable detriments to quality of life. Healthcare providers should recognize the psychosocial dimension of acne and consider integrated care approaches to address the emotional and social impact.

Keywords: Facial Acne, Women, Social Anxiety, Psychological Burden, Quality Of Life