cne is a common condition afflicting many adolescents that may even persist during adulthood. [1][2][3][4] Acne has the potential to adversely affect health-related quality of life (HRQoL). [5][6][7][8][9] Acne scarring is a long-term complication experienced to some extent by most who have had acne and can persist for a lifetime. 10 Many studies have attempted to describe the psychosocial effects of acne, but only a few have explored the negative effects of acne scarring. Acne scarring, although poorly researched, has been associated with psychosocial morbidity and impaired HRQoL. Evidence suggests that acne scarring can negatively influence the self-esteem and self-confidence of individuals, leading to anxiety, depression, and perceived decreased employability, which in turn can affect their social and vocational functioning. 11-13 Furthermore, acne scarring 14 is associated with stigmatization, which can affect their emotional well-being and social life. 15 Most studies exploring the effects of acne on psychosoc ial well-being have foc used on fac ial ac ne using dermatology-specific questionnaires. [16][17][18] In-depth data on the association of both facial and truncal active acne (FTA) and its sequelae, acne scars (AS), with the psychosocial wellbeing are increasing but still limited. [19][20][21][22] A qualitative, in-depth exploration of burden, defined as something oppressive or worrisome, 23 of active FTA and AS with a projective technique is an innovative perspective to provide an insight into HRQoL of afflicted individuals. 24 The present study aimed to demonstrate the association of FTA and AS IMPORTANCE The association of acne with emotional and social well-being is not limited to active acne because acne scarring can extend long after cessation of active lesions.OBJECTIVE To explore the psychosocial burden of facial and truncal acne (FTA) and acne scars (AS) in a spontaneous manner using qualitative research.
DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTSThis qualitative study recruited participants via local panels. A personification exercise, "Letter to my Disease," was developed for participants of 2 independent arms, FTA and AS, of an international qualitative study in the form of letter completion.MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Study outcomes comprised perceptions, psychosocial effects of FTA and AS, and coping behaviors.RESULTS A total of 60 participants were recruited for the FTA and AS study. Among participants with FTA, 17 were women (57%), 21 (70%) were aged 13 to 25 years, and 9 (30%) were aged 26 to 40 years. Twenty-six (87%) participants had severe active acne and 4 (13%) had moderate active acne. Among participants with AS, 18 were women (60%), 9 (30%) were aged 18 to 24 years, and 21 (70%) were aged between 25 and 45 years. Of these 60 participants, 56 (FTA, 28 and AS, 28) completed the projective exercise, "Letter to my Disease," the analysis of which is presented in the current study. During completion of the letter exercise, participants spontaneously expressed emotional and physical burden as w...