‘Feeling like a second-class citizen’: exploring the impact, self-management and existing support for adults living with acne and/or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and scarring

Abstract

This article investigates how living with, and self-managing, acne and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and scarring impacts adults living with these conditions. Eight adults took part in individual qualitative interviews. Framework analysis generated four themes: (1) acne blame; (2) control at any cost; (3) the business of skinfluencers; and (4) ‘it’s your hormones’. Those with acne and PIH&S are currently underserved by dermatology and psychodermatology provision, and additional funding and research is needed to provide psychological and self-management support for this group.