Facial acne scars are perceived negatively by society, confirming the importance of preventing scars with early treatment, a recent study has found. Researchers administered an online survey, throughout the US and around the world, to 4,618 respondents 18 years and older, depicting 3 facial pictures of clear skins or digitally superimposed acne scars in a random fashion. Among the responders, 33% had facial acne scars. Researchers discovered:

• The skin was the first thing 41% responders noticed about the face when viewing pictures of scars vs 8% viewing clear skin.

• Those with scars were less likely to be considered attractive (17% vs 25%), confident (25% vs 33%), happy (23% vs 30%), healthy (21% vs 31%), and successful (17% vs 24%).

• Those with acne scars were more likely to be perceived as insecure (15% vs 8%) and shy (23% vs 14%).

• Skin care was cited as the habit most in need of improvement by 59% vs 13% of respondents viewing pictures of scars vs clear skin.

• The majority of respondents indicated willingness to pay to eradicate scars.

Citation: Dréno B, Tan J, Kang S, et al. How people with facial acne scars are perceived in society: an online survey. [Published online ahead of print April 18, 2016]. Dermatol Ther (Heidelb). doi:10.1007/s13555-016-0113-x.