Acne can create a significant burden for people of all ages. However, the psychological consequences might often be overlooked.

This review comments on recent evidence in the field of psychodermatology, to highlight the importance of considering a person’s mental health in the treatment of acne.

A range of presenting issues are discussed, and cases of underserved patients needing additional considerations are highlighted.

This article considers how the psychological sequelae can contribute to the pathogenesis of acne, and discusses how psychotherapeutic approaches can be of benefit to people experiencing appearance-related distress.

Importantly, attention is paid to the need for clinicians to assess a patient’s wellbeing alongside their physical symptoms.