Mind-Body therapies

Abstract

Acne vulgaris is the most common skin condition in the United States, affecting 50 million Americans annually and more than 85% of adolescents worldwide. Although rosacea is estimated to affect 10% of the population, its impact should not be underestimated. The pathogenesis of both of these conditions is multifactorial. One of these factors is stress. It is well established that acne has physical sequelae such as disfigurement and permanent scarring, yet the long-lasting psychosocial effects that can impact a patient's quality of life do not often receive equal attention. Anxiety, depression, social isolation, and suicidal ideation are common comorbidities of acne that cannot be overlooked in the management of acne patients. Research suggests that the impact on quality of life can be alleviated by mind-body therapies including biofeedback, meditation, and hypnosis, with resultant stress management, stress reduction, and improvement in the clinical manifestations of acne and rosacea.