Risk Factors Associated With Facial Acne Scarring in Thai Patients With Acne: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: One of the worst long-term effects of acne is scarring, which leads to significant physical, psychological, and economic burdens. Limited studies have specifically studied the risk factors for acne scarring. This study aims to explore risk factors associated with facial acne scarring in Thai patients with acne. Methods: Exploratory cross-sectional risk factor research was conducted using an online questionnaire on Thai patients aged ≥ 18 years who were diagnosed with acne between September and December 2023. The primary objective was to identify significant determinants of acne scars in patients with acne, including sociodemographic factors, clinical factors of acne, lifestyle factors, dietary habits factors, and treatment factors. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression were used to identify significant risk determinants. Results: Of 225 patients with 61.33% prevalence of acne scarring, acne scarring was found to be independently associated with the following variables: moderate acne (mOR 3.51, 95% CI 1.31–9.40, p = 0.012) or severe-to-very severe acne (mOR 8.98, 95% CI 2.71–29.73, p < 0.001), sometimes squeezing and picking behaviors (mOR 2.69, 95% CI 2.71–29.73, p = 0.033), and postacne erythema (PAE) (mOR 4.46, 95% CI 1.96–10.14, p < 0.001). Conclusion: The risk factors associated with acne scarring in individuals include the severity of acne, squeezing and picking behaviors, and experiencing PAE. One of this study's essential findings confirms that PAE is a notable component that could contribute to the development of acne scars. Early treatment of individuals at risk is crucial to reduce scar formation.