Beyond the Skin: The Psychological Impact of Dermatological Conditions on Adolescents and the Potential of Creative and Kindness-Based Interventions

This paper addresses the question of how skin conditions affect preteens/teens' mental health and self-esteem. This paper is a synthesis review of findings from six recent studies, which address issues of adolescent skin disorders to highlight their impact and intervention in a person's life. Acne, atopic dermatitis (eczema), and psoriasis are skin conditions that are generally found in adolescence. Over 85% of teens have been frequently affected by acne throughout the years of teenage to adulthood. Skin conditions can lead adolescents to isolate themselves, causing emotional distress and poor quality of life. Increasing the rate of depression and anxiety, which is why it is important to raise awareness on such matters.