The major sequela of acne is scarring, which usually results from nodulocystic lesions.

Therapy for scarring usually requires surgical procedures such as collagen injection, dermabrasion, and excision.

Gram-negative folliculitis may develop in patients who receive prolonged antibiotic therapy and is heralded by the sudden flare of pustules or nodules in a patient who has been improving.

Psychological factors may playa significant role in acne management.

In an appearance-oriented culture, acne has been demonstrated to lower the health-related quality of life.

Acne can predispose a patient to low self-esteem, social phobias, and depression. In extreme cases, when acne is associated with depression, it can lead to self-destructive behavior and suicide.

Since acne is not confined to the teenage years and because many physicians regard it as trivial, patients can be affected adversely by the social and psychological effects it engenders.