Relación entre el acné y la autoestima de adolescentes de la Unidad Educativa Luis Cordero de la ciudad de Azogues - Ecuador, 2024

Abstract

Background: Acne is one of the most common dermatological conditions in adolescents, with a prevalence ranging from 70% and 95%, and notable consequences for self-esteem and mental health. In Ecuador, it affects a substantial proportion of young people, although there is limited research on its psychosocial impact. Objective: This study aimed to determine the relationship between acne and self-esteem in adolescents at Luis Cordero Educational Unit in Azogues, Ecuador. Methodology: A quantitative, correlational, cross-sectional, non-experimental study was conducted with a randomly selected sample of 172 students. Acne severity was assessed using the Spanish Acne Severity Scale (EGAE, by its Spanish acronym) and self-esteem measured using the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES, by its Spanish acronym). Data were analyzed with Chi-square tests, Student’s t-test, and ANOVA. Results: A total of 66.9% of adolescents had some degree of acne, with higher frequency in the 16- to 18-year-old group. No significant association was found between the presence of acne and overall self-esteem (p = 0.093). However, severe acne was significantly associated with low self-esteem (p = 0.009). Conclusions and Relevance: Although no general relationship between acne and self-esteem was observed, adolescents with severe forms showed lower self-esteem, suggesting that the impact depends on the severity of the condition. Other factors, such as socioeconomic status and resilience, may influence outcomes and should be included in future research. Keywords: acne, self-esteem, adolescence, prevalence