Prevalence, clinical and epidemiological characteristics of acne, and morphofunctional properties of the skin in patients aged 18–25 years

BACKGROUND: Acne is one of the most common skin disorders, affecting up to 96% of the population. However, there is a lack of up-to-date data on the incidence and clinical characteristics of acne across different age groups, particularly in young adults.

AIM: To assess the prevalence, clinical and epidemiological features of acne, and the morphofunctional characteristics of the skin in patients aged 18–25 years.

METHODS: A total of 655 individuals aged 18–25 years were examined for clinical signs of acne. In patients with severe acne, skin morphofunctional properties were assessed using the Multiskin Test Center MC 1000 system (Courage + Khazaka electronic GmbH, Germany). The skin microbiome was studied by bacteriological analysis on enriched culture media with subsequent quantification of colony-forming units (log CFU/mL).

RESULTS: Acne was identified in 60.5% of participants. Among patients, 36.6% were men and 63.4% were women. Mild acne predominated (52.7%), followed by moderate (33.3%) and severe (7.8%) forms. Mild and moderate acne were more common in women, while severe cases were more frequent in men. Mild acne occurred most frequently in women and men aged 19 years (28.4% and 29.3%) and 21 years (30.6% and 28.0%, respectively); moderate acne in those aged 18 (21.7% and 20.0%), 19 (36.8% and 34.0%), and 21 years (22.6% and 24.0%, respectively); and severe acne in patients aged 19 (54.5% and 30.0%) and 21 years (27.3% and 20.0%, respectively). Acne was associated with disrupted skin morphofunction, including dehydration, sebaceous hyperactivity, reduced elasticity, increased pore size, and pigmentation. Changes in the skin microbiome were observed, with an increased concentration of pathogenic microorganisms (Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella, Enterobacter, Bacillus spp., hemolytic Candida) and a decrease in opportunistic flora, promoting inflammation.

CONCLUSION: This study fills a gap in the current understanding of acne prevalence, clinical and epidemiological features, and skin morphofunction in young Russian patients. The findings enhance knowledge of acne pathogenesis, supporting the development of more effective treatments and prevention of complications.