ABSTRACT
Not unexpectedly there is some variability in the way that individuals respond to facial disorders of this sort with perhaps a greater depth of despair occurring in young women and an outwardly more disdainful and unconcerned attitude being found in older men. Even in this latter group, however, attitudes are changing and husky males now consult the mirror almost as often as young women. Make no mistake, visible skin disease of the face is disturbing to all who experience it however ‘macho’ we may think we are. Regardless of the particular social setting in which it occurs an inflamed or damaged facial skin just cannot be ignored and always makes waves in the psychological stream. The clinician must also be aware that some patients have a disturbed and distorted view of their skin leading them to complain bitterly about minor changes, which are hardly noticed by all others. This condition is known as dysmorpho - phobia and can be extremely difficult to deal with.3
