Dermatologic conditions and stigma: The depiction of acne in cartoons

Acne affects almost 10% of the world's population, and sufferers are often stigmatized; yet, media portrayals of the condition have received little academic attention. Media depictions can shape public views about medical disorders. This study examined the portrayal of acne in readily accessible cartoons to creatively inform education campaigns about the condition. The image sections of various internet search engines and the online cartoon library CartoonStock were inspected for single-panel cartoons that made specific reference to acne. Each cartoon was then examined according to an instrument with categories for describing the themes about acne, the suggested etiology, treatment methods, and outcome. Ninety-three cartoons were identified. Common themes included acne causing despair for sufferers, being fervently hidden from others, and impairing the formation of intimate relationships. No cartoon made reference to retinoids or other newer acne treatments, and positive outcomes were rarely depicted. It is hoped that future cartoon portrayals of acne may be able to offer more optimistic messages about the condition.