Why carry out this study?

Cutaneous body image (CBI) encompasses how individuals perceive their hair, skin, and nails, and has been related to negative psychological outcomes and body image concerns.

The first aim of our study was to further validate CBI as a construct. Second, as individuals with dermatologic conditions are at an increased risk for anxiety and depression, the study examined CBI as a mediator of the relationships between having a skin condition and anxiety and depression.

What was learned from this study?

The measure of CBI has been further validated. CBI mediates the relationships between having a skin condition and anxiety and depression.

Dermatologists must be aware that various dermatoses may impact patient mental health via the mechanism of negative CBI.