Acne scarring is a prevalent and distressing consequence of acne vulgaris, particularly affecting individuals with Skin of Colour that is Fitzpatrick grade three to six. This study aims to investigate the clinical profile of acne scars in Indian patients with Skin of Colour at a tertiary care hospital in Western India, addressing critical gaps in the understanding and management of this condition as they are seen to have a higher propensity for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation , specific scar morphologies like hypertrophic scars and keloids, and increased risk of adverse effects from certain treatments like fractional carbon dioxide laser.

The research questions guiding this study are as follows,

What is the Prevalence, Clinical Patterns, Associated Risk Factors, Efficacy and Safety of various treatment modalities used for Acne Scarring in Indian Patients with Skin of Colour that is Fitzpatrick grade three to six at a Tertiary Care Hospital ?

The study will be a hospital-based observational study conducted at the Dermatology OPD of GCSMCH and RC, Ahmedabad. A total of 318 consenting patients, aged 12 years and above, with post-acne scarring and Fitzpatrick skin types three to six will be enrolled. 

Data collection will involve a pre-designed Case Report Form to capture sociodemographic details, acne and its scars history, clinical examination findings. Standardized digital photography will be used for do baseline documentation and follow-up assessments.

The co-primary objectives of the study to estimate the prevalence, associated risk factors, clinical patterns, and types of acne scars in patients with Skin of Colour, and to observe the severity and grades of acne scars using validated scoring systems and psychological impact assessment questionnaires. 

Secondary objectives include observing the efficacy and safety of various therapeutic treatment modalities and recording any adverse events.

Expected Outcomes and Significance of this study are as follows,

This research is expected to provide valuable baseline data on the epidemiology and clinical spectrum of acne scarring in the Skin of Colour population in western Gujarat. It will also offer insights into the efficacy and safety of common treatment modalities in this population, contributing to the development of tailored prevention strategies 

and optimized management protocols, potentially minimizing the risk of treatment-related complications like post inflammatory hyperpigmentation and ultimately improving overall patient outcomes at this tertiary care hospital and potentially beyond.

To ensure accurate documentation and facilitate follow-up assessments, standardized photographs of the affected areas will be taken .

The study will adhere to the guidelines set by Indian Council of Medical Research and will ensure ethical considerations, including obtaining informed consent, ensuring confidentiality, and minimizing risks to participants.