Background: Quality of life (QOL) is a broad concept that encompasses all aspects of an individual`s existence. Acne is a common inflammatory dermatosis which most frequently affects the face, and produces significant psychological and physical scarring. Objective: The aim of this study was to compare QOL in patients with acne and healthy controls by using the WHO QOL Scale, and to assess QOL of patients with acne by using the generic (WHO Quality of life scale), dermatology-specific (Skindex-29) and acne-specific (APSEA) questionnaires. The relationship between clinical characteristics and QOL were explored. Additionally, financial values which patients attach to the treatment for their acne were determined. Methods: 170 acne patients and 41 healthy controls were recruited in this study and completed the WHO QOL-BREF Scale. Total scores and scores of domains of the WHO QOL Scale in the two groups were compared. Correlation analysis and multiple regression analysis were performed to examine the relationship between the quality of life and the clinical characteristics of patients with acne. Results: Total score of WHO QOL scale in patients with acne were decreased compared to those in healthy controls. Clinical characteristics, including the severity of depression and anxiety, disease duration, clinical severity and self-reported severity (SRS), showed significant correlation with QOL. Multiple regression analysis revealed that the severity of depression and anxiety, and SRS were factors directly affecting the QOL in the patients with acne. As for financial aspects, 27.6% of patients would pay 100,000~500,000 won for acne treatment, but 33.5% of patients answered they would not pay when cost of treatment exceeded 100,000 won. Conclusion: QOL in patients with acne was poorer than that of healthy controls. The association between QOL and SRS was stronger than QOL and clinical severity. The severity of depression and anxiety was the most important predictor on QOL. (Korean J Dermatol 2006;44(6):688~695)