From the Guidelines
Excessive fat or lipid accumulation on the skin is primarily caused by obesity, which is strongly correlated with the development of psoriasis, particularly in pediatric patients, as evidenced by studies showing a higher prevalence of obesity and metabolic syndrome in patients with psoriasis compared to unaffected individuals 1. The relationship between obesity and psoriasis is complex, with both conditions exacerbating each other through systemic inflammation and the upregulation of proinflammatory cytokines. Adipose tissue is metabolically active, secreting cytokines that alter metabolism, including interleukin (IL) 1, IL-6, TNF-a, and adiponectin, which are increased in obesity and decreased in psoriasis 1. Key factors contributing to excessive fat accumulation on the skin include:
- Central obesity, characterized by increased waist circumference percentile relative to weight and height ratio percentile, which tends to develop around 8 years of age in patients with psoriasis 1
- Dietary factors, such as high carbohydrate intake, particularly from refined sources, which can lead to increased fat storage and insulin resistance 1
- Genetic predisposition, with family history of obesity playing a significant role in the development of psoriasis and excessive fat accumulation on the skin 1 To manage excessive fat accumulation on the skin, it is essential to address the underlying causes, including:
- Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise
- Screening for and managing comorbidities, such as metabolic syndrome and dyslipidemia, which are common in patients with psoriasis 1
- Using topical treatments and medications that target the underlying inflammatory processes and promote healthy skin barrier function.
From the Research
Causes of Excessive Fat or Lipid Accumulation on the Skin
- Excessive fat or lipid accumulation on the skin can be caused by various factors, including the use of certain skincare products or supplements 2
- Some studies suggest that the use of animal-derived fats, such as tallow, in skincare products may have therapeutic benefits for the skin, but more research is needed to fully understand its effects 3, 4, 5
- The composition of tallow, which is a solid fat derived from animals, may make it suitable for use on the skin, but its benefits and side effects are not yet fully understood 3
- Other factors, such as the use of certain medications or drugs, can also cause skin reactions or conditions that may lead to excessive fat or lipid accumulation on the skin 6
Factors Contributing to Skin Conditions
- Atopic dermatitis, a chronic inflammatory skin disease, can be exacerbated by various factors, including the use of certain skincare products or supplements 4, 5
- The use of enzymatic interesterified fats, which are commonly used in food industries, may have potential benefits for the skin, particularly in the prevention of atopic dermatitis 4
- Other skin conditions, such as psoriasis, may also be affected by the use of certain skincare products or supplements, and more research is needed to fully understand their effects 4
Importance of Further Research
- Further research is needed to fully understand the effects of various skincare products and supplements on the skin, particularly in relation to excessive fat or lipid accumulation 3, 4, 5, 2
- The use of controlled variables and different research designs, such as case studies and randomized controlled trials, may help to provide more accurate and reliable results 3
- Physicians and healthcare professionals should be aware of the potential risks and benefits of various skincare products and supplements, and educate their patients accordingly 2, 6