From the Guidelines
The relationship between acne vulgaris and dietary habits is significant, with certain foods triggering or worsening breakouts in susceptible individuals, particularly those consuming high-glycemic foods, dairy products, and whey protein supplements. The link between acne and diet is complex, but evidence suggests that dietary modifications can help manage acne by reducing inflammation, regulating hormones, and decreasing excess sebum production that contributes to clogged pores 1. High-glycemic foods, such as white bread, sugary drinks, and processed snacks, can raise blood sugar quickly, increasing insulin and promoting inflammation and oil production in the skin.
Dairy products, particularly skim milk, have been associated with acne in multiple studies, possibly due to hormones or proteins that influence skin cell production 1. Some people also experience flare-ups after consuming whey protein supplements, which can enhance the insulin and IGF-1-promoting elements of milk. To improve acne through diet, focusing on eating low-glycemic foods like whole grains, legumes, and vegetables, while limiting dairy, sugar, and highly processed foods, is recommended. Incorporating anti-inflammatory foods such as fatty fish, nuts, and colorful fruits and vegetables can also help manage acne.
While the evidence on the use of low-glycemic-load diets for acne treatment is conflicting, some studies suggest that it may be beneficial in reducing acne lesion counts and sebum production 1. However, more research is needed to fully understand the impact of dietary modifications on acne. Incorporating a low-glycemic-load diet as an adjuvant treatment for acne, given its low risk and potential health benefits, may be a helpful approach. Ultimately, dietary modifications should complement rather than replace conventional treatments like topical retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, or prescription medications when needed.
Key points to consider when managing acne through diet include:
- Limiting high-glycemic foods and dairy products
- Incorporating anti-inflammatory foods and low-glycemic foods
- Drinking plenty of water to support skin hydration and detoxification
- Considering the potential benefits of a low-glycemic-load diet as an adjuvant treatment for acne
- Using dietary modifications in conjunction with conventional treatments when needed.
From the Research
Relationship Between Acne Vulgaris and Dietary Habits
The relationship between acne vulgaris and dietary habits has been extensively studied, with various research papers providing insights into the potential links between diet and acne pathogenesis.
- A high glycemic index diet may trigger acne pathogenesis, while a low glycemic index diet has been associated with fewer acne lesions 2.
- Certain foods, such as milk and chocolate, may exacerbate acne, whereas foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, docosapentaenoic acid, and γ-linolenic acid may have therapeutic effects on acne lesions 2, 3.
- The consumption of dairy products, fatty and sugary foods, and sugary beverages has been linked to an increased risk of current acne in adults 4.
- An energy-dense dietary pattern, characterized by high consumption of fatty and sugary products, has also been associated with current acne 4.
- The link between nutrition and acne is still debated, but diet is recognized to have a direct relationship with certain biochemical markers and the transcription of genes related to sebaceous gland function, bacterial proliferation, and inflammation, which can contribute to the progression of acne vulgaris 5.
Key Dietary Factors
Some key dietary factors that have been identified as potentially influencing acne pathogenesis include:
- High glycemic index foods
- Dairy products, particularly milk and cheese
- Fatty and sugary foods
- Sugary beverages
- Chocolate
- Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, docosapentaenoic acid, and γ-linolenic acid
Study Findings
Studies have consistently shown that dietary habits can play a role in the development and severity of acne vulgaris. For example, a study published in the Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology found that moderate to severe acne was closely associated with high consumption of milk, cheese, sweets, and chocolate, as well as low consumption of fish and limited intake of fruits and vegetables 3. Another study published in JAMA Dermatology found that consumption of fatty and sugary products, sugary beverages, and milk was associated with current acne in adults 4.