Acne vulgaris (AV) is a chronic disease and affects a substantial percentage of the population globally. Both external and internal factors play role in its initiation. 

A review demonstrated the effect of basic nutrient intake on the exacerbation or alleviation of AV lesions. This retrospective review took into account diet therapy and the impact of individual nutrient intake on the skin condition of patients and found that- 

• High glycaemic index products, when ingested, may indirectly overproduce sebum, which encourages infection with Cutibacterium acnes and causes inflammation.
• Consumption of certain dairy products may cause skin damage provoked by the presence of hormones in these products, i.e., progesterone and testosterone precursors.
• Fatty acids may benefit the skin by reducing inflammation.
• Vitamins A, C, D, E and B, as well as mineral elements zinc and selenium have a significant role in treating AV.
• Proper nutrition helps in preventing or alleviating AV along with increasing treatment efficacy.

Diet greatly decides the condition of the skin. Thus consuming appropriate food products and supplementation will not only prevent AV and alleviate lesions but also facilitate treatment of the condition. Particular importance is ingesting vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins and minerals with antioxidant properties, prebiotics and probiotics, and additional use of green tea extract, and reducing the consumption of milk, salty and spicy foods and products with a high glycaemic index.

SOURCE- Podgórska A, PuÅ›cion-Jakubik A, Markiewicz-Å»ukowska R, Gromkowska-KÄ™pka KJ, Socha K. Acne Vulgaris and Intake of Selected Dietary Nutrients-A Summary of Information. Healthcare (Basel). 2021;9(6):668. doi:10.3390/healthcare9060668