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The role of exposome in acne: results from an international patient survey

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Background: Acne severity and its response to treatment may be influenced by internal and external factors: the exposome. Objectives: The aim of this international real-life survey was to assess the most involved exposome factors in acne. Methods: 11000 individuals, aged between 15 and 39 years, with clinically confirmed acne or without acne, defined by age, gender and prevalence, were invited to participate in an internet survey of 63 questions in order to assess the frequency of identified acne exposome factors. Results: Data from 6679 questionnaires were used for statistical analysis purposes: 2826 from the acne group and 3853 from the control group. Nibbling, consumption of dairy products, sweets, alcohol, or whey proteins, as well as exposure to pollution, stress, certain mechanical factors and humid or hot weather or sun exposure, were significantly (all P≤0.05) more frequently reported for the acne group than for the control group. This was not the case for tobacco consumption. Data regarding the impact of cannabis consumption were insufficient for drawing any conclusions. Conclusions: Data from this international, anonymized internet questionnaire conducted with more than almost 6700 participants add new arguments to assumptions made that certain exposome factors have an impact on acne. Nutrition, pollution, stress and harsh skin care, as well as climate and sun exposure may be considered the most frequent factors related to acne.
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ORIGINAL ARTICLE
The role of exposome in acne: results from an international
patient survey
B. Dreno,
1,
* J. Shourick,
2
D. Kerob,
3
A. Bouloc,
4
C. Ta
ıeb
5,6
1
Department of Dermato-Cancerology, CHU Nantes-H^
otel-Dieu CRCINA, Inserm 1232, CIC 1413, University of Nantes, Nantes,
France
2
Bio Informatics/statistics, University of Paris Sud, Paris, France
3
Vichy Laboratoire Internationale, Levallois-Perret, France
4
Private Practice, Paris, France
5
EMMA, Fontenay-sous-Bois, France
6
Sant
e Publique, CHU Necker-Enfants malades, Paris, France
*Correspondence: B. Dreno. E-mail: brigitte.dreno@atlanmed.fr
Abstract
Background Acne severity and its response to treatment may be inuenced by internal and external factors: the
exposome.
Objectives The aim of this international real-life survey was to assess the most involved exposome factors in acne.
Methods Eleven thousand individuals, aged between 15 and 39 years, with clinically conrmed acne or without acne,
dened by age, gender and prevalence, were invited to participate in an Internet survey of 63 questions in order to
assess the frequency of identied acne exposome factors.
Results Data from 6679 questionnaires were used for statistical analysis purposes: 2826 from the acne group and
3853 from the control group. Nibbling, consumption of dairy products, sweets, alcohol or whey proteins, as well as expo-
sure to pollution, stress, certain mechanical factors and humid or hot weather or sun exposure, were signicantly (all
P0.05) more frequently reported for the acne group than for the control group. This was not the case for tobacco con-
sumption. Data regarding the impact of cannabis consumption were insufcient for drawing any conclusions.
Conclusions Data from this international, anonymized Internet questionnaire conducted with more than almost 6700
participants add new arguments to assumptions made that certain exposome factors have an impact on acne. Nutrition,
pollution, stress and harsh skincare, as well as climate and sun exposure may be considered the most frequent factors
related to acne.
Received: 17 October 2019; Accepted: 13 November 2019
Conict of interest
The authors have no conict of interest to disclose.
Funding source
The study was nancially supported by Vichy Laboratoire, France.
Introduction
Acne is inflammatory disease of the pilosebaceous follicle occur-
ring commonly in adolescents and sometimes in adults. It is
associated with hyperseborrhoea altering the epithelium of the
follicle with formation of comedones, a modification of the
microbiote called dysbiosis targeting mainly Propionibacterium
acnes (P. acnes) causing an activation of the innate immunity
and thus inflammation.
1
Skin is one of the major interfaces between the body and the
external environment and is one of the main routes for the pene-
tration of pathogens into the body.
2
The primary role of the skin
is to serve as a physical barrier, protecting our body from
potential assault from foreign organisms, toxic substances or any
other external physical, chemical or organic factors.
2,3
The term ‘exposome’ describes the sum of environmental
and internal exposures to which an individual is subjected
from conception to death.
4
The definition of exposome has
varied over time.
48
In 2017, a study evaluated the impact of
exposome on skin ageing for the first time and proposed the
following exposome categories: sun radiation [ultraviolet
(UV) radiation, visible light and infrared radiation], air pol-
lution, tobacco smoke, nutrition, a number of less well stud-
ied, miscellaneous factors, as well as cosmetic products and
aesthetic procedures.
9
©2019 European Academy of Dermatology and VenereologyJEADV 2020, 34, 10571064
DOI: 10.1111/jdv.16119 JEADV
In 2018, Dr
eno et al.
10
analysed the potential role of expo-
some in acne by means of a literature review. According to the
literature studied, nutrition, medication, occupational factors,
pollutants, weather factors as well as psychosocial and lifestyle
factors impact the course and severity of the disease and treat-
ment efficacy. Moreover, the authors pointed out that external
exposome factors act on the natural skin barrier and on the skin
microbiota, resulting in increased sebum production, hyperkera-
tinisation, modification of the microbiote and activation of the
innate immunity, resulting in the exacerbation of acne.
11,12
They
concluded that identifying the most frequent exposome factors
that trigger acne and reducing their impact is mandatory for
adequate acne management.
The aim of the present large international real-life survey was
to confirm from a patient prospect, the influence of the most
frequent internal and external exposome factors involved in acne
described by Dreno et al.
10
Methodology
This international, anonymized survey was conducted between
December 2018 and January 2019 via Internet in France, Ger-
many, Italy, Brazil, Canada and Russia, with 11 000 participants
with clinically confirmed acne or without acne (control group)
and who agreed to participate in Internet surveys. The acne
group was defined as the individuals with clinically diagnosed
acne through auto-questioning: subjects had to confirm that
their acne was clinically confirmed by a physician. Moreover,
individuals had to confirm that they used a prescribed acne
treatment or a recommended acne care at the time the question-
naire was completed.
The survey was conducted by means of local databases of
Internet users who agreed to participate in surveys. It com-
plied with local data protection laws and did not require inde-
pendent review board or independent ethics committee
approvals. Participants did not provide written informed con-
sent for participation. The survey was comprised of 63 ques-
tions and was compiled by the authors, based on the article
by Dr
eno et al.
10
It assessed age, gender, socio-economic fea-
tures, skin types, presence of acne and current acne treatment,
as well as 6 internal and external exposome factors (nutrition
and nutritional supplements, occupational factors, medica-
tions, pollutants, psychosocial and modern lifestyle factors,
weather conditions) as defined by Dr
eno et al.
10
; the different
chapters of the survey are presented in Table 1. A modified
version of a previously used algorithm to define the two study
groups was applied.
13
Briefly, a polling institute (H. Chevalier
Conseil, Paris France, supported by Quantar Health Care,
Paris, France, both specialized in the conduct of health-related
surveys) conducted the survey. A sample of the target study
population aged 1539 years in both groups was recruited
using the stratified random sampling method. Based on local
databases of Internet users, fixed quotas of subjects fulfilling
predefined criteria were recruited. Drawing on national popu-
lation data, these quotas were based on the following aspects:
age, gender and acne prevalence, thereby ensuring the accurate
representation of the sample population and the same repre-
sentation in the acne and control groups.
Statistical analyses were performed using R software version
3.5.1 (The R Project for Statistical Computing, The R Founda-
tion, Vienna, Austria).
Data concerning individuals between 15 and 39 years of age
were extracted from the survey database. Quantitative variables
were expressed as means and standard deviations. Qualitative
variables were expressed as frequencies and percentages. Com-
parisons between both groups were performed using the Wil-
coxon test in the case of quantitative variables; for categorical
variables, intergroup comparisons were carried out with the chi-
squared test. The level of significance was set at 5%. Each vari-
able was evaluated in a univariate analysis adjusted for age, in
order to identify factors associated with acne. Then, all variables
associated with acne at a probability threshold of 0.1 were
entered into a multiple logistic regression analysis. With this
model, variables were retained in a stepwise manner in order to
determine those variables that were independently associated
with acne at a probability threshold of 0.05. Odds ratios (OR)
were consequently generated.
Results
Demographic and socio-economic data
In total, 11 000 individuals participated in the survey and data
from 6679 were usable for statistical analysis purposes: 2826
(42.3%) in the acne group and 3853 (57.7%) in the control
group. The remaining 4321 questionnaires were incomplete,
started, but not validated, or were completed but not validated
by the users. Mean age, gender distribution and phototype were
similar in both groups; the body mass index (BMI) was signifi-
cantly higher (P<0.001) in participants with acne (24.90) than
in those without acne (23.99). Details regarding patient demo-
graphics are provided in Table 2.
Table 1 Survey structure
1 Introduction
2 Screening
3 Quotas et socio-economic information
4 Phototype
5 Nutrition and nutritional supplements
6 Occupational factors: cosmetics and mechanical factors
7 Medications: contraception, anabolic steroids testosterone
8 Pollutants: industrial and air pollutants, tobacco, cannabis and alco-
hol consumption
9 Psychosocial and modern lifestyle factors: stress, emotions, sleep
deprivation, socio-economic pressures, excessive artificial light
exposure (tablets, smartphones, computers)
10 Weather conditions: heat, humidity, ultraviolet radiation
©2019 European Academy of Dermatology and VenereologyJEADV 2020, 34, 10571064
1058 Dreno et al.
Nutrition and nutritional supplements
The data analysis regarding nutrition and nutritional supple-
ments showed that significantly more (P<0.001) individuals
with acne (48.2%, 1362/2826) consumed dairy products on a
daily basis compared to individuals who did not (38.8%, 1494/
3853). The difference was also statistically significant (all
P<0.001) for soft drinks, fruit juices or syrups, pastry, choco-
late and sweets.
Significantly more (P<0.001) participants in the acne group
(61.9%, 1748/2826) than in the non-acne group (43.2%, 1665/
3853) reported frequent and regular nibbling during the
12 months preceding the survey and significantly more
(P<0.001) individuals in the acne (11.0%, 311/2826) than in the
acne-free group (7.3%, 281/3853) reported the regular consump-
tion of whey proteins during the 12 months preceding the survey.
Probiotic consumption was significantly (P<0.001) higher
in individuals with acne (16.4%, 464/2826) than in acne-free
individuals (5.2%, 202/3853).
Detailed results including OR are provided in Fig. 1.
Medication
The use of contraceptives was significantly higher (P<0.001) in
individuals with acne (39.0%, 677/1746) than in acne-free indi-
viduals (30.5%, 743/2436). Oral contraceptives were perceived as
reducing acne in 42.7% (286/677) of individuals with acne, while
26.5% (247/677) declared that they had no influence on their
acne. 20.8% (141/677) declared that they increased their acne.
In acne-free individuals, a large majority (79.5%) declared
that their contraception had no influence on their skin.
Three times more individuals with acne (12.0%, 338/2826)
than acne-free individuals (3.8%, 122/3853) declared the regular
use of anabolic drugs during the 12 months preceding the sur-
vey, the difference was statistically significant (P<0.001).
Significantly more (P<0.001) individuals with acne than
without reported the intake of anti-depressants, anti-epileptics
or corticoids.
Table 3 provides detailed results.
Occupational factors
More than one-third of individuals with acne (35.4%, 999/2826)
compared to 16.7% (645/3 853) without used an electric brush
to clean their face (P<0.001; the OR was: 0.44, CI 95%: (0.39;
0.48), P<0.0001].
Significantly more (P<0.001) individuals with acne (56.5%,
1596/2826) than those without (36.3%, 1397/3853) applied
essential or plant oils to their face and 71.05% (2008/2826) of
the first group compared to 43.2% (1664/3853) of the latter
declared using scrubs [OR: 4.99, CI 95%: (4.28; 5.81),
P<0.0001] or peelings [57.8%, 1633/2826 vs 33.1%, 1275/3853;
OR: 3.35, CI 95%: (2.95; 3.81), P<0.0001] at least or even daily
on their face. Differences were all statistically significant
(P<0.001).
Pollutants
Significantly more (P<0.001) individuals with acne than acne-
free individuals reported living close to an airport (10.9%, 308/
2826 vs 7.2%, 276/3853), to an industrial site (15.6%, 428/2826
vs 9.9%, 380/3853) or to cultivated land (21.2%, 598/2826 vs
Table 2 Demographic and socio-economic data
Without acne
n=3853
With acne
n=2826
P-value
Gender (n,%)
Female (n, %) 2436 63.22 1746 61.78 0.26
Male (n, %) 1417 36.78 1080 38.22
Age (years SD) 25.73 7.26 25.47 7.42 NS
Distribution according to age
1519 years (n, %) 705 24.9% 1127 29.2% <0.001
2024 years (n, %) 863 30.5% 1127 29.2%
2539 years (n, %) 1258 44.5% 1599 41.5%
Weight (kg) 67.93 18.32 69.21 16.02 NS
Body Mass Index 24.90 23.99 <0.001
Socio-economic category
Upper category (n, %) 969 34.3% 1021 26.5% <0.001
Lower category (n, %) 1181 41.8% 1659 43.1%
Unemployed (n, %) 676 23.9% 1173 30.4%
Residence (n,%)
Urban (n, %) 1668 59.0% 1874 48.6% <0.001
Suburban. mid-size town (n, %) 691 24.5% 957 24.8%
Countryside, small-size town (n, %) 467 16.5% 1022 26.5%
NS, not signicant.
©2019 European Academy of Dermatology and VenereologyJEADV 2020, 34, 10571064
The role of exposome in acne 1059
19.21%, 740/3853). A large majority of individuals with acne
compared to those without were exposed significantly more
often to tar (9.3%, 262/2826 vs 2.3%, 164/3853; P<0.001),
solvent emanation and crude oil (10.7%, 301/2826 vs 4.7%,
182/3853) or oil emanation (13.1%, 371/2826 vs 7.8%, 301/
3853). A statistically significant difference (P<0.001) for
anthropic pollutants (tobacco, cannabis or alcohol consump-
tion) between both groups was only shown for alcohol con-
sumption: (56.5%, 1597/2826 vs 43.0%, 1656/3853). No
significant difference was shown for tobacco consumption. Due
to legal restrictions in certain countries concerning cannabis
consumption, the available sample size of individuals consum-
ing cannabis was insufficient for making any statistically vali-
dated observation.
Detailed results for all sub-factors including OR are provided
in Table 4.
Psychosocial and modern lifestyle
When rating the level of stress on a visual analogue scale ranging
from 0 (none) to 10 (very high), a significantly higher
(P<0.001) mean score was observed in individuals with acne
(5.9 2.3) compared to those without (5.0 2.7).
The prevalence of individuals suffering from important and
extremely high-stress levels was significantly higher (P<0.001)
in individuals with acne (51.0%, 1440/2826) than in acne-free
individuals (29.0%, 1118/3853).
Significantly more (P<0.001) individuals with acne (54.6%,
1542/2826) than without (47.6%, 1834/3853) reported lacking
sleep and significantly more (P<0.001) individuals without
acne (52.4%, 2020/3853) than those with (50.3%, 1420/2826)
reported restful sleep.
In both groups, the exposure to screens and tablets just before
falling asleep was reported by a large majority of individuals with
significantly more individuals (P<0.001) in the acne (91.3%,
2580/2826) than in the acne-free group (85.2%, 3281/3853).
Detailed results including OR are provided in Table 5.
Weather factors
There was no significant difference in prevalence of individuals
with or without acne living in temperate or cold regions. Con-
versely, acne was significantly more frequent in hot [24.6% (696/
2826) vs 17.1% (659/3853)] or humid regions [13.0% (367/2826)
vs 11.5% (442/3853); P<0.001 and P<0.03, respectively].
Acne was significantly (P<0.01) more frequent in individu-
als with moderate or intensive sun exposure due to their work or
daily activities [42.8% (1208/2826) vs 31.6% (1216/3853)].
Details are given in Table 6.
Discussion
Data from this international, anonymized Internet questionnaire
conducted with almost 6700 participants add new arguments to
assumptions made that certain exposome factors have an impact
on acne.
The survey showed that significantly more individuals with
acne live in an urban area have an upper socio-economic cate-
gory and a significantly higher BMI (all P<0.001).
Nibbling and the consumption of dairy products, sweets,
alcohol or whey proteins were reported significantly more often
38.80%
48.20%
31.00%
35.60%
28.60%
39.90%
27.80%
37.00%
19.10%
29.70%
43.20%
61.90%
7.30%
11.00%
5.20%
16.40%
Consumption of probiotics
OR 1.65 [1.44;1.89], P <0.0001
Consumption of whey protein
OR 3.94 [3.29;4.71], P <0.0001
Consumption of sweets
OR 0.47 [0.42;0.52], P <0.0001
Consumption of chocolate
OR 1.79 [1.62;1.7], P <0.0001
Consumption of sodas juices or syrups
OR 1.66 [1.5;1.84], P <0.0001
Daily consumption of dairy products
OR 1.21 [1.1;1.35], P <0.0001
Consumption of pastry
OR 1.52 [1.38;1.69], P <0.0001
Nibbling: frequency and regurlarly
OR 3.57 [3.0;4.25], P <0.0001
0 10 20304050 6070
Percentage (%)
Figure 1 Impact of nutrition and nutritional supplements during the 12 months preceding the survey. OR, odds ratio, (condence
interval) 95%, P=P-value.
©2019 European Academy of Dermatology and VenereologyJEADV 2020, 34, 10571064
1060 Dreno et al.
(all P0.05) by individuals with acne and confirmed observa-
tions previously made.
1436
Not surprisingly, the intake of probi-
otics was significantly (P<0.001) higher in individuals with
acne. This may be due to the fact that probiotics are becoming
more and more popular and that their use is encouraged more
and more via social networks and Internet blogs than by derma-
tologists or other physicians, even though promising study
results exist.
37,38
The survey further confirms that individuals with acne con-
sider that oral contraception significantly reduces their acne
(P<0.001). Despite this, almost 21% of individuals in this
group reported that they consider that their contraception had
worsened their acne. This observation may be explained by the
use of 1st or 2nd generation contraceptive pills, a phenomenon
already described in 2016 by Leclerc-Mercier et al.
39
and who
also reported that the use of 3rd or 4th generation contraceptive
pills improve acne as these contraceptives contain the most often
low or non-androgenic progestin (desogestrel, gestodene) not
activating the androgen receptors of sebaceous glands and even
blocking this receptor for certain HCPs. However, we were not
able to confirm this allegation using the data collected.
Moreover, three times more individuals with acne regularly used
anabolic steroids, indirectly confirming scientific data suggesting
an acne-stimulating action of these molecules.
4042
Use of cer-
tain other medications, such as anti-depressants, anti-epileptics
or corticoids, was more frequently observed in individuals with
acne, confirming their role in the induction of acne-like lesions,
according to Dr
eno et al.
10
According to the participants, hot and humid climates, as well
as sun exposure, play a significant role in acne. These findings
confirm observations made in the past and also very recently by
Narang et al.
4347
One of the lipids produced by human seba-
ceous glands on the face and torso is squalene. This unsaturated
fatty acid represents ~1015% of sebum and is readily oxidized by
ozone, long UV rays and tobacco smoke.
48
These oxidized sebum
lipids cause keratinocyte hyperproliferation and inflammatory
cytokine release, leading ultimately to the onset or worsening of
acne. However, in acne, the association between sebum oxidation
and comedogenesis has not been investigated thoroughly.
49
The survey also confirmed that exposure to pollution or to
stress and to certain mechanical factors, such as the use of a
dermo-roller or harsh cleansing of the face, is more frequently
Table 3 Impact of medication
Without acne
n=2436
With acne
n=1746
P-value
Use of oral contraceptive (n,%) 743 30.5 677 39.0 <0.001
The oral contraceptive n=187 n=677
Increased acne (n, %) 0 0 141 20.8
Reduced acne (n, %) 0 0 289 42.7
Impact (n, %) 187 4.6 247 36.5
The contraceptive had an impact on the skin n=741 n=430
Yes (n, %) 150 20.2 141 20.8
No (n, %) 591 79.5 289 42.7
Intake of a hormonal treatment based on
steroids or testosterone during the last 12
months (n,%)
n=3853 n=2826
122 3.2 338 12.0 <0.001
OR 3.03
CI 95% (2.27; 4.03)
P-value <0.0001
Intake during the last 12 months of (n,%)
An antidepressant 338 8.8 472 16.7 <0.001
OR 0.35
CI 95% (0.3; 0.42)
P-value <0.0001
An antiepileptic 71 1.8 153 5.4 <0.001
OR 3.93
CI 95% (3.17; 4.88)
P-value <0.0001
Oral or IV Corticodes 120 3.1 319 11.3 <0.001
OR 4.9
CI 95% (3.54; 6.79)
P-value <0.0001
CI, condence interval; IV, intravenous; OR, odd ratio.
©2019 European Academy of Dermatology and VenereologyJEADV 2020, 34, 10571064
The role of exposome in acne 1061
observed in individuals with acne.
48,5058
It did not confirm the
link between acne and tobacco, thereby endorsing the data of
the literature with divergent results reported in a recent paper
with by Wolkenstein et al.
13,59
Due to legal constraints concerning the consumption of can-
nabis in certain countries, we were unable to assess the link of
cannabis consumption in a sufficiently large study population,
thereby not providing any conclusions.
Table 4 Impact of pollution factors
Without acne
n=3853
With acne
n=2826
P-value
Lives close to
An airport (n, %) 276 7.2 308 11.0 <0.001
OR (CI 95%) P-value 0.37 (0.33; 0.41) <0.0001
An industry facility (n, %) 380 9.9 428 15.2 <0.001
OR (CI 95%) P-value 1.58 (1.33; 1.87) <0.0001
Cultivated land (n, %) 740 19.2 598 21.2 <0.001
OR (CI 95%) P-value 1.63 (1.4; 1.89) <0.0001
Exposure during work to
Tar (n, %) 164 4.3 262 9.3 <0.001
OR (CI 95%) P-value 1.44 (1.31; 1.59) <0.0001
Solvent emanations, crude oil (n, %) 182 4.7 301 10.7 <0.001
OR (CI 95%) P-value 2.29 (1.87; 2.81) <0.0001
Oil emanations (n, %) 301 7.8 371 13.1 <0.001
OR (CI 95%) P-value 2.39 (1.97; 2.89) <0.0001
Tobacco consumption
Does not smoke (n, %) 2722 70.7 2033 71.9 <0.001
Smokes occasionally or daily (n, %) 1131 29.4 793 28.1
OR (CI 95%) P-value 4.14 (3.35; 5.13) <0.0001
Alcohol consumption (n,%) N= 3853 N= 2826
1656 43.0 1597 56.5 <0.001
OR (CI 95%) P-value 1.34 (1.05; 1.7) <0.0001
Cannabis consumption (n,%) N= 1016 N= 740
169 16.6 156 21.1 NS
CI, condence interval; NS, not signicant; OR, odd ratio.
Table 5 Impact of psychosocial and modern lifestyle factors
Without acne
n=3853
With acne
n=2826
P-value
Stress felt
Score expressed on VAS (meanSD) 5 2.7 5.9 2.3 <0.001
OR (CI 95%) P-value 1.78 (1.52; 2.09) <0.0001
Stress felt
No or moderate stress (n, %) 2735 18.9 1386 12.1 <0.001
Important or extreme stress (n, %) 1118 29.0 1440 51.0
OR (CI 95%) P-value 1.15 (1.12; 1.17) <0.0001
Lacking sleep (n, %) 1834 47.6 1542 54.6 <0.001
OR (CI 95%) P-value 1.79 (1.621.98) <0.0001
Repairing sleep (n,%)
Yes 2020 52.4 1420 50.3 <0.001
No 1833 47.6 1406 49.8
OR (CI 95%) P-value 1.33 (1.211.47) <0.0001
Looking at a screen/tablet the hour before falling asleep
Several times per week or every evening (n, %) 3281 85.2 2580 91.3 <0.001
Rarely or never (n, %) 572 14.9 246 8.7
OR (CI 95%) P-value 1.83 (1.562.14) <0.0001
CI, condence interval; OR, odd ratio; VAS, visual analogue scale (010).
©2019 European Academy of Dermatology and VenereologyJEADV 2020, 34, 10571064
1062 Dreno et al.
Our study has several limitations. Patients reported themselves
that they suffered from acne. Even though the questionnaire
requested that acne had to be confirmed by a clinician prior to
participation, the design of the study, using an anonymous Inter-
net questionnaire did not allow to confirm the inclusion criteria.
Thus potentially, patients with rosacea, erythema or other acne-
like conditions could have participated. Moreover, products used
to manage their acne might not have been described or recom-
mended by a physician. Despite these limitations and the poten-
tial bias due to the Internet study design, our results confirm for
the first time and on a large international level, assumptions
made and presented by Dr
eno et al. in 2018.
10
Our data confirm that among the questioned internal and
external exposome factors, nutrition, pollution, stress, harsh
skincare, temperature, humidity and sun exposure had a signifi-
cant impact on acne, thereby confirming published results and
allegations, our methodological approach and that a holistic
approach is necessary for the efficient management of acne.
Acknowledgements
The authors acknowledge the participants of this survey and the
writing and editing support of Karl Patrick G
oritz, SMWS Sci-
entific and Medical Writing Services, France.
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Table 6 Impact of weather factors and sun exposure
Without acne
n=3853
With acne
n=2826
P-value
Do you or have you lived during the last 12 months in a region or country with
Temperate weather 1989 51.62% 1428 50.53% NS
Particularly hot weather 659 17.10% 696 24.63% <0.001
Particularly cold weather 581 15.08% 446 15.78% NS
Particularly humid weather 442 11.47% 367 12.99% 0.03
Due to your job or your daily activities or exposure to sun light is
Intense or moderate 1216 31.56% 1208 42.75% <0.001
Low or none 2637 68.44% 1618 57.25%
NS, not signicant.
©2019 European Academy of Dermatology and VenereologyJEADV 2020, 34, 10571064
The role of exposome in acne 1063
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1064 Dreno et al.
... Age (year), X ± SD (range) 23.65 ± 6.24 (18)(19)(20)(21)(22)(23)(24)(25)(26)(27)(28)(29)(30)(31)(32)(33)(34)(35) BMI (kg/m 2 ), X ± SD (range) 24 The mean age of the women was 23.65 ± 6.24 (range: [18][19][20][21][22][23][24][25][26][27][28][29][30][31][32][33][34][35] years. In the study group, 88% were single, 76% were learning, and 65% had middle level of education. ...
... Age (year), X ± SD (range) 23.65 ± 6.24 (18)(19)(20)(21)(22)(23)(24)(25)(26)(27)(28)(29)(30)(31)(32)(33)(34)(35) BMI (kg/m 2 ), X ± SD (range) 24 The mean age of the women was 23.65 ± 6.24 (range: [18][19][20][21][22][23][24][25][26][27][28][29][30][31][32][33][34][35] years. In the study group, 88% were single, 76% were learning, and 65% had middle level of education. ...
... The results of other studies have shown that the habit of drinking alcohol is a predisposing factor to the occurrence of acne [33]. Alcohol increases the production of proinflammatory cytokines and suppresses the immune system, which leads to changes in the skin microbiome [34]. In our study, almost half of the young women reported drinking alcohol once a week or more often. ...
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Acne vulgaris (AV) significantly reduces the quality of life (QoL) of young people, so it is important to look for factors that can improve their QoL. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between dietary antioxidants measured using the new DAQI index and QoL measured using standardized tests. The DAQI included the following elements: antioxidant vitamins, minerals, carotenoids, polyphenols, phytosterols, lignans, and the total antioxidant capacity of the diet. The study involved 165 young women with AV, mainly students. A self-report survey was used to collect basic data on their sociodemographic status, anthropometric information, and lifestyle. The energy value of the diet and the content of vitamins, minerals, and carotenoids with antioxidant activity in the diet were estimated using 3-day food diaries and the Diet 6.0 program. The antioxidant potential of the diet and the content of polyphenols, phytosterols, lignans, and selenium were calculated based on the consumption of individual food products and available databases. The results of this study showed that the QoL of the young women with AV was impaired. However, greater adherence to an antioxidant diet reduces the risk of AV impact on the QoL by approximately 30–32% and the risk of depression by 33%. The DAQI may be used as a new indicator of diet quality in acne vulgaris.
... Alcohol intake seems to play a role as a possible determinant for acne. Many crossborder investigations in European and Asian populations have demonstrated that alcohol abusers have a markedly greater prospect of acne than abstainers [67,68,[90][91][92]. However, Shen et al. showed that the prevalence of acne among people over 25 years of age was 5.5% in chronic alcoholics, 5.8% in moderate drinkers, and 5.5% in abstinents, which would suggest that alcohol does not seem to be a determinant for acne among adults [93]. ...
... in the long term, it damages the immune system, linking bacteria proclivity to changes in the dermal microbiome and acne aggravation, and. when expelled with perspiration, functions as a food component for C. acnes [30,92]. ...
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Acne vulgaris is a widespread a chronic inflammatory dermatosis that affects millions of people around the world, which has a significant influence on patients’ standard of living. The progression of this dermatosis results in the appearance of inflammatory and non-inflammatory changes, and, in severe cases, disfiguring scars and hyperpigmentation. The aetiopathogenesis of acne is complex. It involves a complex interaction of many different factors, both endo- and exogenous in their effect on the hair and sebaceous unit. Genetic predisposition, hormones, the skin and gut microbiome, psychological stress, air pollutants, aggressive facial products, and certain medications are cited as factors influencing acne formation. The link between nutrition and acne is extensively debated for many years and is still relatively controversial. Diet is commonly recognised to have a direct relationship with certain biochemical markers and the transcription of genes related to sebaceous gland function, and the proliferation of bacteria and inflammation that encourage the progression of the disease. In this review, the authors take a closer look at the existing scientific reports on the involvement of nutrition in the development of acne vulgaris.
... These data do yet not allow to confirm the hypothesis that SR components impact not only directly the immune responses of the body but also indirectly through modifications of the skin microbiome. 35 While the beneficial and deleterious impact of SR components on inflammatory skin diseases such as atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and acne has been well described the microbiota may also play a role in the host's immune response during or following exposure to SR. 13,42,44,[106][107][108][109][110][111][112][113][114][115][116][117][118] Investigating the global metabolic profile of the skin regarding the microbiome and UVR, as well as together with other environmental factors such as pollution or climate change, provided interesting and new insights into the dynamics and interactions between the skin metabolome, microbiome, and UVR creating new axes for the development of metabolite-or lipid-based claims to maintain skin health. 119 While, again, there is no direct evidence that UVR has a deleterious impact on the skin microbiome and through this impact causes or worsens existing skin conditions, there is evidence that UVR destroys substances such as porphyrins which are absorbed in the long UVA range and especially in the visible range and which are produced by several microorganisms including the skin commensal Cutibacterium acnes and Pseudomona aeruginosa. ...
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The skin microbiome undergoes constant exposure to solar radiation (SR), with its effects on health well‐documented. However, understanding SR's influence on host‐associated skin commensals remains nascent. This review surveys existing knowledge on SR's impact on the skin microbiome and proposes innovative sun protection methods that safeguard both skin integrity and microbiome balance. A team of skin photodamage specialists conducted a comprehensive review of 122 articles sourced from PubMed and Research Gateway. Key terms included skin microbiome, photoprotection, photodamage, skin cancer, ultraviolet radiation, solar radiation, skin commensals, skin protection, and pre/probiotics. Experts offered insights into novel sun protection products designed not only to shield the skin but also to mitigate SR's effects on the skin microbiome. Existing literature on SR's influence on the skin microbiome is limited. SR exposure can alter microbiome composition, potentially leading to dysbiosis, compromised skin barrier function, and immune system activation. Current sun protection methods generally overlook microbiome considerations. Tailored sun protection products that prioritize both skin and microbiome health may offer enhanced defense against SR‐induced skin conditions. By safeguarding both skin and microbiota, these specialized products could mitigate dysbiosis risks associated with SR exposure, bolstering skin defense mechanisms and reducing the likelihood of SR‐mediated skin issues.
... As a growing body of evidence points to the impact of so-called exposome factors, including diet, on acne severity [61][62][63], clinicians should be aware of this and be able to address relevant questions from patients. This study adds new insight into feasible lifestyle changes to support acne treatment. ...
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Omega-3 fatty acids (ω-3 FAs) exert anti-inflammatory effects, including the downregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines, eicosanoids, and insulin-like growth factor-1. Therefore, they may improve acne severity as an adjunct treatment. However, there is a paucity of data regarding patients’ existing deficits. The aim of this study was to determine ω-3 FA levels in acne patients in correlation with self-reported dietary preferences and clinical severity. A single-center, cross-sectional study of 100 acne patients was conducted. Patients’ blood parameters, including ω-3 FAs levels, were assessed using the HS-omega-3 Index® in erythrocytes (Omegametrix® GmbH, Martinsried, Germany). Dietary preferences were assessed using a standardized food frequency questionnaire. Clinical dermatologic evaluation was performed using the Investigator Global Assessment (IGA) of acne. The values of the HS-omega-3 Index® were outside the recommended range of 8–11% in 96 patients (mean 5.15%), independent of the clinical severity or affected anatomic sites. A severe deficit (HS-omega-3 Index® < 4%) was seen more commonly in men than in women (p = 0.021). The regular consumption of legumes was significantly associated with higher ω-3 FA levels (p = 0.003), as was oral ω-3 FA supplementation (p = 0.006) and the lack of sunflower oil intake (p = 0.008). This pilot study demonstrated a deficit of ω-3 FAs in a German acne cohort. Higher ω-3 FAs levels were observed in patients with regular legume intake and oral ω-3 FAs supplementation. Further prospective studies are needed to investigate whether the clinical severity of acne improves in patients with normal HS-omega-3 Index®.
... Twenty-one percent (n=15) of patients were exposed to halogenated oils, of which 4.2% (n=3) of patients developed AOA. the results suggested that individuals had an increased likelihood of having AOA with a mineral oil or halogenated hydrocarbon use as well as sweating/humidity/elevated temperatures. In a study by Shourick et al., they found that people exposed to solvent emanation, tar, oil emanation, or crude oil are more likely to develop AOA [7]. Six percent (n=4) of patients in healthcare who wore masks for more than seven hours a day for six days a week experienced mask-induced acne in our study. ...
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Background: In recent years, the aesthetic appearance of the skin has emerged as a crucial factor influencing perceptions of beauty and contributing to self-confidence. The pursuit of flawless skin represents a prevalent focus within beauty regimens. Adult-onset acne (AOA) is the development of acne between the ages of 26 to 50 and it is emerging as a prevalent dermatological concern among this population. Individuals perceiving their skin as falling short of an 'ideal' standard may let it affect their quality of life. Significant gaps in our understanding persist regarding the contributing risk factors for AOA. Objective: The study aims to assess both established and novel risk factors potentially influencing the onset of adult acne. Additionally, it seeks to calculate the odds ratio (OR) for AOA in both females and males exposed to the surveyed risk factors over a 24-month period. Materials and methods: Various risk factors were assessed, including stress, hormonal markers, psychological factors, environmental exposures, dietary habits, and cosmetic use. A total of 140 participants, consisting of 70 healthy individuals were selected. Discordant groups were analyzed for AOA. Detailed interviews were conducted to obtain a comprehensive medical history, focusing on potential risk factors, for patients diagnosed with acne. The OR was calculated to determine the likelihood of association between risk factors and the development of AOA. A proper protocol was devised, and statistical data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS; IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA). Results: The most significant risk factors in the development of AOA in the Indian population based on OR and confidence interval (CI) were positive personal history of acne (OR 3.12 [95% CI 1.20 - 8.03]), positive family history of acne (OR 10.24 [95% CI 2.89 - 36.1]), overweight BMI (OR 6.16 [95% CI 2.56 - 14.76]), hormonal imbalance (OR 9.27 [95% CI 2.03 - 42.29]), menstrual irregularity in females (OR 12.94 [95% CI 3.59 - 46.53]), exposure to mineral oil or halogenated hydrocarbon use (OR 4.13 [95% CI 1.28 - 13.24]), less than six hours of sleep (OR 4.16 [95% CI 1.10 - 15.64]), chemical peels in females (OR 11.28 [95% CI 2.45 - 51.90]), diet consisting mainly of carbohydrates, high salt, saturated fats (OR 29.97 [95% CI 3.84 - 227.25]) and less than 2 liters of water intake in patients (OR 19.18 [95% CI 1.08 - 339.04]). Risk factors that were associated with a decreased likelihood of AOA included normal menstruation (OR 0.03 [95% CI 0.01 - 0.12]), healthy oral intake (OR 0.04 [95% CI 0.00 - 0.17]), no psychological stressors/depression/anxiety (OR 0.43 [95% CI 0.21 - 0.85]), no environmental factors (OR 0.07 [95% CI 0.02 - 0.24]), no associated cosmetic use (OR 0.45 [95% CI 0.22 - 0.90]), normal BMI (OR 0.18 [95% CI 0.07 - 0.39]), no history of acne (OR 0.12 [95% CI 0.05 - 0.26]). Conclusion: AOA is a complex and multifactorial condition, and most of the risk factors mentioned in this study on Indian skin type contribute to its development. The approach for AOA should be holistic. In addition to following a recommended treatment protocol, education should be provided about lifestyle modification, stress management, exercise, and environmental factors to help prevent and manage AOA.
... Many cross-sectional studies conducted among European and Asian populations have found that individuals consuming alcohol exhibit a significantly higher risk for developing acne compared with abstainers. [8][9][10][11] The effects of alcohol consumption on adolescent acne, a common acne subtype, have been inconsistent in the literature. A large-scale community-based study conducted in six cities in China revealed that alcohol consumption was associated with adolescent acne, where 41% of drinkers suffered from acne. 12 However, another study involving 1277 schoolchildren in Lithuania reported an absence of associations between acne and alcohol consumption. ...
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Throughout history, alcohol consumption has been an integral part of human culture. Alcohol consumption, alcoholism in particular, influences the onset and progression of liver diseases, neurological disorders, and multiple types of cancer. However, the role of alcohol consumption in influencing skin diseases has often been overlooked. In this review, we present the progress of research investigating the effects and potential mechanisms of action of alcohol consumption on acne, rosacea, psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, melanoma, and non-melanoma skin cancer.
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Aim To identify the risk factors associated with the occurrence of adult acne in tropical Africa. Materials and methods This was a matched case-control study at the Dermatology-Venerology Department of the Treichville University Hospital from January 5 to September 24, 2021. Cases were patients aged 25 years and older seen in consultation for recent acne. Controls were patients consulting in the same department without acne. We recruited two controls for one case by matching them on sex and age. SAS software version 9.4 was used for statistical analyses. Results We interviewed 1089 patients, of whom 144 were men and 945 were women. The cases consisted of 48 men and 315 women. The acne patients had a professional activity that exposed them to the sun most frequently (73%) and were mostly single (70%). The median age of the patients was 29.64 years, the median body mass index was 24.03 kg/m2. The median number of lesions was 10 (forehead), 15 (right cheek), 15 (left cheek), 10 (chin) and 8 (lower lip). After adjustment, variables associated with acne were sun exposure (OR = 2.19), low seafood consumption (OR = 6.74), family stress (OR = 2.53) and skin depigmentation (OR = 14.17). Conclusion The factors associated with adult acne in tropical environments are numerous. In our study, seafood seems to have protective effects against acne.
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Acne is a common skin disease, affecting millions of subjects worldwide. Several processes and mechanisms have been identified in acne pathogenesis. Among these, it is known that acne or its worsening is also related to metabolic factors and nutritional influences. In this scenario, we carried out a review of the current literature in order to investigate the role of diet in acne disease, offering a wide perspective for possible clinical applications. A total of 55 manuscripts were considered. In particular, the role of the Western diet, glycemic index, glycemic load, dairy products, fats, fatty acids, Mediterranean diet, ketogenic diet, and dietary supplements in acne management has been investigated. On one hand, dairy products, foods with high glycemic load and glycemic index, fatty acids and fats seem to worsen the severity; on the other hand, Mediterranean and ketogenic diet, and oral supplements seem to improve the disease. Despite the conflicting results and conclusions in the scientific literature about the impact of nutrition in acne, mainly related to the severla limitations of the study design, several prospective, controlled, well-designed studies have recently demonstrated the role of some specific nutrition influenced mediators on acne severity.
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A tanulmány célja az akne pszichoszociális jellemzőinek áttekintése. A betegség biomedikális szakirodalma bőséges, kezelésében is inkább ez a szemlélet érhető tetten. Ugyanakkor a kutatási eredmények arra hívják fel a figyelmet, hogy az érintettek élményeinek mélyebb megértése, a betegséggel való együttélés támogatása, az életminőség emelése komplexebb, biopszichoszociális keretben valósulhat meg hatékonyabban. A tanulmány sorra veszi azokat az ismereteket, amelyek jól példázzák, hogy az aknéval élők életminősége milyen mértékben, s milyen területeken érintődik leginkább, s próbálja felvázolni azokat a pszichológiai és pszichofiziológiai folyamatokat, amelyek az interakciók hátterében állhatnak. Kitér a mentális zavarok (depresszió, szorongás) gyakori előfordulására, a testkép negatív érintettségére, a stigma élményére, valamint a lehetséges társas következményekre. Ismerteti a streszszel kapcsolatos eredményeket és fő mechanizmusokat, az életmóddal kapcsolatos, legrelevánsabb kérdéseket, valamint felhívja a figyelmet az egyéni kezelési tervek és pszichológiai intervenciók fontosságára. Az áttekintő tanulmány a komplex, biopszichoszociális kezelés szükségessége melletti érveléssel zárul, s felvázolja azokat a területeket, ahol a pszichológusoknak vagy más, mentális egészséggel (is) foglalkozó szakembereknek kiemelt feladatai lehetnek.
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Indoor and outdoor airborne pollutants modify our environment and represent a growing threat to human health worldwide. Airborne pollution effects on respiratory and cardiac health and diseases have been well established, but its impact on skin remains poorly described. Nonetheless, the skin is one of the main targets of pollutants, which reach the superficial and deeper skin layers by transcutaneous and systemic routes. In this review, we report the outcomes of basic and clinical research studies monitoring pollutant levels in human tissues including the skin and hair. We present a current understanding of the biochemical and biophysical effects of pollutants on skin metabolism, inflammatory processes and oxidative stress, with a focus on polyaromatic hydrocarbons and ground‐level ozone that are widespread outdoor pollutants whose effects are mostly studied. We reviewed the literature to report the clinical effects of pollutants on skin health and skin aging and their impact on some chronic inflammatory skin diseases. We also discuss the potential interactions of airborne pollutants with either ultraviolet radiation, or human skin microbiota and their specific impact on skin health. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Background: Acne vulgaris is one of the main reasons for dermatological consultations. Severity and response to treatment may be impacted by various external factors or exposome. Aim: to assess the impact of environmental factors on acne and to provide a comprehensive overview of the acne exposome. Methods: two consensus meetings of five European dermatologists and a comprehensive literature search on exposome factors triggering acne served as a basis for this review. Results: acne exposome was defined as the sum of all environmental factors influencing the occurrence, duration and severity of acne. Exposome factors impact on the response and the frequency of relapse to treatments by interacting with the skin barrier, sebaceous gland, innate immunity and cutaneous microbiota. They may be classified in the following six main categories: nutrition, psychological and lifestyle factors, occupational factors including cosmetics, as well as pollutants, medication and climatic factors. Moreover, practical considerations for the dermatologist's clinical practice are proposed. Conclusion: Exposome factors including nutrition, medication, occupational factors, pollutants, climatic factors, and psychosocial and lifestyle factors may impact on the course and severity of acne and on treatment efficacy. Identifying and reducing the impact of exposome is important for an adequate acne disease management. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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In recent years, the critical role that inflammation may play in the development and progression of acne has become increasingly recognized. The prevalence of acne is similar between Asian and Caucasian women, but Asian women have a higher prevalence of inflammatory acne. They also report their symptoms exacerbate during periods of high air pollution. The objective of this study was to review the current evidence that links air pollution to worsening of acne symptoms. Firstly, a group of five Asian and three European scientists with expertise in Dermatology reviewed the current literature and described current acne treatment practices in their countries. During this activity, they identified the need for further epidemiological and clinical research. Secondly, additional studies ensued which provided evidence that acne symptoms might exacerbate in regions of high ambient air pollution. Based on these findings, the authors suggest that people with acne should protect the natural barrier function of their skin with emollients and ultraviolet (UV)A/UVB protection.
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Donnarumma et al. report results from a retrospective survey about nutrition habits and the relationship to acne in 92 subjects from the region of Naples, Italy to investigate allegations made in our publication “Acne and nutrition: hypotheses, myths and facts”.(1, 2). The authors used a questionnaire developed for assessing diet and obesity indexes among high risk subjects.(3) The questionnaire was used in patients with mild‐to moderate acne and in an undefined control group. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Several cosmetic ingredients have been shown to be comedogenic using the rabbit ear assay (1,2). On the basis of the animal assay and short-term human clinical studies, the development of comedones has been attributed to prolonged use of cosmetics (1,2). Although there are limitations of the rabbit model in the application of test results to humans (1-4), much information on the comedogenicity of topically applied substances has been based on the rabbit ear assay because it permits rapid screening of many possible offenders. The present chapter is concerned with this theme and reports our finding on the activity of certain raw materials previously investigated.
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Background Personal protective equipment (PPE) is defined as equipment that protects the wearer’s body against health/safety risks at work. Gloves are a cause of many dermatoses. Non‐glove PPE constitutes a wide array of garments. Dermatoses resulting from these have hitherto not been documented. Objectives To determine the incidence and types of non‐glove PPE‐related dermatoses. Patients/Methods We analysed incident case reports from dermatologists of non‐glove PPE‐related dermatoses to a UK‐wide surveillance scheme (EPIDERM) between 1993‐2013. Results The dermatoses associated with non‐glove PPE accounted for 0.84% of all occupational skin disease. Of all PPE‐related cases 194 (9.2%) were due to non‐glove PPE. Of these, 132 (68.0%) occurred in men and the median age (both male and female) was 42 years (range 18‐82 years). The non‐glove PPE‐related dermatoses were diagnosed as: allergic contact dermatitis (47.4%), irritant contact dermatitis (16.0%), friction (11.3%), occlusion (11.3%), unspecified dermatitis (8.8%), acne (3.1%), infections (1.5) and contact urticaria (0.52%). The industries most associated with non‐glove PPE‐related dermatoses were manufacturing (18.6%), public administration and defence (17.0%), health and social work (15.5%) and transport, storage and communication (9.8%). Conclusions Clothing, footwear, facemasks and headgear need to be recognised as causes of dermatoses occurring at body sites less commonly associated with occupational skin disease.
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Background: Effect of seasonality on acne and acne flare has varied interpretations depending on the geographical area of study. In tropical areas, factors like high temperature and humidity may cause acne flares. Aims: To assess the seasonal variation of acne in patients and to correlate it with the monthly temperature and humidity over a period of 1 year. Methods: A cross‐sectional study of acne patients was conducted for one year. The patient's acne was graded. Patients were specifically questioned about aggravation, improvement, or no change in their acne with respect to the seasons. The mean temperature and humidity of each month in Delhi were compared with grade of acne. This variation in acne was correlated with the temperature and humidity. A P‐value < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Results: Out of 171 patients, 82 (47.95%) patients reported seasonal variation in their acne. Among them, 69 patients (40.4%) reported aggravation in summer. Eleven (6.42%) and 2 (1.16%) patients reported aggravation in winter and rainy season, respectively. The aggravation in summer as compared to rainy and winter season was statistically significant. The mean temperature and mean humidity significantly varied with seasonal aggravation of acne. Conclusions: Both temperature and humidity have a contributing role in pathogenesis of acne and are causes of acne flare. In our study, aggravation of acne was more in summer and rainy season.
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Acne is an inflammatory and multifactorial skin disease. Different external and internal factors including air pollution, aggressive skin care products, medication, mechanical, hormonal, family factors and, more recently, lifestyle and stress, have been suggested as having an impact on acne. Moreover, for many years nutrition was believed to cause or worsen acne. Over the last decades, however, it has become a dermatological doctrine that there is no direct association between diet and acne. Even if recent research has allowed to identify certain nutritional elements and behaviour that may impact on acne, including the excessive intake of dairy products and hyperglycaemic food, modern lifestyle nutrition, obesity and eating disorders, knowledge about the role of nutrition in the physiopathology of acne still remains sparse and hypotheses and myths continue to dominate the debate. Thus, further clinical and translational research is necessary to investigate and confirm the association between nutrition and acne. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Acne is a chronic inflammatory disease of the pilosebaceous unit. Its pathophysiology includes hyperseborrhoea, abnormal follicular keratinization and Propionibacterium acnes proliferation in the pilosebaceous unit. Recent research has shed some new light on the involvement of the sebaceous gland, as well as on the pro-inflammatory activity of the cutaneous microbiome. During puberty, alteration of the sebaceous lipid profile, called dysseborrhoea, stress, irritation, cosmetics and potential dietary factors lead to inflammation and formation of different types of acne lesions. Dysbiosis, the process leading to a disturbed skin barrier and disequilibrium of the cutaneous microbiome, resulting in the proliferation of P. acnes strains, is another important process that triggers acne. P. acnes activates the innate immunity via the expression of protease activated receptors (PARs), tumour necrosis factor (TNF) α and toll-like receptors (TLRs), and the production of interferon (INF) γ, interleukins (IL-8, IL12, IL-1), TNF, and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) by keratinocytes, resulting in the hyperkeratinization of the pilosebaceous unit. Rebalancing the natural microbiome of the skin by restoring the natural skin barrier, limiting the proliferation of P. acnes on the skin by using topical antibacterials which do not cause resistance and regulating quantity and quality of sebum will be the main acne treatment challenges in the future. The aim of this article to provide an update on the involvement of the sebaceous gland, the innate immunity and the cutaneous microbiome, how all of these factors promote acne and to illustrate their links with current and future treatments.
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Background: Although acne vulgaris is a common skin disorder, limited epidemiological data exist specifically for European populations. Objective: To determine the prevalence of self-reported acne among young people in Europe and evaluate the effect of lifestyle on acne. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional population-based online survey in representative samples of individuals aged 15-24 years in Belgium, Czech and Slovak Republics, France, Italy, Poland and Spain (n=10,521), identified by a quota sampling method based on age, geographic location, and socio-professional category. Results: The overall adjusted prevalence of self-reported acne was 57.8% (95% confidence interval 56.9% to 58.7%). The rates per country ranged from 42.2% in Poland to 73.5% in the Czech and Slovak Republics. The prevalence of acne was highest at age 15-17 years and decreased with age. On multivariate analysis, a history of maternal or paternal acne was associated with an increased probability of having acne (odds ratio 3.077, 95% CI 2.743 to 3.451, and 2.700, 95% CI 2.391 to 3.049, respectively; both p<0.0001), as was the consumption of chocolate (OR 1.276, 95% CI 1.094 to 1.488, for quartile 4 versus quartile 1). Increasing age (OR 0.728, 95% CI 0.639 to 0.830 for age 21-24 years versus 15-17 years) and smoking tobacco (OR 0.705, 95% CI 0.616 to 0.807) were associated with a reduced probability of acne. Conclusion: The overall prevalence of self-reported acne was high in adolescents/young adults in the European countries investigated. Heredity was the main risk factor for developing acne. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.