Mediterranean Diet, Omega-3s Benefit Acne

A recent study has highlighted the effectiveness of a Mediterranean diet enriched with eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in reducing skin lesions and enhancing the quality of life for individuals suffering from acne. This research, spearheaded by Anne Guertler, M.D., from Ludwig Maximilian University in Munich, was published on July 10, 2024, in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology.

The study involved 60 participants who were not on any prescription medication. These participants were divided into two groups: 23 individuals with acne comedonica (AC) and 37 individuals with acne papulopustulosa (AP). Each participant followed a Mediterranean diet supplemented with omega-3 fatty acids. The primary aim was to assess the clinical impact of increased EPA/DHA levels on acne.

To gauge the levels of these fatty acids, the researchers used the HS-omega-3 index, which measures the percentage of EPA and DHA in the total identified fatty acids in erythrocytes. The target range for the index was set between 8 to 11 percent, with levels below 8 percent considered a deficit and levels below 4 percent considered a severe deficit. Blood levels were monitored across four visits.

At the outset, 98.3 percent of the participants had an EPA/DHA deficit, with the mean HS-omega-3 index starting at 4.9 percent. However, by the fourth visit, this average had increased to 8.3 percent. Notably, the indices for individuals with AC were significantly higher compared to those with AP by the end of the study. Both inflammatory and non-inflammatory lesions showed marked improvements.

Despite the positive trends, four participants reported a worsened appearance of their skin. Nevertheless, the overall quality of life for most participants, particularly those with AP, showed significant improvement. The study also identified dietary triggers more clearly than beneficial foods, noting a reduction in the intake of cow's milk and dairy products. Compliance with the dietary regimen was high, and no adverse events were reported.

Dr. Guertler emphasized that lifestyle changes, including dietary recommendations, should complement rather than replace prescription medications in acne treatment plans. She stressed the value of integrating such interventions into modern acne management strategies.

The analysis of the HS-omega-3 index was conducted by Omegametrix® GmbH at no cost. Additionally, omega-3 supplements were provided free of charge by Queisser Pharma GmbH & Co. KG.