Exacerbation of facial acne vulgaris after consuming pure chocolate

Abstract

To the Editor: The effect of diet, specifically chocolate, on acne exacerbation is controversial. 1 Wolf R. Matz H. Orion E. Acne and diet. Clin Dermatol. 2004; 22: 387-393 Abstract Full Text Full Text PDF PubMed Scopus (41) Google Scholar Two studies suggested that chocolate does not cause an exacerbation of acne. Fulton et al 2 Fulton Jr., J.E. Plewig G. Kligman A.M. Effect of chocolate on acne vulgaris. J Am Acad Dermatol. 1969; 210: 2071-2074 Google Scholar had subjects consume a chocolate bar containing 10 times the amount of cocoa as a normal chocolate candy bar, or a placebo bar without chocolate liquor or cocoa butter. No significant difference in lesion count, sebum production, or sebum composition between groups existed. 2 Fulton Jr., J.E. Plewig G. Kligman A.M. Effect of chocolate on acne vulgaris. J Am Acad Dermatol. 1969; 210: 2071-2074 Google Scholar Similarly, Anderson 3 Anderson P.C. Foods as the cause of acne. Am Fam Physician. 1971; 3: 102-103 PubMed Google Scholar had subjects consume six servings of 39-gram chocolate bars for 7 days. A limited relationship between chocolate and acne was determined; only one-third of subjects developed new lesions. 3 Anderson P.C. Foods as the cause of acne. Am Fam Physician. 1971; 3: 102-103 PubMed Google Scholar