The role of nutrition in acne vulgaris and hidradenitis suppurativa

Abstract

Acne vulgaris and hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) are chronic inflammatory, multifactorial skin disorders that often develop in adolescence and young adulthood. Both acne vulgaris and HS can cause significant morbidity and psychologic distress, with a negative effect on the quality of life. The relationship among diet, acne, and HS remains somewhat controversial; however, there is increasing evidence that high-glycemic diets and consumption of milk and dairy products promote acne. Studies suggest that weight loss through dietary interventions or bariatric surgery and brewer's yeast exclusion diets have the potential to ameliorate the signs of HS. We review the role of diet in the pathogenesis, prevention, and treatment of HS and acne vulgaris.