Diet and Acne Vulgaris: A Narrative Review of Current Evidence on Glycemic Load, Dairy Intake and Anti-inflammatory Dietary Patterns
Year: 2026
Type: review
Abstract: Background: Acne vulgaris is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the pilosebaceous unit and one of the most common dermatological conditions worldwide, particularly among adolescents and young adults. Its pathogenesis is multifactorial and involves increased sebum production, follicular hyperkeratinization, colonization by Cutibacterium acnes, and inflammatory processes within the pilosebaceous unit. In recent years, growing attention has been directed toward the potential role of diet in acne development and severity. Aim: This narrative review summarizes current evidence on the relationship between diet and acne vulgaris, with particular focus on dietary glycemic load, dairy consumption, Western dietary patterns, and potentially protective nutritional strategies, including the Mediterranean diet, omega-3 fatty acids, and probiotics. Material and methods: A narrative review of the literature was conducted based on publications identified through searches of PubMed and Google Scholar. Observational studies, randomized controlled trials, systematic reviews, and mechanistic studies evaluating the relationship between dietary factors and acne vulgaris were included. Owing to substantial heterogeneity in study designs, dietary assessment methods, and outcome measures, the findings were synthesized qualitatively. Results: Current evidence consistently demonstrates an association between high-glycemic dietary patterns and increased acne severity, while low-glycemic-load diets have shown beneficial effects in several interventional studies. Dairy intake, particularly milk and whey protein supplementation, has also been associated with acne in a number of epidemiological studies, although the overall evidence remains inconsistent. Western dietary patterns rich in processed foods may contribute to acne pathogenesis, whereas adherence to a Mediterranean-style diet and increased intake of omega-3 fatty acids may exert anti-inflammatory effects. Emerging evidence also suggests a potential role for probiotics through modulation of the gut–skin axis. Conclusions: Diet appears to be a potential modifying factor rather than a primary cause of acne vulgaris. The strongest evidence supports an association between high-glycemic dietary patterns and acne severity, whereas evidence regarding dairy consumption is less consistent. Dietary counseling may be considered an individualized adjunct to standard dermatological therapy but should not replace evidence-based medical treatment.
Institution: Uniwersytecki Szpital Kliniczny w Opolu
Language: English
Subfield: Dermatology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7220399646