Influence of Body Mass Index and Diet on the Pathophysiology of Acne Vulgaris

Abstract

Acne vulgaris is a multifactorial disease that mainly affects adolescents and young adults and can present either with inflammatory or non-inflammatory lesions. This disease is responsible for significant morbidity, both physical and psychological. The importance of both genetic and environmental factors in its pathogenesis has been scientifically proven, and associations with the western diet, excessive body mass index and insulin resistance have been described. In this article we review the current literature on acne vulgaris, focusing on the pathophysiology and influence of these factors on its disregulation. A better knowledge of the physiopathology of acne and a critical evaluation of the influence of diet, body mass index and disruption of the endocrine system will allow a more scientific intervention on exogenous factors that contribute to the initiation and worsening of this interesting and frequent pathology.