Drugs and other substances aggravating acne vulgaris

Abstract

Introduction and Purpose This review explores several factors exacerbating acne, including the supplementation of vitamins B6 and B12, the impact of red ginseng oil, dairy and whey product consumption, iodine association, anabolic-androgenic steroids, alcohol abuse, and the influence of progestin contraceptives. Material and methods This review is based on articles from the PubMed database, covering the years 2018-2023, using keywords: acne vulgaris, acne vulgaris aggravation, substances aggravating acne vulgaris. Results High doses of B6 and B12 have been reported to worsen acne, potentially linked to their prolonged use. Red ginseng oil, believed to have numerous health benefits, may exacerbate acne symptoms by increasing inflammatory biomarkers. Dairy consumption, specifically casein and whey proteins, is associated with increased insulin-like growth factor 1, contributing to acne aggravation. Iodine has been extensively linked to acneiform eruptions, and its correlation with dairy consumption is hypothesized. Anabolic-androgenic steroids, found in muscle-building supplements, elevate sebum production and may cause acne fulminans. Alcohol abuse further intensifies acne symptoms by impacting testosterone levels, promoting proinflammatory cytokine production, and altering the skin microbiome. Progestin contraceptives, particularly levonorgestrel and etonorgestrel, exhibit androgenic properties that may increase sebum production and potentially aggravate acne. Conclusions Understanding and identifying these exacerbating factors are crucial for healthcare providers to enhance anti-acne therapy outcomes, emphasizing the importance of not only treating but also preventing the escalation of acne manifestations in patients.

Keywords

• acne vulgaris
• acne