Acne is a very common skin disease that affects many adolescents but also some adults. The inflammatory lesions it causes can have a strong impact on daily life. In a recent German study, researchers found that an omega-3 supplement as part of a Mediterranean diet could help reduce acne.
Who has never dreamed of getting rid of their acne ? Characterized by pimple outbreaks that occur in 95% of people with acne on the face, as explained by Health Insurance, this skin disease can have a significant impact on quality of life and self-esteem. In order to limit its appearance, there are good habits to adopt on a daily basis such as: avoiding touching your face and handling acne pimples, protecting yourself from the sun, avoiding tobacco and stressbut also avoid consuming foods that are too sweet.
In a recent study published in review Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, Scientists have highlighted the potential ability of Omega 3 to reduce the severity of acne. As a reminder, omega-3 fatty acids, which are described by the National Agency for Food Safety (ANSES) as “necessary for the development and proper functioning of the human body” are not produced by the body, and must therefore be provided through food.
Does following the Mediterranean diet along with taking omega-3 supplements really help reduce acne?
To conduct their study, the scientists asked 60 patients with mild to moderate acne to follow a Mediterranean diet including an additional intake of omega-3 fatty acids. Patients accepted into the study had not received any acne treatment 4 weeks before, but also throughout the study. Similarly, they were only allowed to apply a cleansing lotion and a moisturizer to their skin. The researchers analyzed blood samples from the volunteers, the appearance of their skin and the clinical severity of their acne as well as their HS-omega-3 index which accurately reflects the level of omega-3.
After analyzing the results, the team of researchers found that following the Mediterranean diet and taking omega-3 fatty acid supplements led to a significant reduction in inflammatory and non-inflammatory skin lesions due to acne, as well as an improvement in the quality of life of the patients. However, they also found that 98.3% of the participants had omega-3 fatty acid deficiencies at the start of the study. According to Anne Guertler, lead author of the study, who spoke in a statement, the study showed that “Adopting new diets should not be seen as opposition to prescription drugs, but rather as a valuable addition to any modern acne treatment plan.”
Sources :
- Exploring the potential of omega-3 fatty acids in acne patients: A prospective intervention study – Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology – 10 juillet 2024
- Omega-3 fatty acid intake may lessen acne severity – Medical Xpress
- Definition, symptoms and progression of acne – Health insurance
- Omega 3 fatty acids – Anses
