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.