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Does the plasma level of vitamins A and E affect acne condition?
Z El-Akawi1, N Abdel-Latif, K Abdul-Razzak
1Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Jordan University of Science and Technology, School of Medicine, Irbid, Jordan. zakawi@just.edu.jo
Clinical and Experimental Dermatology
|May 10, 2006
Summary
Low levels of vitamin A and vitamin E are linked to acne development and severity. Supplementation may improve acne conditions, highlighting the role of these antioxidants in skin health.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology and Nutritional Science
Background:
- Vitamins A and E are essential lipid-soluble antioxidants.
- Deficiency can lead to significant health issues.
- Previous studies suggest vitamin A and E administration may improve acne.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the correlation between plasma vitamin A and E levels and acne.
- To assess if vitamin levels differ between acne patients and healthy individuals.
Main Methods:
- Plasma concentrations of vitamins A and E were measured using high-performance liquid chromatography.
- 100 newly diagnosed, untreated acne patients were compared to 100 age-matched healthy controls.
- Acne severity was assessed using the Global Acne Grading System.
Main Results:
- Acne patients exhibited significantly lower plasma vitamin A (336.5 vs. 418.1 mug/L) and vitamin E (5.4 vs. 5.9 mg/L) levels compared to controls.
- Lower vitamin A and E levels strongly correlated with increased acne severity.
- Severe acne cases showed significantly lower vitamin levels than mild cases and controls.
Conclusions:
- Low plasma levels of vitamins A and E play a role in acne pathogenesis.
- These vitamin deficiencies may contribute to the worsening of acne conditions.
- Findings suggest a link between antioxidant status and acne.
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