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Dark chocolate exacerbates acne.
Saivaree Vongraviopap1, Pravit Asawanonda1
1Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.
International Journal of Dermatology
|December 30, 2015
Summary
Recent studies reevaluated the effects of chocolate on acne. This study found that consuming 99% dark chocolate daily can worsen acne in acne-prone males, with significant changes observed in just two weeks.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Nutrition Science
Background:
- Historically, chocolate's role in acne exacerbation was debated, with many believing it had no impact.
- Recent research has prompted a reevaluation of this long-held belief.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if daily consumption of 99% dark chocolate worsens acne in acne-prone male subjects.
- To quantify the impact of regular dark chocolate intake on acne severity.
Main Methods:
- Twenty-five acne-prone males consumed 25g of 99% dark chocolate daily for four weeks.
- Acne severity was assessed weekly using Leeds revised acne scores and lesion counts.
- Food frequency questionnaires and daily activity logs were maintained.
Main Results:
- Statistically significant increases in acne scores were observed as early as two weeks.
- Significant increases in comedones and inflammatory papules were noted within two weeks.
- These significant changes persisted through the four-week study period compared to baseline.
Conclusions:
- Daily consumption of 99% dark chocolate, even in moderate amounts, can exacerbate acne in males with acne-prone skin.
- The study provides evidence that dark chocolate intake can negatively impact acne severity.
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