Does certain food contribute to worsening acne condition?

Multiple factors contribute to acne problem. Acne is not just caused by hormone imbalance. (Think about adolescent teens or those reaching menopause that results in the uncontrolled secretion of sebaceous glands leading to clogged skin pores.)

New research studies have shown that accumulation of high Omega 6 fatty acid compounds may cause skin inflammation and this indirectly leads to worsening acne problem.

The key enzymes such 5-LOX or COX in the body are known to turn the omega 6 fatty acid into certain group of potent inflammatory compound (leukotrienes) and this contributes to skin inflammation. Thus the presence of the 5-LOX enzyme together with excessive omega 6 is a recipe for worsening acne condition.

Some people are prone to acne because of the increase key enzymes in their body. As a matter of fact, scientists now believe such findings explain why acne problem could be hereditary in nature due to the fact that increase of such enzymes in the body can be hereditary in nature and this results in higher probability and frequency of skin inflammation.

One solution to solving acne problem is by preventing omega 6 fatty compound acids from interacting with such key enzymes to produce inflammatory compounds. Some topical acne medications containing salicylic acid is quite effective in treating acne by inhibiting and blocking COX enzymes from interacting with omega 6 fatty compounds to generate inflammatory compounds.

Thus based on the above facts, you should restrict or limit consumption of Omega 6 rich content food such as margarine, mayonnaise, salad dressings and processed food. Many of these types of foods are prepared using vegetable oil, corn oil, soybean oil and cottonseed oil all of which laden with high omega 6 fatty acid.

The key to an acne free and good complexion is by understanding what’s triggering acne and making necessary lifestyle changes to minimize skin inflammation. A holistic treatment and prevention measure would help to keep acne at bay.

In summary does certain food contributes to worsening acne condition? The answer is obvious. Anyone who tells you food has got nothing to do with acne does not understand the complex interaction between our body enzymes and external environment that triggers acne.