THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN NUTRITIONAL CONSUMPTION AND ACNE SEVERITY IN YOUNG ADULTS

THE PURPOSE of this study was to examine the relationship between the severity of acne vulgaris and dietary habits among young Bulgarian women. METHODS: Sixty women with an average age of 26.8 ± 7.3 years, all diagnosed with acne, participated in the study. The severity of acne was determined using the Global Acne Grading System (GAGS). Dietary intake was assessed through the Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) method. RESULTS: The participants with severe and very severe acne reported significantly higher daily consumption of milk (p=0.04) and sweets (p=0.02). They also had a higher frequency of consuming foods rich in saturated fats and omega-6 fatty acids, such as pastries, sausages, red meat, and sunflower oil. Additionally, the study found that the inadequate intake of whole grain bread, vegetables, fruits, legumes, and nuts among the participants contributed to deficiencies in vitamins and antioxidants, which may further exacerbate acne. CONCLUSION: Nutrition affects acne severity and can be incorporated into personalized prevention and treatment strategies.