The association between refined carbohydrate intake, acne severity, and quality of life among IIUM students: a cross-sectional study

Background: Acne vulgaris is a common skin condition affecting adolescents and young adults. Recent interest has grown around the role of diet, particularly refined carbohydrates in acne development. However, evidence remains mixed, and the psychosocial burden of acne is often underexplored. This study aimed to determine the pattern of refined carbohydrate intake among IIUM students, examine its association with acne severity, and assess the relationship between acne severity and quality of life. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among IIUM undergraduate students using a self-administered questionnaire that assessed dietary intake, acne severity, and quality of life. Refined carbohydrate intake was analysed through food frequency data. Correlations between refined carbohydrate intake, acne severity, and quality of life were assessed using Pearson’s correlation coefficient. Results: The mean daily intake of refined carbohydrates among participants was high (292.45 ± 220.35 g/day), with sugar and rice being the main contributors. However, no significant association was found between refined carbohydrate intake and acne severity. In contrast, acne severity showed a significant negative correlation with all domains of quality of life, including self-perception (r = -0.456), role-emotional (r = -0.454), role-social (r -0.369), and acne symptoms (r = -0.602) with p < 0.001. Conclusion: While no link was found between refined carbohydrate intake and acne severity, the results highlight the strong impact of acne on quality of life among university students. This suggests a need for more holistic acne management strategies that address both physical and psychological aspects.