Acne vulgaris, mental health and omega-3 fatty acids: a report of cases.
Acne vulgaris is a common skin condition, one that is associated with significant psychological disability. The psychological impairments in acne include higher rates of depression, anxiety, anger and suicidal thoughts. Despite a paucity of clinical research, patients with skin conditions and/or mental health disorders are frequent consumers of dietary supplements. An overlap may exist between nutrients that potentially have both anti-acne and mood regulating properties; examples include omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil, chromium, zinc and selenium. Here we report on five cases of acne treated with eicosapentaenoic acid and antioxidant nutrients. Self-administration of these nutrients may have improved inflammatory acne lesions and global aspects of well-being; the observations suggest a need for controlled trials.
Lasky Skin Clinic, 153 Lasky Drive, Suite 1, Beverly Hills, CA 90212, USA. markgrubinmd@aol.com
Mark G
MG
Rubin
Katherine
K
Kim
Alan C
AC
Logan
D000152:Acne Vulgaris / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000523:psychology; D000293:Adolescent; D000975:Antioxidants / Q000627:therapeutic use; D019587:Dietary Supplements; D015118:Eicosapentaenoic Acid / Q000627:therapeutic use; D015525:Fatty Acids, Omega-3 / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008603:Mental Health; D012646:Self Administration; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D055815:Young Adult
D000975:Antioxidants; D015525:Fatty Acids, Omega-3; D015118:Eicosapentaenoic Acid