Recent studies in Norway indicate that adolescent girls with overweight or obese were significantly more likely to experience facial acne than women with normal weight. In this research, these young women were asked to fill out a questionnaire that focuses on the history of the appearance of acne on their faces and body weight.
“This is possible in girls, but not with boys. Androgen excess caused by obesity have a greater additive effect on acne,” said Dr. Robert Kirsner, professor and vice chair of the department of dermatology and skin surgery University of Miami Miller School of Medicine.
“There is a possibility that the psychological effects caused by being overweight in girls more than boys, thus leading to increased stress hormones in girls. As a result, acne will come,” he added.
This research led by Dr. Jon Anders Halvorsen of Oslo University Hospital Department of Dermatology. Published on January 16, 2012 in the Archives of Dermatology. Researchers found that about 10-20 percent of adolescents with mild to severe acne problems experienced many serious psychological problems due to lack confidence and are difficult to socialize.
To investigate whether there is a relationship between obesity and acne, researchers conducted a survey involving about 3,600 Norwegian adolescents aged 18-19 years. The questionnaires were distributed, participants were asked to answer several questions related to alcohol consumption, smoking habits, history of mental stress and dietary habits – especially regarding the consumption of sugar, candy, chocolate, raw vegetables, fatty fish and chips.
The results show that there are about 10 percent of adolescent girls and more than 15 percent of teenage boys are overweight. Overall, 13 percent of all teen girls have acne. But when looking only in girls who are overweight or obese, this figure rose to nearly 19 percent.
Halvorsen and colleagues concluded that excess weight has been associated with acne risk in adolescent girls but not boys. It should be noted, though studies show an association between excess weight gain and acne, but this does not prove causation.
Meanwhile, Dr. Joel Gelfand, medical director of the department of dermatology clinical studies unit, University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, said further research is needed to see the relationship between obesity and the risk of acne.
“There are not many studies out there that understand what the risk factors for developing acne. Now we are talking about diseases that may have been experienced by all people, and have an adverse affect on the quality of life. So the most important thing now is how we looking for ways to prevent, “he said.
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