Journal Article Summary
The article explores the concept of the "exposome," which refers to the totality of environmental factors that an individual is exposed to throughout their life, and how these factors influence the development and severity of acne vulgaris. Acne is a common skin condition that leads many people to seek dermatological care. Understanding the exposome is important because it can help identify external factors that may worsen acne and affect treatment outcomes, thereby improving management strategies for patients suffering from this condition.
To investigate this, the authors conducted two consensus meetings with European dermatologists and performed a thorough literature review on various environmental factors linked to acne. They defined the acne exposome as encompassing six main categories: nutrition, psychological and lifestyle factors, occupational influences (including cosmetics), pollutants, medications, and climatic conditions. The findings suggest that these factors can significantly impact the severity of acne and the effectiveness of treatments by interacting with the skin's barrier, sebaceous glands, immune response, and skin microbiota.
However, the study has limitations, including the need for more extensive research to confirm the findings and the complexity of interactions between different exposome factors. Patients should discuss these factors with their healthcare providers, particularly if they experience moderate to severe acne, as identifying and minimizing negative exposures may enhance treatment success. It is also essential for patients to be aware of how their lifestyle choices, such as diet and stress management, can influence their skin health and acne management.
Medical Safety Note
This journal article summary is provided for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
Article Cited
- Dréno B., Bettoli V., Araviiskaia E., Sanchez Viera M., Bouloc A.. The influence of exposome on acne. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology 2018. DOI: 10.1111/jdv.14820. PMID: 29377341. PMCID: PMC5947266.
Featured Pill Pals Product
OPill (O-Pill) Norgestrel Tablets 0.075 mg Daily Oral Contraceptive (Birth Control) --- Perrigo --- Over The Counter
OPill (O-Pill) Norgestrel Tablets 0.075 mg Daily Oral Contraceptive (Birth Control) — Perrigo — Over The Counter is available through Pill Pals Pharmacy with cash-pay pharmacy pricing and free shipping where available. This is an Over The Counter Product, so no prescription is required.However, your prescriber can still write for it as a prescription, if desired.
