Dr. Sonal Choudhary, a Dermatopathologist and Dermatologist, and Director of the Integrative Dermatology and Skincare Clinic at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, and Noel Prevost, MPAS, PA-C, a Dermatology Physician Assistant at UPMC Falk Dermatology-Oakland, discuss how dairy and sugar can contribute to acne flares.

Key Takeaways:

Skim milk and Greek yogurt may contain high levels of insulin-like growth factor, which can stimulate oil production

Sugars can also aggravate acneAcne may improve even without systemic or topical therapy when patients cut out or limit dairy products in their diet

People with polycystic ovary syndrome may be more sensitive to dairy and sugar – possibly due to high levels of insulin-like growth factor.

Taking a dietary history may help identify factors that are contributing to acne flares

Sonal Choudhary, MD, a Dermatopathologist, Dermatologist, and Director of the Integrative Dermatology and Skincare Clinic and Physician Assistant Noel Prevost discuss the role that diet may play in athletes with acne, including an evidence-based discussion on protein powders. They also discuss the use of anabolic steroids and their effects on athlete’s skin.

Key Takeaways:

• Worsening of acne lesions may occur in athletes who consume whey protein powder.

• Plant or paleo-based protein powders may be a skin-friendly option for some athletes with acne.

• Patients can consider sweetening plant-based protein powders with stevia or monk fruit.

• Anabolic steroids can increase risk for acne, including acne fulminans.

• It’s important to discuss anabolic steroid use with athletes who are experiencing acne.

In the fourth and final installment of this four-part episode, Dr. Sonal Choudhary, a Dermatopathologist, Dermatologist, and Director of the Integrative Dermatology and Skincare Clinic at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and Jazmyn Phillips, a Dermatology Physician Assistant at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, review some of the nutritional supplements that have shown to be beneficial for people with hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), including vitamin D and zinc. They also discuss the role that stress and trauma play.

Key Takeaways:

Always check Vitamin D levels in HS patients and supplement accordingly.

There is some evidence supporting adjunct supplementation of zinc in HSVitamin B12 and turmeric may also confer potential benefits for individuals with HS.

Studies have shown that individuals with HS are more likely to report experiencing a higher number of traumatic events throughout their lives, including childhood traumas. Consider trauma-informed therapies in such patients.