Dietary changes alone won’t stop acne in its tracks. However, your diet can make a significant impact on acne, according to dermatologist Nicholas Perricone in his book “The Acne Prescription.” Resveratrol is one nutrient that scientists are taking a closer look at for its role in acne. Although researchers claim that more studies are needed to prove its benefit, resveratrol is found in many foods that are nutritious and skin-friendly. Speak to your dermatologist about its benefits for acne and other treatments that may be effective.
More About Resveratrol
Resveratrol is a fat-soluble compound belonging to the class of polyphenols known as stilbenes. Polyphenols are antioxidants, which help fight free radicals, or unstable oxygen molecules that damage cells and increase inflammation that contributes to acne. In some plants, resveratrol is a by-product of stress, fungal infection, ultraviolet radiation or injury, according to the Linus Pauling Institute.
Research
In a small study published in the “American Journal of Clinical Dermatology” in April 2011, a team of Italian researchers investigated the effects of a resveratrol gel on acne. Twenty patients put the gel on the right side of their face and a plain hydrogel on the left side for 60 days. The researchers found that showed a 53.75 percent average reduction in the Global Acne Grading System score, a measure of acne activity such as number and type of lesions. The researchers found that the reseveratrol gel yielded clinically relevant and statistically significant decreases in acne lesions. However, they also add that larger studies are necessary.
Good Dietary Sources
Although the acne patients in the study used resveratrol topically to treat acne, adding it to your diet may also be beneficial. As an antioxidant, resveratrol helps to lower inflammation, and any food that has anti-inflammatory abilities is beneficial for acne, according to Perricone. Red wine is one of the best-known dietary sources of resveratrol. It is a better source than white or rosé wine because a longer fermentation time increases resveratrol content. One glass of global red wine contains between 1.98 and 7.13 mg of resveratrol per liter, notes the Linus Pauling Institute. On the other hand, white wine has only 0.05 to 1.80 mg per liter. You can get resveratrol from other foods such as grapes, grape juice, cranberries, peanuts, blueberries, cranberries and bilberries.
Considerations
Taking resveratrol alone won’t clear up your pimples. A proper acne treatment program tackles all the causes and factors that can contribute to acne. Topical and oral remedies can help to treat causes such as skin oiliness, hormonal disruptions, and the buildup of dead skin cells. Lifestyle changes can address aggravating factors besides diet such as stress or oily hair. Discuss all your options with your dermatologist for the best treatment results.
References
- “The Acne Prescription”; Nicholas Perricone, M.D.; 2003
- “Prescription for Drug Alternatives”; Mark Stengler, N.D.; 2008
- Linus Pauling Institute: Resveratrol
- American Journal of Clinical Dermatology: Resveratrol Pilot Study; G. Fabbrocini; April 2011
Member Comments