Vitamin D modulates immune functions through effects on the innate and acquired immune systems and plays a role in various dermatological diseases. In a recently published study, significantly decreased vitamin D levels were detected in patients with acne compared to a healthy control group.
Acne is often accompanied by a high psychological burden for those affected. Vitamin D deficiency is widespread and has a negative impact on the health of those affected. Vitamin D plays a role in various skin diseases, although there are still many unanswered questions regarding acne. To investigate whether vitamin D levels differ between acne-affected and skin-healthy individuals, serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels of 68 acne-affected individuals were compared with a matched control group of 50 healthy individuals. Exclusion criteria included vitamin D supplementation prior to the study. Patients with acne vulgaris were found to have lower serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels than healthy controls, and this difference was significant (p=0.003). These effects occurred independently of age and sex. One conclusion of the authors is that acne patients should be screened for vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D modulates immune functions through effects on the innate and acquired immune system and plays a role in various dermatological diseases such as psoriasis or atopic dermatitis. Vitamin D deficiency is generally widespread, with an increased risk of undersupply, particularly during the winter months, which is why supplementation is often recommended during this time. The body’s own vitamin D formation in the skin by sunlight (UVB rays) depends on various factors. While it is possible to achieve a serum calcidiol concentration of 50 nmol/l in the summer months through the body’s own formation, sun exposure in Central Europe is not sufficient in the period from October to March.
Source: Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol 2020; 13: 759-765.
DERMATOLOGY PRACTICE 2020; 30(6): 21
