Exploring Links Between Acne and Metabolic Syndrome: A Narrative Review

January 2025 in “ Open Medicine ”

Yang Zhao, Shifang Wan, Jingjing Yang, Lu Cao, Jianyong Fan

acne metabolic syndrome mTORC1 signaling chronic inflammation insulin resistance Western diets sedentary lifestyles

TLDR Acne may signal underlying metabolic issues, and lifestyle changes can help manage both.

This narrative review examines the relationship between acne and metabolic syndrome (MetS), identifying shared pathogenic mechanisms such as mTORC1 signaling dysregulation, chronic inflammation, and insulin resistance. It finds that individuals with acne have a higher prevalence of MetS, suggesting acne may indicate underlying metabolic dysfunction. The review emphasizes the importance of lifestyle modifications and pharmacological treatments in managing both conditions and highlights the role of Western diets and sedentary lifestyles in exacerbating them. It calls for further large-scale studies to better understand the acne-MetS link and improve patient outcomes.

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