How Cholesterol And Acne Are Linked

Liver makes cholesterol and is vital for performing several bodily functions. However, high cholesterol can lead to severe health complications including heart attack and stroke. It not just impacts the internal functioning of the body, but outer functions are impacted too. A lesser known fact is that an increase in cholesterol can lead to the appearance of small pimples and acne on the face. Along with acne, high cholesterol can also result in skin colour changes, rashes, and itchiness. Most people tend to ignore these skin changes, but it should be taken as a warning sign to get your cholesterol checked. OnlyMyHealth editorial team spoke to Dermatologist Dr. Nivedita Dadu, Founder - Dr. Nivedita Dadu's Dermatology Clinic, to know about the link between cholesterol and acne. 

Established Link Between Cholesterol & Acne

According to a study published in NCBI, on January 21, 2020, there is a correlation between lipid profile abnormalities and acne vulgaris. Generally, high cholesterol has no prominent symptoms. However, if you are experiencing severe acne on your skin, it is advisable to get a complete blood test done for further diagnosis and treatment. 

While shedding more light on the connection between cholesterol and acne, Dr. Nivedita Dadu, said, "There is an indirect link between cholesterol and acne. The primary factors responsible for this occurrence are inactive lifestyle and poor eating habits. Bingeing on sugary, fried, and processed foods can lead to high cholesterol levels and acne on your skin." 

How To Control Cholesterol? 

High cholesterol levels are a common concern for people in varied age groups in today’s time. One must take appropriate actions to keep a check on the rising levels for overall health and wellness. Listed below are a few simple health tips to control cholesterol: 

1. Follow A Healthy Diet: Diet plays a crucial role in managing cholesterol levels. Consuming heart-healthy foods such as dry fruits, fresh fruits, and vegetables can be effective in maintaining healthy cholesterol. 

2. Exercise Regularly: Regular exercise is beneficial for reducing bad cholesterol (LDL) and increasing good cholesterol (HDL) levels. Additionally, indulging in daily physical activity can enhance skin health and prevent acne. 

Also read: Know These 7 Natural Ways To Lower Cholesterol Levels

3. Avoid Smoking And Alcohol: Smoking cigarettes and overconsuming alcohol are often linked to high blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid these.

Although acne mostly happens due to clogged hair follicles on skin, spike in cholesterol levels can also be a reason. There are a wide range of factors that can affect a person’s susceptibility to acne. Henceforth, one should not reside in home remedies and visit an expert for treatment instead.