Influência do consumo de whey protein na manifestação e agravamento da acne vulgaris: revisão narrativa

Abstract

Acne vulgaris is one of the most prevalent inflammatory dermatoses worldwide, primarily affecting adolescents and young adults, with a significant impact on skin health and quality of life. It is characterized by lesions such as comedones, papules, and pustules, resulting from multifactorial causes, including increased sebum production, follicular hyperkeratinization, proliferation of the bacterium Cutibacterium acnes, and inflammatory response. Hormonal and dietary factors, especially those related to elevated insulin levels and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), may exacerbate the clinical condition. Although effective topical treatments are available, oral isotretinoin is considered the most effective systemic therapy for moderate to severe cases, acting by reducing sebum production, normalizing keratinization, and modulating the inflammatory response. However, its use requires clinical monitoring due to potential adverse effects, including mucocutaneous and metabolic alterations, as well as teratogenic risk. In parallel, the consumption of protein supplements, such as whey protein, has been associated with the worsening of acne, possibly due to stimulation of insulin secretion and increased IGF1 levels, leading to activation of the mTOR (mammalian Target of Rapamycin) pathway, which promotes keratinocyte proliferation and increased sebaceous gland activity. This study aimed to analyze the influence of whey protein consumption on the onset and exacerbation of acne vulgarisisis, as well as to discuss possible implications for isotretinoin treatment. This is a literature review conducted through searches in the PubMed, Scopus, and SciELO databases, including articles published between 2010 and 2026. Studies addressing the relationship between acne vulgaris, protein supplementation, and, when applicable, isotretinoin use were included. The results indicate conflicting evidence: while observational studies suggest an association between whey protein consumption and acne worsening, clinical trials have not demonstrated conclusive results. From a theoretical perspective, there may be antagonism between the effects of isotretinoin and the metabolic stimuli induced by the supplement, in addition to potential hepatic implications. In conclusion, despite the lack of definitive evidence, caution is recommended regarding the concomitant use of whey protein and isotretinoin, with appropriate professional guidance and clinical monitoring. Further studies are needed to clarify this potential interaction.