Biomarkers of oxidative stress correlated with the severity of acne vulgaris, according to a recent review published in the Archives of Dermatological Research. 

"The relationship between acne vulgaris and oxidative stress biomarkers lacks a clear consensus," the authors wrote. "This study aimed to explore the potential correlation between acne vulgaris and circulating oxidative stress biomarkers (superoxide dismutase [SOD], malondialdehyde [MDA], and total antioxidant capacity [TAC])."

The researchers reviewed literature published before June 26, 2023, searching PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases, finishing with a total sample of 14 trials involving 1,191 participants.

The results suggested a significant association between acne vulgaris and malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations (SMD = 1.73; 95% CI 1.05, 2.4; P <  0.001). Moreover, subgroup analyses, stratified by acne vulgaris severity, reveal compelling insights. Notably, total antioxidant capacity (TAC) concentrations were markedly lower in patients with moderate acne vulgaris versus controls (SMD =  − 1.37; 95% CI =  − 2.15, − 0.58, P = 0.001). Similarly, superoxide dismutase (SOD) concentrations showed significant decline (SMD =  − 2.92; 95% CI =  − 5.39, − 0.46, P = 0.02), while MDA concentrations surged (SMD = 2.26; 95% CI = 0.95, 3.57, P = 0.001) in patients with severe acne vulgaris versus controls.

The researchers concluded that "oxidative stress may exist in acne vulgaris," and further noted that the severity of acne vulgaris also correlated with oxidative stress.

Source: Su L, Wang F, Wang Y, Qin C, Yang X, Ye J. Circulating biomarkers of oxidative stress in people with acne vulgaris: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Archives of Dermatological Research. 2024;316(4). doi:https://doi.org/10.1007/s00403-024-02840-5