Psoriasis, acne, and hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) are chronic inflammatory skin conditions characterized by systemic inflammation and periodic flare-ups. The Mediterranean Diet (MeDi), which emphasizes vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts, fish, and EVOO, has proven anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Here, we present recent evidence1 supporting that the MeDi, as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, may reduce the severity and flare-ups of these chronic skin conditions.
Psoriasis typically presents as itchy, red skin plaques, sometimes painful, with silvery borders. About 40% of people with psoriasis develop psoriatic arthritis, which can lead to irreversible joint damage.
Several studies show that closely following the MeDi is linked to lower psoriasis severity. (MeDi adherence was measured by scores on the 14-item PREDIMED food questionnaire.) People with the least adherence to the MeDi had the most severe psoriasis.
Notably, higher intake of EVOO and more consumption of fish (a main source of omega-3 fatty acids) were independently linked to less severe psoriasis and lower levels of CRP (C-reactive protein), a measure of inflammation. These findings suggest that both the MeDi as a whole, and the individual components of EVOO and fish, exert anti-inflammatory and protective effects in psoriasis via bioactive compounds, in particular MUFAs and vitamin D.
Acne has multiple contributing factors (genetic, environmental, bacterial) and, although it often emerges during adolescence, persists into the 20s and 30s in many people.
In a case-controlled study, participants with acne had significantly lower PREDIMED scores than did controls. Those with less severe acne were significantly more likely to consume EVOO, fish, and fruit; more severe acne was linked to lower adherence to the MeDi. (Another case-controlled study showed no significant association between the MeDi and acne severity.)
A separate study found that participants with higher MeDi adherence had lower systemic levels of IGF-1 (insulin-like growth factor 1), a protein that plays a key role in the development of acne.
HS is marked by painful lesions (boils) that often form in body areas with skin folds, such as the armpits, chest, and groin; these lesions can lead to scarring. Of all chronic skin conditions, HS has the most debilitating impact on quality of life.2
Three studies have confirmed a link between close adherence to the MeDi and lower HS disease severity. A large cross-sectional study found that consuming EVOO and choosing poultry over red meat were the main factors linking the MeDi to less severe HS in participants. Evidence indicates that the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory components of the MeDi—in particular, MUFAs, omega-3s, and polyphenols—can help reduce the severity of HS.
Key takeaway: The anti-inflammatory, antioxidant benefits of the MeDi distinguish it as a valid medical nutrition therapy (MNT) for the management of chronic inflammatory skin conditions, as
a holistic complement to pharmacological treatments.
References: 1. Annunziata G et al. Curr Nutr Reports. 2025;14(1):42. 2. Balieva F et al. Br J Dermatol. 2017;176(5):1170-1178.