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If you struggle with acne-prone skin, you’ve probably tried every product and treatment in the book. But the cause of your breakouts may not be the products you’re using on your face, but instead the nutrients you’re putting into your body.
“A clear complexion isn’t just based on what you put on your face, but also what you put in your body,” explains Dr. Howard Sobel, a leading Cosmetic Dermatologist in NYC and owner of Sobel Skin. “Food that is technically ‘healthy’ for your body isn’t always good for acne-prone skin. This is such a common mistake from clients thinking that they are eating ‘healthy,’ but still breaking out.”
Most people don’t understand that you can eat healthy, yet still cause your face to have flare-ups. While every person is different and what works for some with acne may not work for others, Dr. Sobel has a few goods that he recommends people with pimples to steer clear of.
“Limit foods such as coconut oil that can really clog your pores. Bars and drinks that are high in whey protein can also cause outbreaks,” said Dr. Sobel. “Definitely cut out foods that raise blood sugar. High-sugar foods increase hormone levels, which is one of the leading causes of acne.”
If you’re use to not eating foods that are high in sugar but still encounter breakouts, another common food group in your diet could be the cause of your skincare troubles.
“Dairy is one of the worst foods people with acne-prone skin can eat because it not only clogs pores, but also increase hormone levels,” explained Dr. Sobel. “You want to choose foods that neutralize the free radicals in your skin that cause acne, not inflame them.”
Refined carbohydrates are also on Dr. Sobel’s list of foods to avoid if you’re prone to breaking out. They’re processed with sugars and saturated fats which spike insulin levels and irritate your skin cells.
After reading this, you may be thinking “So what foods are safe to eat if you have acne-prone skin?” Dr. Sobel recommends making sure eat a diet that high in probiotics.
“To help heal acne and relieve inflammation, eat foods high in probiotics like kombucha, high in Omega-3 fatty acids like salmon, tuna, and walnuts, a good source of antioxidants including dark leafy greens, vegetables and berries, and foods with zinc including cashews and almonds,” said Dr. Sobel. “Water-based foods will help maintain hydration in your skin including watermelon and cucumbers, and of course, drinking plenty of water is key.”
So if you have acne-prone skin, here’s your ticket to success: drink lots of water, eat foods that are high fiber, Omega-3 fatty acids, and zinc, and take a daily probiotic if your diet isn’t naturally filled with them.
