Skip to main content
Hailey Bieber at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures Gala.
Prince William, Meghan Markle, Prince Harry, and King Charles together.
Melania Trump speaking at the United Nations event.

Beauty

The Absolute Worst Foods For Your Skin--What Are They?

June 13, 2017 by Justine Schwartz
shefinds | Beauty
Featured image

We're not trying to get preachy, you should be able to eat and drink what you want in life, but the truth is that if your skin is on the fritz, it might be because of something in your diet. 

 

Click through the slideshow to find out the absolute *worst* things you can eat because they cause breakouts, wrinkles, redness and more. 

Foods that negatively impact skin health and appearance

Candy

 

Sugar may be the reason for all your skincare woes. Studies have shown that it contributes to acne in adolescence. "In countries without diets heavy in processed sugar, kids go through puberty without acne," explains Patricia Farris, MD, dermatologist and author of "The Sugar Detox."

 

Additionally, processed sugar causes a burst of inflammation throughout the body, which deteriorates collagen and elastin (the stuff that keeps your skin young-looking!). Yikes!

Common foods that cause skin issues and irritation

Fast Food

 

Blame the high glycemic index of fast food for it's negative skincare effects. A study in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics found that diets high in carbohydrates and processed sugars were associated with acne. Say it ain't so!

Unhealthy foods linked to poor skin condition

Juices and Sodas

 

High in sugar and low in fiber, these non- hydrating drinks mean more breakouts and wrinkles. 

Worst foods for maintaining clear and healthy skin

Milk

 

"Milk can be full of growth hormones and growth factors that remain biologically active even after pasteurization," Valori Treloar, MD, dermatologist and author of "The Clear Skin Diet" told Prevention.

Foods to avoid for better skin texture and tone

READ MORE: 9 Guilt-Free Foods That Won't Cause Weight Gain (No Matter How Much You Eat!)

Author:

Editorial Director

Justine Schwartz is a veteran women's lifestyle editor; she's written extensively about style & beauty tips, health advice and wedding planning. Her work has appeared in New York Magazine, Huffington Post and New York Weddings. Justine has been with SheFinds since 2010; you can reach her via email at Justine@shefinds.com.

Summer superfoods for boosting collagen and glowing skin.
Best beauty deals on Amazon during Prime Day.
Woman applying sunscreen for sun protection outdoors.
The viral Italian bob hair trend for summer 2026.
Nina Ubhi demonstrating concealer application on YouTube.
Six beauty habits causing skin inflammation unknowingly.
Older woman performing her skincare routine.
Sipping spearmint tea for relaxation and digestion.
Hair mistakes that may age you, according to stylists.
Anti-aging skincare advice from Arielle Lorre and Dr. Anthony Youn.
Best foundation types for mature skin to minimize wrinkles.
Butterfly haircut inspiration from Instagram by The Studio.
Fresh haircut styles for a polished look in 2026.
Pouring shampoo into hand for hair washing.
Everyday habits that could accelerate collagen breakdown.
Vibrant assortment of groceries from Shutterstock image.
Top summer fragrances and scents for 2026, recommended by editors.
Makeup tips from Nikol Johnson featured on YouTube.
Common skincare mistakes women over 40 make regarding fine lines (duplicate).
Hairstyles that enhance facial features and provide a subtle lift.
Summer superfoods for boosting collagen and glowing skin.
Best beauty deals on Amazon during Prime Day.

Beauty

Prime Day is basically a holiday for anyone who's ...

Woman applying sunscreen for sun protection outdoors.
The viral Italian bob hair trend for summer 2026.
Nina Ubhi demonstrating concealer application on YouTube.
Six beauty habits causing skin inflammation unknowingly.
Older woman performing her skincare routine.
Sipping spearmint tea for relaxation and digestion.
Hair mistakes that may age you, according to stylists.
Anti-aging skincare advice from Arielle Lorre and Dr. Anthony Youn.
Best foundation types for mature skin to minimize wrinkles.
Butterfly haircut inspiration from Instagram by The Studio.
Fresh haircut styles for a polished look in 2026.
Pouring shampoo into hand for hair washing.
Everyday habits that could accelerate collagen breakdown.
Vibrant assortment of groceries from Shutterstock image.
Top summer fragrances and scents for 2026, recommended by editors.

Beauty

Summer is my favorite season. If I could bottle up ...

Makeup tips from Nikol Johnson featured on YouTube.
Common skincare mistakes women over 40 make regarding fine lines (duplicate).
Hairstyles that enhance facial features and provide a subtle lift.