Does clear skin seem out of reach? Acne is an all-too-common skin condition that always seems to pop up at the worst possible moments. Caused by oil, bacteria, and dead skin clogging the pores, breakouts can wreak havoc on your confidence and mood.

Recent studies show that what you eat plays a big role in the development or worsening of acne. The good news? There are foods that can help to reduce breakouts too.

Worst Foods for Acne

Daunting Dairy – Milk, cheese, and yogurt can trigger pimples due to the presence of hormones and other compounds that increase oil production and the growth of acne-causing bacteria.

Cunning Carbohydrates – Simple carbs like white bread, pasta, and sugary treats can spike in insulin levels, leading to breakouts.

Fried Foods – Your favorite fried foods are full of trans fats, which can contribute to inflammation in the body and aggravate acne and other skin conditions.

Processed Provisions – The high content of sugar, salt, and artificial ingredients in processed foods can cause inflammation and blood sugar spikes, making acne worse.

Fantastic Foods for Acne Relief

Vital Vitamins – Vitamin A plays an essential role in skin’s health. It prevents dry skin and supports skin renewal. Foods high in vitamin A include sweet potatoes, carrots, spinach, and cantaloupe.

Fishy Fats – Omega-3 fatty acids, like those found in salmon, mackerel, and herring, are known to protect the skin. They reduce inflammation, keep the skin’s barrier intact, and even improve overall skin appearance.

Green Guardian – Filled with anti-inflammatory antioxidants, green tea is a great way to help clear up your skin. Not only does it help reduce oil production and the appearance of acne, but it also helps to protect your skin from further damage.

Nutty Nourishment – Nuts and seeds are rich in healthy fats, antioxidants, and other nutrients that keep the skin hydrated and prevent damage. The best nuts and seeds to add into your diet are walnuts, sunflower seeds, and chia seeds.

Eight-Glass Guidance – Staying hydrated is key to healthy skin. Drinking at least eight glasses of water a day helps to hydrate skin and flush out acne-causing toxins.

By making easy switches in your diet, you can lower your exposure to factors that cause acne. For an extra helping hand, try  Boiron’s Acne Relief Kit. This kit is an oral acne treatment containing three separate homeopathic medicines — Eugenia jambosa 6C, Kali bromatum 30C, and Selenium metallicum 6C — that you can use together or individually to target different types of breakouts on the face and body.

Clear skin starts on the inside. Whether incorporating nourishing foods into your diet or using homeopathic medicines, there are plenty of ways to help keep your skin acne-free.

For more tips and tricks to stay healthy and happy, check out BoironUSA’s Wellness Tips blog.