There is no conclusive evidence that foods directly cause acne, but some types of diets and certain foods may exacerbate acne symptoms in some people.
And now, in greater depth
While there is no conclusive evidence that foods directly cause acne, studies show that some types of diets and certain foods may exacerbate acne symptoms in some people. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, high glycemic index foods such as white bread, sugar, and potato chips have been linked to acne. Dairy products, particularly skim milk, may also worsen acne.
In addition to diet, hormones and genetics can also play a role in acne development. Dr. Diane Berson, a dermatologist in New York City, explains that “Acne is caused by a combination of factors, including hormones, genetics, and environment”. It’s important to note that what may trigger acne in one person may not necessarily affect another.
Despite the lack of conclusive evidence, some individuals have found relief from acne through dietary changes. A study published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics found that a low-glycemic index diet “may be of benefit in reducing acne lesions in males”. Another study published in Dermatology Practical & Conceptual found that a plant-based diet may help improve acne symptoms.
Table:
| Foods that may exacerbate acne symptoms | Foods that may improve acne symptoms |
|---|---|
| High glycemic index foods (white bread, sugar, potato chips) | Low glycemic index foods (vegetables, fruits, whole grains) |
| Dairy products, particularly skim milk | Plant-based diet |
| Fried and greasy foods | Foods rich in vitamins A and E |
| Chocolate and caffeine | Omega-3 fatty acids |
Overall, it is important to listen to your body and pay attention to any changes in your skin when trying out new diets. Consulting with a dermatologist may also help determine the best course of action for managing acne. As Dr. Berson puts it, “It’s important to work with your dermatologist to develop an individualized acne treatment plan that takes into account all of the factors that contribute to your acne, including diet, to achieve the best possible results.”
See related video
Nutritionists share their insights on how different foods affect skin health and acne. Processed foods, refined carbs, and sugary foods can trigger breakouts by increasing inflammation and clogging pores, while dairy can increase sebum production. Conversely, incorporating foods rich in zinc, antioxidants, and vitamin A can improve skin health by reducing inflammation and promoting clear skin. Proper skincare, good sleep, regular exercise, managing stress, and staying hydrated with water are also important factors. The nutritionist suggests using a gentle cleanser with warm water and seeing a registered dietician nutritionist for personalized dietary advice. Despite their expertise, the nutritionist admits to still struggling with breakouts.
Other viewpoints exist
Food alone doesn’t cause acne — or prevent it. Your genes, lifestyle, and what you eat all play a role in the condition. But some foods may make it worse, while others help your skin stay healthy. Scientists need to do more research to know how specific foods really affect the condition.
And here are the top three foods that cause acne and why:
- Dairy Scientists have been examining the link between dairy consumption and acne for a long time.
- Refined Carbohydrates and Sugar People who have acne tend to eat more refined carbohydrates than those who don’t have acne.
- Fast Food
Foods such as milk chocolate, french fries, and sugary drinks are among those that can increase acne risk. Experts say adults who experience acne breakouts should make changes in their diet, like eating more fruits and vegetables. Fatty foods, dairy, and sweetened treats can raise the risk of acne in adults.
You’re more likely to have acne if your diet is full of foods and drinks like soda, white bread, white rice, and cake. The sugar and carbohydrates in these foods tend to get into your blood really quickly. That means they are high on the glycemic index, a measure of how foods affect blood sugar.
Fast food items, such as burgers, nuggets, hot dogs, French fries, sodas, and milkshakes, are mainstays of a typical Western diet and may increase acne risk. One 2010 study in over 5,000 Chinese teenagers and young adults found that high fat diets were associated with a 43% increased risk of developing acne.
Cheese is exonerated by some studies, while other studies include it,” says Dr. Howe. Milk however, particularly skim milk, seems to be the main acne culprit. “Skim milk actually showed a stronger acne association than whole milk.
I am sure you will be interested in this
Which foods cause the most acne?
Top 6 Foods That Can Cause Acne
- Refined grains and sugars. People with acne tend to consume more refined carbohydrates than people with little or no acne ( 4 , 5 ).
- Dairy products.
- Fast food.
- Chocolate.
- Whey protein powder.
- Foods you’re sensitive to.
Why am I breaking out now that I’m eating healthy?
Answer will be: If you do decide to make a positive change to your food and skincare routine, you should expect a degree of ‘purging’ during which your skin may breakout initially. This is a normal reaction and means the body is responding to change.
What foods help clear acne? Which foods might help to improve acne?
- fish, such as mackerel, salmon, and sardines.
- pastured eggs.
- soybeans and soy products, such as tofu.
- spinach and kale.
- navy beans.
- grass-fed beef.
- nuts, such as walnuts and almonds.
- flaxseeds.
One may also ask, What foods to avoid for clear skin? Response to this: Avoid These 10 Foods If You Want Clear Skin
- Milk and Dairy Products. Milk and dairy products are often cited as public enemy number one when it comes to acne.
- Alcoholic Beverages.
- Refined Carbohydrates.
- High-Glycemic Foods.
- Fatty Foods.
- Whey Protein Powder.
- Highly Processed Convenience Foods.
- Chocolate.
What foods increase acne risk? Foods such as milk chocolate, french fries, and sugary drinks are among those that can increase acne risk. Experts say adults who experience acne breakouts should make changes in their diet, like eating more fruits and vegetables. Fatty foods, dairy, and sweetened treats can raise the risk of acne in adults.
Subsequently, Why do I have acne if I eat soda? You’re more likely to have acne if your diet is full of foods and drinks like soda, white bread, white rice, and cake. The sugar and carbohydrates in these foods tend to get into your blood really quickly. That means they are high on the glycemic index, a measure of how foods affect blood sugar.
Does fast food cause acne?
The answer is: Fast food items, such as burgers, nuggets, hot dogs, French fries, sodas, and milkshakes, are mainstays of a typical Western diet and may increase acne risk. One 2010 study in over 5,000 Chinese teenagers and young adults found that high fat diets were associated with a 43% increased risk of developing acne.
Simply so, Does Cheese cause acne? The answer is: Cheese is exonerated by some studies, while other studies include it,” says Dr. Howe. Milk however, particularly skim milk, seems to be the main acne culprit. “Skim milk actually showed a stronger acne association than whole milk.
What foods increase acne risk?
The response is: Foods such as milk chocolate, french fries, and sugary drinks are among those that can increase acne risk. Experts say adults who experience acne breakouts should make changes in their diet, like eating more fruits and vegetables. Fatty foods, dairy, and sweetened treats can raise the risk of acne in adults.
Is there a relationship between diet and acne? If you’re breaking out, you might be taking a good hard look at your diet. You might have heard that greasy foods can contribute to breakouts. While there is some truth to that, and it’s a good idea to avoid greasy food, the relationship between diet and acne is more complicated than that.
Then, Does fast food cause acne?
Response: Fast food items, such as burgers, nuggets, hot dogs, French fries, sodas, and milkshakes, are mainstays of a typical Western diet and may increase acne risk. One 2010 study in over 5,000 Chinese teenagers and young adults found that high fat diets were associated with a 43% increased risk of developing acne.
Is bread bad for acne? The bread basket is tempting, no doubt about it. Unfortunately processed foods and unrefined carbohydrates like white bread, white pasta, pizza, and even potato chips are “eespecially bad for acne,” says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Kenneth Howe. Similar to sugar, processed foods and starches have a high glycemic index.