If you’ve ever struggled with stubborn acne flare-ups despite trying every cream and cleanser, your diet might be playing a bigger role than you realise. What you eat doesn’t just fuel your body – it can directly influence your skin by triggering hormonal changes and inflammation.
Dr Aanchal Panth, an Indian dermatologist and hair transplant surgeon, has shared three foods that should be avoided by people with acne-prone skin, reports Hindustan Times.
In an Instagram video posted on August 28, the dermatologist broke down the physiological mechanisms behind how certain foods impact the skin – ranging from hormonal fluctuations to inflammation.
She also highlighted foods to avoid and suggested healthier alternatives to swap them with. She added, “While food is not the only reason for acne, making mindful choices can reduce flare-ups and support your treatment.”
Dairy
Dairy products, especially skimmed milk, can raise the levels of Insulin-like Growth Hormone (IGF-1), which is produced by the liver. According to Dr Panth, it ‘triggers oil production and inflammation, worsening breakouts’.
Sugar and refined carbs
Refined carbs or foods that contain high levels of sugar should be avoided, according to the dermatologist. It causes insulin spikes leading to hormonal fluctuations. This results in clogged pores, causing more breakouts and pimples
Processed foods
Junk food and ultra-processed foods often contain tons of unhealthy fats and additives that are detrimental for the skin, according to Dr Panth. They fuel inflammation in the skin, leading to pimples and acne, the Hindustan times report adds.
Food alternatives
Dr Panth provided a list of foods that should be avoided to prevent skin flare-ups and they are as follows:
• Milk
• Sugar
• Fruit juice
• Pizza, burger
• French fries
• Whey protein
Additionally, the dermatologist provided healthier alternatives that are not harmful for the skin and can be incorporated in your daily diet:
• Almond milk
• Balanced diet
• Vegetarian sources high in protein
• Spinach
• Flaxseeds, chia seeds
• Greek yoghurt
She wrote in her caption, “Does food really affect acne? Yes, for many people it does… dairy (especially skim milk) can increase insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1), which triggers oil production and inflammation, worsening breakouts.”
High sugar foods and refined carbs can cause spikes in insulin, which triggers hormonal fluctuations. This process then triggers clogged pores leading to more pimples, she said.
Dr pantha added, “Processed and junk food are often loaded with unhealthy fats and additives that fuel inflammation in the skin.” Glowing skin starts from the inside too, she said.
Bd-pratidin English/FNC
