Okay guys and gals, we think it’s high time we break up with adult acne instead of breaking out! Those pesky little pimples can be more stubborn than our 13 year old selves right?
So what is adult acne and how can we manage it from within?
Adult acne is acne that occurs after the age of 25. The same factors (for the most part) that cause acne in adolescence play a part in adult acne. These main contributors can be put into four main categories: excess oil production (hormones and stress), clogged pores, bacteria, and inflammation (mostly from diet and genetics).
The correlation between diet and acne has been studied in depth by many researchers over many different corporate and independent studies. A study by French researchers found that foods such as milk, chocolate, fatty/oily foods or sugary drinks could trigger acne in adults. The reasons behind such foods causing acne has to do with the hormones, insulin levels and sebum they produce, in other words, they increase your chances of acne breakouts.
While it’s more commonly known that foods rich in sugar, dairy and oil can cause acne, it’s important to remember not only to drop our intake of these foods, but to fill our bodies with nutritional and acne-fighting foods too. These nutritional foods are going to decrease your chances of acne breakouts, support your body in managing inflammation, increasing antioxidants and collagen production. Watching your diet is one the best ways to support acne naturally with a food-as-medicine approach. Here’s our top 10 tips:
- Anti-inflammatory Omega 3s - salmon, fish, oysters, flax seeds and chia seeds will all help to decrease inflammation which can cause acne.
- Fill your plate with colourful vegetables and fruits, the larger variety of colours means a larger range of nutrients and acne fighting antioxidants. As well as fruits and vegetables being high fibre foods which improve gut microbiota, the bacteria in our gut that assists the digestive system in eliminating toxins. Can’t find enough time to get those greens and reds in? Try Acai Berry Blend and Super Greens + Reds for an antioxidant boost and a wholefood blend of 23 nourishing greens & reds to support gut wellbeing, acid-alkaline balance and antioxidant protection.
- Non-synthetic zinc and vitamin C supplements to assist in skin repair. Cough cough, Collagen Beauty powders and tablets for the win.
- Speaking of collagen, upping your intake of collagen will assist in skin repair and gut wellbeing. As you age, the collagen content in your skin decreases each year, so taking a collagen supplement like Collagen Beauty with VERISOL® Bioactive Peptides, non-synthetic sources of zinc + vitamin C and antioxidants that will promote that precious skin healing.
- Foods high in beta carotene (yellow, orange and green leafy fruits and vegetables) to help reduce inflammation and encourage cell turnover.
- Drinking at least 2L of water a day, reducing toxins and staying hydrated is essential for great skin.
- Foods with selenium (garlic, eggs, brown rice, tuna, salmon). Selenium helps the body produce a special enzyme that combats inflammation. It also works to protect other skin supporting antioxidants.
- Limit milk and cheese with non dairy alternatives, dairy is a known culprit for causing those pesky pimples.
- Limit processed and sugary foods and drinks to limit chances of breakouts.
- Last but not least, get those beauty sleep hours in. While this may not seem like a food tip, it is, let us explain. The foods you eat directly impacts how you sleep, processed foods can often lead to a broken sleep. By eating a balanced diet with great nutrition, you are giving yourself a far better chance of getting a good night's beauty sleep.
If you’re lacking any ideas on how to incorporate some of these foods and products in your diet, check out our recipes online. Remember, there are no quick fixes when it comes to skin health, it’s helpful to see your skin as a lifelong friend, treat her with care, respect and allow it time to rest and heal as you feed that close friend nutrition that can support an acne free face in time.
~This blog is for informational purposes only, regardless of the advice of holistic health practitioners. This article is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice. Please obtain medical advice relevant to your particular circumstances from your health professional.