Most commonly experienced during puberty, acne is a skin condition characterized by pimples and zits on the skin of the face, arms, chest and back. Acne is considered to be a normal body reaction to abnormal amounts of the hormone testosterone in the system. Acne is caused when the sebaceous oil glands of the skin become clogged and inflamed, leaving sore, unattractive, red marks and bumps on the skin. Food and diet play a role in skin health, hormones and bodily inflammation and may be adjusted to control the severity of acne that is experienced.
Step 1
Consume foods that are high in vitamin A. This vitamin, also known as retinol, helps with acne because it contributes to the correction of abnormal formations of the top layer of skin near the hair follicle, which is where the sebaceous glads are found. Foods that range from red to yellow in color such as bell peppers, carrots, tomatoes, squash and sweet potatoes are all significant dietary sources of vitamin A.
Step 2
Eat foods containing omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. Fish, walnuts and flax seeds are all foods that are high in dietary omega-3s. These fatty acids help in lowering the body's inflammation response. Inflammatory symptoms in acne such as redness and swelling around pimples can be decreased with regular omega-3 intake. These healthy fats also help to nourish the skin and moisturize naturally from the inside out, reducing the need for topical creams that may further irritate and clog the pores.
Step 3
Include antioxidant rich foods in the diet. Oxidization in the body due to free radicals picked up by pollution, food additives and poor lifestyle habits like smoking and drinking alcohol contribute to acne severity. Antioxidants help to reduce the harmful effects of these free radicals by mending the cells which are damaged from them. Without antioxidants in the diet the skin suffers more visible aging, dryness, lessened elasticity and lowered healing ability, increasing visibility and agitation of acne and acne scars. Berries, nuts, seeds and fresh produce are a source of dietary antioxidants.
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