Foods that you might need to avoid for clearer skin: A Memo

I've been visiting aestheticians recently for some self-care sessions, and I was informed that food would play a huge role in skincare, so I asked some questions and did some research to find out that there are certain types of foods that may not be beneficial for the health and appearance of your skin.

So here are some memo of foods that you may want to avoid or limit in your diet for healthy, radiant skin!

Processed foods 

Processed foods are foods that have been altered from their natural state in some way, such as by being canned, frozen, or packaged. These types of foods are often high in refined sugars, artificial ingredients, and unhealthy fats, which can contribute to inflammation and breakouts. Examples of processed foods include pre-packaged snacks, fast food, and frozen dinners. To promote healthy skin, it's a good idea to limit your intake of processed foods and choose whole, unprocessed foods instead. 

A review published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (JAAD) found that a diet high in processed foods and refined sugars may be associated with an increased risk of acne, which can lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). PIH is a type of discoloration that occurs as a result of inflammation, such as that caused by acne.

Fried foods 

Fried foods are high in unhealthy fats, such as trans fats and saturated fats, which can contribute to inflammation and clogged pores. Examples of fried foods include fried chicken, French fries, and doughnuts. To promote healthy skin, it's a good idea to limit your intake of fried foods and choose healthier cooking methods, such as baking, grilling, or sautéing.

A study published in the British Journal of Dermatology found that a diet high in fruits and vegetables was associated with a lower risk of uneven pigmentation or discoloration of the skin. The study found that a diet rich in carotenoids, which are plant pigments found in fruits and vegetables, was particularly protective against uneven pigmentation.

Dairy products

NaturalNews, a Japanese website found that a diet high in dairy products was associated with an increased risk of acne, where a person drinks 2 to 3 cups of milk has a 44% higher chance of getting acne, and even more with skimmed milk due to its higher content in IGF, though more research may be required.

In addition, some people may be sensitive to dairy products, which can cause inflammation and breakouts. This is because dairy products contain proteins that some people may have difficulty digesting, leading to irritation in the skin. Examples of dairy products include milk, cheese, and yogurt. If you suspect that dairy products may be causing problems for your skin, it may be helpful to try eliminating them from your diet for a period of time to see if your skin improves. You can also choose dairy alternatives, such as almond milk or soy milk, which may be better tolerated by those with sensitive skin. It's a good idea to speak with a dermatologist or a nutritionist if you have concerns about dairy and your skin.

Alcohol

A review published in the British Journal of Dermatology found that alcohol consumption was associated with an increased risk of acne. The review also found that abstaining from alcohol or limiting alcohol intake may be protective against acne.

Alcohol can dehydrate the skin and contribute to inflammation and breakouts. When you drink alcohol, your body becomes dehydrated, which can cause your skin to look dull and dry. In addition, alcohol can increase inflammation in the body, which can lead to redness and breakouts. To promote healthy skin, it's a good idea to limit your intake of alcohol and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Caffeine

A review published in the British Journal of Dermatology found that caffeine consumption was associated with an increased risk of acne. The review also found that abstaining from caffeine or limiting caffeine intake may be protective against acne. While coffee doesn't cause acne, some studies suggest it can make it worse by increasing alertness and heightening stress response in the body, which leads to having your stress hormones, such as cortisol, to increase the amount of oil produced by your sebaceous glands, meaning you can be more prone to breakouts.

Caffeine is a stimulant that is found in beverages like coffee, tea, and soda. While caffeine can provide a temporary energy boost, it can also dehydrate the skin and contribute to inflammation. When you consume caffeine, your body tends to lose more water, which can cause your skin to look dry and dull. To promote healthy skin, it's a good idea to limit your intake of caffeine and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

It's important to note that everyone's skin is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. If you're not sure which foods may be causing problems for your skin, it may be helpful to keep a food diary and note any changes in your skin after eating certain foods. You may also want to consider consulting with a dermatologist or a nutritionist for personalized advice.

In general, it's a good idea to eat a healthy, balanced diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats, and to drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated. This can help to support the health and appearance of your skin from the inside out as well.