Acne and Gut Health - The Link Between Digestion and Your Skin

If you experience acne, have you thought about the inside of your body as much as the outside?

What if your digestive system is host to some important clues as to why you are suffering from acne?

Let’s take a closer look at acne and the potential link between digestion and your skin, and what you can do with 5 easy steps to support this vital connection.

What is Acne?

Acne is one of the most common skin conditions, estimated to affect 9.4% of the global population, making it the eighth most prevalent disease worldwide.

Around 80-90% of people will experience acne at some point during their lifetime.

The onset of acne usually occurs during adolescence and in young adulthood. It can also go on to affect adults into their 20s, 30s, and even 40s.

Epidemiological studies have demonstrated that acne is most common in post-pubescent teens, with boys most frequently affected, particularly with more severe disease forms (1). Adult women are also increasingly being affected by acne (2).

Acne vulgaris is the most common form of acne, consisting of whiteheads and blackheads, and is found typically on the face, neck, and back.

Acne causes spots and oily skin, which can often become inflamed and painful to touch. It can be mild to severe in symptoms..

Acne occurs when sebum - an oily substance that lubricates hair and skin - and dead skin cells plug the hair follicles. Bacteria can also trigger inflammation and infections, contributing to more severe acne.

What Are the Common Triggers for Acne?

Acne is a multifaceted disease, but these common factors are thought to trigger or worsen acne, including:

• Diet - A diet high in sugars, dairy, fast foods, and highly processed foods may trigger or make acne worse.

• Hormonal changes - Hormonal fluctuations, whether in teens or adulthood, are linked to acne.

• Stress - Being in a highly stressed state, especially for prolonged periods of time, may be closely linked to acne and breakouts.