Imagine a world where everyone could enjoy having clear skin? Unfortunately, we do not live in a perfect world. In fact, billions of dollars are spent on over-the-counter acne treatments every year in America. However, in most cases acne is caused by our diet and treating it with topical products will not be the solution. 

Research has shown that adopting better dietary habits can significantly reduce acne symptoms. As Hippocrates, an ancient Greek physician, once said, “Let food be your medicine and let medicine be your food.”

Acne can be defined as a skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil, dirt, and dead skin cells. Shortly after, pimples start appearing on the surface of the skin. When acne occurs, it damages the skin and the tissues beneath it. As the body attempts to repair this damage, it produces collagen. However, if the body does not produce enough collagen, it can cause an acne scar to appear on the skin. 

For many adults, acne continues to be a problem well beyond their adolescent years. In fact, 70% of patients over the age of twenty struggle with acne. Acne can negatively affect individuals emotional stability, creating dissatisfaction with their appearance, increasing feelings of embarrassment, and lowering self-confidence. Also, acne can cause feelings of anxiety, depression, and anger in these individuals. Unfortunately, acne may lead to permanent scarring and disfigurement, and further the patients emotional well-being. Acne scars can affect both male and female patients and can occur in 95% of people who develop acne.

Although there are many products that claim to fight acne scars. The most natural way to do it is to eat wholesome foods. Studies report that following a healthy diet can prevent and treat acne, plus heal acne scars overtime. For example, dairy-free, low-glycemic, and omega-3 rich diets play a significant role in improving acne.

Keep reading to find out which diets can help remove acne scars and prevent breakouts.

Dairy-Free Diet

Eliminating dairy from your diet can improve the texture and appearance of your skin and improve skin conditions like acne and rosacea. Dairy products usually contain whey protein, hormones and sugar which can cause the most skin issues. 

There are many plant-based dairy alternatives to choose from, such as: cashew milk, almond milk, and coconut milk.

Low-Glycemic or Sugar-Free Diet

Low-glycemic diets are rich in antioxidants and dietary fiber that fight acne. A recent study was able to prove that the consumption of fatty and sugary products, sugary beverages, and milk are all associated with current acne in adults. Eating low-glycemic foods made of complex carbohydrates can also help decrease the risk of developing acne. 

Complex carbohydrates are found in whole grains, legumes, and unprocessed fruits and vegetables. Also, there are many delicious unsweetened beverages to enjoy such as: vitamin water, sparkling water, green tea, hibiscus tea, and lemon water.

Omega-3 Rich Diet

A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids contains antioxidant properties that help reduce inflammation on your skin. Antioxidants are chemicals that help neutralize damaging toxins in the body. Omega-3 is also high in retinol or vitamin A, which helps improve skin regeneration so that your acne scars heal faster. 

Omega-3s can be found in the following foods: seafood, eggs, soy products, leafy green vegetables, nuts and seeds, yellow and orange fruits and vegetables, tomatoes; blueberries, whole-wheat bread, brown rice, and quinoa.

Also, foods containing the following ingredients are also thought to be beneficial for the skin because they reduce inflammation: the mineral zinc, vitamin A and E, and antioxidants. Other herbs and spices that contain anti-inflammatory properties are: turmeric, cinnamon, black pepper, parsley, garlic, ginger, and cayenne pepper.

Incorporating more fruits, vegetables, and fish into your diet can be extremely beneficial to your skin. Food can naturally fuel your skin with the exact vitamins, minerals, and nutrients it needs to stay healthy and strong. Although you will not notice improvement in your skin overnight, consuming foods that naturally reduce inflammation, boost collagen formation, and block environmental toxins can minimize breakouts and remove acne scars overtime. In conclusion, some of the best ways to treat acne naturally is to reduce sugar intake, limit dairy consumption and incorporate more Omega-3s into your diet.