Your Food Is Showing Up On Your Face
Acne is one of the most common skin concerns, and it affects more than just teenagers. As a board-certified dermatologist, I’ve seen more adults—especially women—struggle with persistent breakouts, often hormonal in nature. Fortunately, advances in dermatology have given us a deeper understanding of acne and a range of effective treatments that go beyond basic topicals.
The key to managing acne lies in using the right ingredients. With so many products on the market, marketing can be misleading, so I encourage patients to read labels like they would food packaging—looking for ingredients that are backed by science. Five in particular stand out: salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, niacinamide, and azelaic acid.
Salicylic acid clears out clogged pores, making it great for blackheads and whiteheads. Benzoyl peroxide targets the bacteria behind inflamed acne but should be used in low concentrations to minimize irritation. Retinoids are one of the most powerful tools in skincare, reducing clogged pores, inflammation, and discoloration. Niacinamide helps control oil and calm the skin, while azelaic acid reduces redness and helps fade dark spots.
We also now know that diet plays a role in acne. High-glycemic foods, processed carbs, and dairy—especially skim milk—are linked to breakouts, while antioxidant-rich and omega-3-heavy diets support clearer skin. For hormonal acne, targeted supplements like saw palmetto, DIM, myo-inositol, zinc, vitamin D, and spearmint tea can help regulate hormones and inflammation, particularly for those with PCOS.
Moisturizing is just as important. Even oily or acne-prone skin needs hydration, especially at night when the skin naturally loses moisture. Skipping this step can actually increase oil production and irritation.
Finally, the most important piece of advice: be consistent. Acne forms deep within the skin and takes time to improve—usually six to eight weeks. With the right combination of ingredients, dietary awareness, and patience, clear skin is absolutely achievable.
