Does diet and facial masks affect skin complexion?

Doctor's Answers 2

Yes it’s true that there have NEVER been any proven studies linking diet as a factor in causing acne. Even the studies on diary was equivocal.

Having said that, I tell my own patients to stay away from certain types of foods if they think it’s triggering acne. Moreover, I’m pretty sure unhealthy diets can’t be good for the skin in general!

Conversely, if you eat well, sleep well, exercise and keep fit, not just your skin, but all your other body organs benefit. So yes, I’d say a healthy diet would have benefits on your complexion.

For some science evidence on the link between nutrition and skin agin, you can check out this article here. It concludes that “fruit and vegetables consumption may represent the most healthy and safe method in order to maintain a balanced diet and youthful appearing skin”.

Also, is putting raw superfood rich in antioxidants and vitamins on the face beneficial and recommended?I put foodstuff such as raw manuka honey(UMF 16+) on my face, I tried putting blueberries but I think my skin got irritated.

I’ve never seen any science evidence behind “putting raw superfoods on your face” myself, beyond the beneficial effects you are getting from a moisturizer-type effect. Having said that, you of course also run the risk of developing a mild allergic reaction, as some of these food stuffs can be irritating on your skin. Personally, I’d stick to eating these super foods for their antioxidant effects, and use a normal moisturiser.

Cheers

Indeed as mentioned, healthy food consumption has not been directly linked to healthier looking skin, but there has been a theoretical association of simple sugars and acne provocation. Simple sugars are pro-inflammatory in nature and therefore have the potential to provoke or worsen breakouts. These include simple sugars and milk.

While overly simplified an explanation and lacking in definitive evidence, I (and several doctors can testify) have come across countless patients who swear in an improvement in their acne only after modification of their diet to exclude or reduce sugar-rich diets.

Acne never really is a simple issue, and many factors are at play. These include hormonal issues and improper skin care routines. Should you be facing persistent acne problems, an early consult with your dermatologist or aesthetic physician might be a good idea to control it before the long term sequelae (such as scarring) set in - these are much more troublesome to manage.

Most importantly, remember to keep your skin care routine simple; your face does not beg for a hundred different serums and moisturisers to glow. Cutting down to the few necessities and your essential non oil-based sunscreen should suffice. Should you need good advice on the appropriate skin care products, do again consult your doctor on it.

Happy eating!

Best,
Shane

P/S Don't waste that good food! There are high concentration vitamin C serums for that purpose!

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