Diet & Skin Health

What you eat affects the condition of your skin, from managing inflammatory conditions like psoriasis, eczema, and hidradenitis suppurativa to preserving your skin’s strength and appearance.

A wide range of nutrients, including vitamins A, C, D, and E, fatty acids, zinc, copper, selenium, and plant-derived compounds, play a role in protecting skin and reducing signs of aging.

Alongside other lifestyle factors, such as proper hydration and sun protection, a nutritious diet can help your skin stay healthy and keep skin conditions in check.

Common Questions & Answers

What foods promote healthy skin?

Antioxidant-rich and fiber-packed fruits and vegetables, healthy fats, fiber, and lean proteins are all foods that help protect the skin from toxins and damage, reduce inflammation, and improve collagen production. Drinking water is also crucial for skin health.

Diet and acne may directly interact. In particular, diets that contain a lot of high glycemic index foods and dairy products may worsen acne in some people. Reducing processed food intake may lessen the severity and frequency of breakouts.

According to some research, drinking enough water daily may help keep skin hydrated and healthy looking by preventing dehydration. However, this may only apply to people who are already dehydrated.

Vitamins A, C, E, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids are vital for skin health. Avoiding unhealthy fats and excess sugar in your diet can also help reduce skin damage and preserve healthy skin.

Food allergies can cause hives. Food sensitivities can worsen existing eczema patches, cause skin rashes, and increase itchiness. Consult a healthcare professional if you develop rashes and digestive symptoms or struggle to manage eczema after eating certain foods.

Meet Our Experts In Diet & Skin Health
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Resources
  1. Transform Your Skin Health: Diet and Lifestyle Take Center Stage at 2025 AAD Annual Meeting. American Academy of Dermatology Association. March 7, 2025.
  2. Assaf S et al. Nutritional Dermatology: Optimizing Dietary Choices for Skin Health. Nutrients. December 27, 2024.

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