Do Carbs cause acne?

Acne is a common skin condition that affects almost 10 percent of the world’s population, and while there are many factors that can contribute to the development of acne, diet is one of the more significant factors. 

However, food alone does not cause acne, nor prevent it. A combination of other factors like your genetic makeup, lifestyle and other foods you eat all play a role in this skin condition. Some foods may make it worse, while others help your skin stay healthy and happy. 

In this particular post, we’ll be focusing specifically on carbs and its effect on the skin. 

Many of us know that eating refined grains and sugars isn’t the healthiest option, so likewise it is not the best option for our skin and acne either. This is because refined grains quickly increase the insulin levels in your body, creating a condition that exacerbates acne. As insulin levels increase, so do androgen hormones and a substance known as an insulin growth-like factor 1 (IGF-1). This combination makes skin cells grow at a faster rate and increases sebum production which may ultimately lead to a higher chance of acne. 

Habits to prevent acne

1. Reassess your diet 

Firstly, cut back on processed food as these foods tend to clog pores. Alcohol will also dry out the skin and also lead to breakouts. However, this does not mean to completely cut it out!

1. Balance your skincare routine

Regardless of whether you have a minimal skincare regime or one that is a bit more complex, the most important thing is to make sure that everything works together in harmony. For example, if you are oily or acne prone, then look for products that won’t aggravate the situation. After intense treatments - a peel, pore-cleansing mask, or even a razor shave - use gentle cleansers with a nourishing, restorative hydrator. 

For an A.M. routine, we would recommend washing your face with Kaleasner face wash, followed by Idyllic Fields moisturiser and end off with Morning Glow sunscreen. 

For a P.M. routine, we would recommend the Youth Beam serum with our Tea-Tox sheet mask and to end off Dream Capsule overnight sleeping mask. 

1. Improving your post-workout protocol

When using a towel to wipe the sweat away, don’t rub your face with the towel, PAT it dry. Rubbing it with a towel may cause irritation and more breakouts. You can also wash your face after a workout but be careful not to wash too many times nor scrub top hard - being gentle is key. 

1. Wash pillowcases and towels weekly 

This is pretty self explanatory - to avoid bacteria buildup

1. Hydrate your sleep space

When the air is dry, it pulls moisture from every possible source, including your skin. Hence, even the oily skin types can experience dry-skin blemishes. Keeping a humidifier going throughout the night can help to create a shield over your skin and prevent moisture loss. 

1. More sleep!

Last but not least, SLEEP! It’s incredible how good sleep is for both the skin and body since the body rejuvenates and repairs overnight.