5 Ways to Improve Acne-Prone Skin Naturally
Share
Acne is a common skin concern affecting many people of varying ages. While topical treatments can be helpful, one of the key ways to begin improving acne-prone skin lies in what you put into your body, not just what you apply to it. Acne can be both mild and chronic; in some more severe cases, acne is treated with prescribed oral and topical medications. Acne is a skin condition that occurs when your hair follicles become plugged with oil and dead skin cells. Multiple factors can drive the increase in oil on the skin, including hormonal, genetic predisposition, and lifestyle factors. This makes the management of acne complex and different depending on the individual.[1] In this blog, we’ll cover five natural ways to enhance your skin health for mild to severe acne, focusing on diet, hydration, and supplements that can help reduce acne and promote clear, healthy skin.
1. Focus on What You Put in Your Body, Not Just on Your Skin
While skincare products can provide topical support, lasting clarity comes from addressing the deeper driving factors that influence your skin, such as hormone imbalances, lifestyle, inflammation, and gut health. Acne isn’t just a surface-level issue; it often reflects what’s happening inside your body. You can create an environment where healthy, radiant skin thrives by nourishing yourself with the right foods and incorporating natural supplements. Instead of fighting breakouts using only topical products, focus on supporting your body from the inside and watch the improvements in your skin and overall wellbeing.
2. Eat a Skin-Healthy Diet: The Power of Glycaemic Index
What you eat directly impacts your skin, and one of the most overlooked factors in acne management is the glycaemic index (GI) of your diet. Increasing evidence suggests a potential link between a high glycaemic index diet and dairy product intake with the development of acne.[2] High-GI foods, like refined sugars, white bread, and processed snacks, result in rapid spikes in blood sugar, triggering increased insulin levels and inflammation, which can contribute to acne breakouts. On the other hand, low-GI, nutrient-dense foods help maintain hormonal balance, reduce skin inflammation, and support clearer skin. Focusing on these foods and reducing processed sugars and refined carbs can help to prevent acne breakouts and promote healthier skin.
3. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
Hydration is key to maintaining healthy, clear skin. When adequately hydrated, skin looks plump and radiant and is less likely to dry out or become irritated. Conversely, dehydration can lead to increased oil production, clogged pores, and acne breakouts. Especially for acne-prone skin, drink at least eight glasses of water daily and incorporate water-rich foods like cucumbers, watermelon, and celery into your diet. Proper hydration helps flush out toxins and supports healthy skin regeneration.

4. Incorporate Anti-Inflammatory and Gut Health Ingredients into Your Diet
Inflammation plays a significant role in acne, contributing to redness and irritation. Certain foods contain natural anti-inflammatory properties that may help manage these symptoms:
- Turmeric is widely recognised for its ability to reduce inflammation, calm skin irritation and prevent acne flare-ups. [3]
- Ginger also offers anti-inflammatory benefits that may aid in reducing redness and irritation.
Maintaining a balanced gut microbiome is also essential, as an imbalance can contribute to systemic inflammation and impact skin health.[4] Incorporating certain foods into your diet may support a healthier microbiome; read 4 Ways to Improve Your Gut Health Naturally for more information on foods for gut health. Including these ingredients in your daily meals can help reduce inflammation and improve your skin!
5. Seaweed for Skin Benefits
Seaweed is a powerful, nutrient-packed superfood that can support skin health. Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, seaweed supplements help fight inflammation and improve overall skin health. Adding SeaQuo® Immune capsules to your routine can be an excellent way to benefit from seaweed’s skin health properties. These capsules contain fucoidan, a natural seaweed compound, with vitamin C and zinc. This combination supports gut health, skin hydration, and overall skin health - all critical factors for healthy, acne-free skin. More on the skin benefits of SeaQuo®’s seaweed can be found here: Our Skincare Secret: Glow from Within with Seaweed.

Achieving clear, acne-free skin doesn’t have to depend on harsh chemicals or costly treatments. You can support your skin's health from within by nourishing your body with the right foods, staying hydrated, and incorporating natural supplements like SeaQuo® Immune capsules. By following these five simple, natural steps, you’ll be on your way to clearer, healthier skin. If you are still having trouble, reach out to a natural health or integrative practitioner, as they can tailor a treatment specific to your needs.
Learn more about SeaQuo® skin supplement here.
References:
[1] Bagatin E, Freitas THP, Rivitti-Machado MC, Machado MCR, Ribeiro BM, Nunes S, Rocha MADD. Adult female acne: a guide to clinical practice. An Bras Dermatol. 2019 Jan-Feb;94(1):62-75. doi: 10.1590/abd1806-4841.20198203. Erratum in: An Bras Dermatol. 2019 Mar-Apr;94(2):255. doi: 10.1590/abd1806-4841.2019940202.. Machado MCR
[2] Smith, RN, Mann, NJ, Braue, A, Mäkeläinen, H, and Varigos, GA. The effect of a high-protein, low glycemic-load diet versus a conventional, high glycemic-load diet on biochemical parameters associated with acne vulgaris: a randomized, investigator-masked, controlled trial. J Am Acad Dermatol. (2007) 57:247–56. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2007.01.046
[3] Vollono L, Falconi M, Gaziano R, Iacovelli F, Dika E, Terracciano C, Bianchi L, Campione E. Potential of Curcumin in Skin Disorders. Nutrients. 2019 Sep 10;11(9):2169. doi: 10.3390/nu11092169. PMID: 31509968; PMCID: PMC6770633.
[4] Mahmud MR, Akter S, Tamanna SK, Mazumder L, Esti IZ, Banerjee S, Akter S, Hasan MR, Acharjee M, Hossain MS, Pirttilä AM. Impact of gut microbiome on skin health: gut-skin axis observed through the lenses of therapeutics and skin diseases. Gut Microbes. 2022 Jan-Dec;14(1):2096995. doi: 10.1080/19490976.2022.2096995. PMID: 35866234; PMCID: PMC9311318.