16/07/2025
Recently, a client shared her battle with acne—a journey many of us have embarked on, often armed with optimism, new skincare routines… and maybe a temporary ban on chocolate (let’s face it, willpower has its limits ). After a particularly stressful event, her skin flared up and refused to calm down. Cue frustration.
As a Pharmacist and Health & Wellness Coach, I know acne isn’t just about the surface. Your skin is like your body’s internal newsletter, sometimes broadcasting headlines you’d rather not read.
The Science
Acne is a complex beast. Here’s a snapshot of the forces at play:
• Bacteria likes to throw parties in oily hair follicles.
• Hormones: Insulin-like growth factors from sugary, high carb/dairy diets, androgens (precursor to hormones), and general hormonal imbalances crank up oil production—especially in adolescence, menopause, or stress.
• Genetics: Some people are born with an “inflammatory switch” that likes to stay on.
• Nutrient Deficiencies: Deficiencies in fat-soluble vitamins e.g. vitamin D, in particular, is an underrated champion for skin and immune balance.
It’s no wonder adult acne resists a quick fix—relapse is common if you don’t tackle the roots.
Wouldn’t it be great if stress-induced pimples could zap off with a pimple cream? Unfortunately, your skin is more honest than your best friend—it tells you immediately when your stress and inflammation “bucket” is overflowing.
What Actually Works?
1. Reduce Your Inflammation “Bucket”
Swap packaged foods and processed oils with whole foods and healthy fats (avocado, fish). F A clinical trial showed that 2,000 mg of omega-3s (EPA + DHA) significantly reduced acne severity, but timing and formulation matter!
2. Address Stress—No, Really
Stress management isn’t just new-age fluff. Breathwork, meditation, journaling, or a joyful activity can dial down inflammation. After all, your thoughts are chemical messengers. And remember, holding onto negative emotions is like inhaling poison and hoping your zits will disappear!
3. Eat Your Veggies! Target at least 660g (about 4–5 cups) of veggies and fruits daily
4. Smart Skincare Choices
• Non-inflammatory? Pimple patches with hydrocolloid tech can help—just avoid those loaded with unnecessary chemicals or mineral oil.
• Inflammatory Stage? Consider regular phototherapy sessions twice a week over 12 weeks were shown to reduce acne severity for over half of patients in a recent study.
5. Personalization = Real Results
No “one size fits all” here. Here’s my plug for my Anti-inflammatory Guide & Recipes (including a 2 week meal plan and delicious recipes), with a step-by-step guide on inflammatory foods, how to eliminate, reintroduce and personalise it to your unique self.
You can purchase it here: https://pharmacistedit.com/
Final Thoughts: And if you fumble with lifestyle changes (because chocolate is delicious), remember: progress beats perfection every time.
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References:
• Makrantonaki, E., Ganceviciene, R., & Zouboulis, C. (2011). An update on the role of the sebaceous gland in the pathogenesis of acne. Dermato-endocrinology, 3(1), 41–49. https://doi.org/10.4161/derm.3.1.13900
• Vasam, M., Korutla, S., & Bohara, R. A. (2023). Acne vulgaris: A review of the pathophysiology, treatment, and recent nanotechnology based advances. Biochemistry and biophysics reports, 36, 101578. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bbrep.2023.101578