02/02/2026
Your skin responds to what you eat.
High sugar and dairy-heavy diets can activate hormonal pathways that directly influence acne development.
When foods that rapidly raise blood glucose are consumed, insulin levels increase. This stimulates IGF-1 and mTOR signalling, which promote sebaceous gland activity and accelerate keratinocyte proliferation. The downstream effects include:
- Increased sebum production
- Heightened inflammatory signalling
- Greater risk of follicular obstruction
- Increased likelihood of acne lesions
This does not mean that sugar or dairy will trigger acne in every individual. However, in acne-prone patients, these foods commonly act as metabolic and hormonal drivers.
Skin-supportive dietary strategies focus on:
Low glycaemic load carbohydrates, anti-inflammatory fatty acids (particularly omega-3s), adequate protein intake, high fibre intake, and optimising insulin sensitivity.
Acne should be understood as a systemic condition with cutaneous manifestations. Effective management requires addressing both topical factors and internal drivers, including nutrition, hormonal regulation, and inflammatory load.
Book a consultation through the link in our bio to get to the bottom of your skin concerns and start healing from the inside and out.