Which ingredients in food worsen your skin and how to take care of the microbiota
When it’s talked about Skin careMost people immediately think of creams, facial cleansing or aesthetic treatments. But more and more experts are warning that what happens beneath the surface also plays a crucial role in your appearance and health. What affects the skin’s microbiota?
The feedingalong with rest, hydration and stress management, directly affects balance the skin. It’s not just about avoiding visible irritation, but also about supporting biological processes that regulate inflammation, sebum and the skin’s barrier function.
A key concept appears in this scenario: the microbiota of the skin. This group of microorganisms lives on the epidermis fulfills essential functions of defense and balanceand is sensitive to daily habits, especially diet.
Acne and rosacea, skin conditions that affect both men and women. Photo: Unsplash“Scientific evidence shows that diet regulates processes such as inflammation, sebum production and the quality of the skin barrier,” he explains. Tania GilSpecialist for Human Nutrition and Dietetics from the Ricart Medical Institute, which highlights the central role of Skin microbiota.
What is skin microbiota and why can it change your face?
To understand that Connection between nutrition and skinfirst it is necessary to know them Skin microbiota. This is a group of bacteria, fungi and other microorganisms that live on the skin and mucous membranes, form a dynamic ecosystem and are in constant interaction with the environment.
The Microbiota acts as an extension of the immune system. It protects against external influences, regulates the inflammatory response and helps maintain balance epidermis. When altered, the skin becomes more vulnerable and reactive.
Atopic dermatitis. Photo: Shutterstock.The imbalance of this flora can promote this Occurrence of acne, rosacea, dermatitis, eczema or persistent breakouts. According to experts, these changes do not always arise in the skin itself, but in internal processes that affect the skin.
The “gut-skin axis”: How your stomach can show up on your face
In addition to the skin’s microbiota, there is a direct connection to the intestines. This link, known as Gut-skin axisexplains how the state of the intestinal flora influences skin health and the occurrence of inflammatory diseases.
“Gut microorganisms produce metabolites that influence inflammation and immunity,” says Gil. Intestinal dysbiosis can cause skin to develop acne, RosaceaDermatitis, psoriasis or increased sensitivity.
The state of the intestinal flora influences the health of the skin and the occurrence of inflammatory diseases.Disturbances like SIBO (Bacterial overgrowth), leaky intestines or malabsorption problems alter the internal balance and promote systemic inflammatory processes. In these cases, the skin usually reacts with persistent breakouts, redness or recurring lesions.
Chronic constipation can also be reflected on the face. The buildup of toxins and associated inflammation results in dull, congested skin that is more prone to inflammatory acne.
What to Eat to Support Skin Microbiota and Reduce Inflammation
To take care of it Skin microbiotaExperts recommend a plant-based diet. Fruits, vegetables and whole grains provide fiber and bioactive compounds that promote bacterial balance and reduce inflammation.
Healthy fats and Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish, seeds and nuts. These nutrients help modulate the inflammatory response and strengthen the skin barrier.
A diet rich in vegetables and healthy fats protects the skin’s microbiota. Photo Shutterstock.Adequate supply of micronutrients such as zinc, selenium and antioxidant vitamins is crucial Skin regeneration. In some cases, nutritional supplementation may be useful, always under professional supervision.
In the opposite extreme case it is recommended Limit highly processed foods, simple sugars, fats and alcohol. “The basis should always be good nutrition; probiotics can accompany this, but not replace it,” explains Gil.