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Why carbs in your diet can give you acne

Dr. Michael Scannon and his team at Florida Westcoast Skin and Cancer Center in Tampa, FL, work regularly with patients who deal with conditions such as acne. In addition, he fields many questions patients might have about their skin. If you are learning about your risk of acne and other skin conditions, you may have questions about whether or not carbs in your diet may be causing your acne. Let’s dig in deeper to determine if the carbohydrates you are eating on a daily basis are the cause of your acne and skin issues.

What is acne, and who is at risk of developing it?

First, it’s essential to understand what acne is and what factors can contribute to one’s chance of developing it. Acne is a common problematic skin condition that affects people of all genders, ethnicities, and ages but is most common in teenagers and young adults. Acne normally occurs when the skin’s pores become blocked with oil, dead skin cells, or bacteria. This can cause pimples, blackheads, or whiteheads.

Acne is normally found on areas such as the face, neck, chest, back, and shoulders. Anyone can develop acne, but it is more common in people with oily skin or a family history of the condition. Acne is not just caused by dirt or poor hygiene alone.

Can carbs in your diet cause acne?

There’s no easy answer to whether or not carbs can directly cause acne. However, some research indicates that a high-carb diet may be linked to an increased risk of developing certain types of acne.

Certain carbs, such as those found in processed foods and sugary drinks, can cause a spike in blood sugar levels. This can increase insulin levels, which in turn has been connected with the production of sebum on the skin. Sebum is a unique type of oil produced by the skin and can clog pores, leading to breakouts.

In addition, carbs can cause inflammation throughout the body. This inflammation can lead to the development of pimples and other types of acne lesions.

Request more information from a skin care professional in your community

Talk to a dermatologist such as Dr. Michael Scannon of Florida Westcoast Skin and Cancer Center if you’re concerned about the role carbs may play in your acne troubles. He can help you determine if changing your diet, such as reducing your carb intake, may help improve your acne. In addition, he can recommend prescription-strength or over-the-counter acne products that can assist in clearing the skin and reducing one’s risk of acne scarring. Call 813-877-4811 to request an appointment today!

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