Lifestyle Changes to Support Acne Healing
We all know that acne is a reflection of what’s happening inside your body. And while there’s no magic wand to wave it all away, making some intentional lifestyle changes consistently over time can do wonders for your skin (and your overall health). Something that I avoided giving attention to for years but REALLY changed the game for my skin healing. Let’s jump right into it!
1. Get Serious About Sleep
We’ve all heard it: “Get your beauty sleep!” But this isn’t just an old wives’ tale. When you’re skimping on sleep, your body produces more cortisol (aka the stress hormone), which can trigger breakouts. Let alone the impact it has on all body systems. Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep each night. Bonus points if you create a calming bedtime routine - think no screens an hour before bed, a good book, and maybe even a magnesium supplement.
2. Balance Your Blood Sugar
Blood sugar balancing is HUGE when it comes to acne. Blood sugar spikes and crashes can wreak havoc on your hormones, so make sure to balance your meals with protein, healthy fats, and fiber. Instead of grabbing a sugary snack, try pairing an apple with some almond butter or enjoy a boiled egg with some veggies. Keeping your blood sugar steady can make a huge difference in your skin.
3. Hydrate HYDRATE HYDRATE
Many people really overlook this one when it comes to their skin because it sounds super simple…and it is! You’ve probably heard this a million times, but I promise, it’s not just a cliché. Your skin needs hydration to stay healthy and balanced. Drink plenty of water throughout the day and incorporate hydrating foods like cucumbers, watermelon, and leafy greens into your diet. Bonus points for adding electrolytes to your water which gives extra love to your adrenals too. Make sure to avoid brands with a lot of added sugars!
4. Move Your Body - But Don’t Overdo It
Exercise is fantastic for increasing blood flow/lymph flow and reducing stress, both of which help with acne healing. But overdoing it (especially with high-intensity workouts) can actually raise cortisol levels and trigger inflammation. Find movement that feels good for your body - think yoga, walking, or strength training. And don’t forget to cleanse your face post-workout to avoid sweat-induced breakouts!
5. Manage Stress
I can’t emphasize this one enough. This can be why many people don’t see the results they’re hoping for! Stress doesn’t just mess with your mind; it messes with your skin, too. Chronic stress can increase oil production, disrupt your hormones, and slow down your body’s healing process. Find what works for you to unwind - whether it’s journaling, meditation, deep breathing, or even a fun hobby like painting or gardening.
6. Eat with Intention
I’m not here to tell you to cut out your favorite foods (because life’s too short for that). But being mindful about your nutrition can help you figure out what works for your skin. Focus on whole, nutrient-dense foods like leafy greens, healthy fats, and quality proteins. Create a calming environment for your meals. Turn off screens, clear clutter from your eating space, and focus on enjoying your food. Aim to chew each bite 20–30 times. Pay attention to your hunger and fullness cues. Take a moment before eating to express gratitude for your food and the nourishment it provides!
7. Prioritize Consistent Meal Timing
When you skip meals, your blood sugar can spike and crash, triggering stress hormones like cortisol. These fluctuations can worsen inflammation and hormonal imbalances, both major contributors to acne. Aim to eat balanced meals every 3–4 hours, incorporating protein, healthy fats, and fiber to keep your energy steady and your skin happy.
8. Declutter Your Environment
A cluttered space can add to mental stress and affect your routine, which may indirectly affect your skin. Take some time to organize your living space, particularly your bedroom and bathroom, to create a calm and nurturing environment for your skin-healing journey. Your external space can make a huge impact on your healing journey.
MEDICAL DISCLAIMER - All content on this website is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for advice and recommendations provided by your healthcare provider.
