What foods can trigger acne breakouts?

             Written by: Monalisa Deka

18 September 2025

Acne breakouts are frustrating. Hormones, skin bacteria, and inflammation all play a role. What you eat can also influence acne. Let's discuss what foods can trigger acne.

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Foods like white bread, sugary drinks, cakes, and white rice raise blood sugar quickly. High blood sugar prompts insulin spikes. That can increase skin oil and inflammation, both can trigger acne.

Understand High-Glycemic Foods

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Some studies link milk (whole, low-fat, skim) with increased acne risk. Yogurt and cheese seem to have weaker or no consistent links.

Watch Your Dairy Intake

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Foods high in saturated fats, trans-fats, and added sugar (fast food, fried snacks, sweets) may promote acne. Sugary beverages also show an association with current acne in adults.

Limit Unhealthy Foods

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Everyone responds differently: genetics, age, sex, ethnicity, and overall diet matter. What causes acne in one person may not in another. Keep a food diary. Track what you eat and note any flare-ups.

Note Triggers Vary by Person

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Changes in diet may help reduce acne, but improvement takes time. Be consistent with healthy eating for several weeks. If acne is severe or not improving, consult a dermatologist.

Kind Reminder

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