Clear Skin, Naturally: Top Supplements and Topical Solutions

Acne is a common skin condition that can range from occasional breakouts to persistent, hormonally driven flare-ups. While conventional treatments such as prescription medications and topical solutions can be effective in managing acne, many people would prefer a more natural approach to support their skin health. By addressing internal factors like diet, gut health, and hormone balance alongside a targeted skincare routine, it is possible to promote clearer, healthier skin. 

Clear Skin Starts in the Gut 

Your skin is a reflection of what’s happening internally, so if you’re dealing with breakouts, your diet and gut health might be playing a role. Here’s what to focus on: 

• Anti-Inflammatory Foods: Acne breakouts are often prompted by inflammation, so load up on inflammation-reducing omega-3-rich foods like salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds. Turmeric and ginger are also fantastic anti-inflammatory additions. 

• Low-Glycemic Foods: Spikes in blood sugar can trigger excess oil production and breakouts. Manage blood sugar by choosing whole foods like leafy greens, berries, quinoa, and legumes over processed carbs. 

• Gut-Friendly Foods: Since gut health and skin health are so closely linked, incorporate probiotic-rich foods like sauerkraut, kimchi, and kefir. Prebiotic foods like garlic and onions also help keep the “good” gut bacteria happy and thriving. 

• Dairy & Sugar Caution: For some people, dairy (especially skim milk) and sugar can be major acne triggers. Experiment with reducing or eliminating them for a few weeks to see if your skin improves. 

Hormones & Acne: What You Need to Know 

If your breakouts seem to follow a monthly cycle, show up along your jawline, or worsen under stress, hormones could be the culprit. 

Key Hormones Involved in Acne

• Testosterone & Androgens: These hormones increase sebum (oil) production, leading to clogged pores and acne breakouts. 

• Estrogen & Progesterone: Imbalances between these two can trigger hormonal acne, especially before your period. 

• Cortisol (The Stress Hormone): Chronic stress spikes cortisol, which ramps up oil production and inflammation in the skin, two major acne triggers. 

• Insulin Spikes: High insulin levels following consumption of sugar and processed carbs can cause the skin to produce more oil and lead to acne flareups. 

How to Balance Your Hormones Naturally: 

• Support Liver Detox: Your liver helps process and eliminate excess hormones (like estrogen). Support it with cruciferous veggies (broccoli, cauliflower, kale), plenty of water, and nutrients like B vitamins and magnesium. 

• Healthy Fats: Avocados, nuts, and seeds support hormone production and help reduce inflammation for overall clearer, healthier skin. 

• Cut Back on Processed Foods: Focus on whole foods like lean meat, nuts and seeds, healthy fats, fiber-rich veggies, and low-glycemic fruits like apples & berries. Avoid refined carbs and sugar, which spike insulin and can worsen hormonal acne. 

• Prioritize Sleep & Stress Management: Poor sleep can throw off your hormone rhythms, increasing the presence of acne-related hormones like cortisol and insulin. Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep to support hormonal balance and skin repair as well as overall health and energy. 

Add Supplements to Nourish Your Skin from Within 

When diet alone isn’t enough to tackle acne at its source, certain supplements can give your skin a much-needed boost: 

• Zinc: Known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, zinc helps reduce redness and acne breakouts. 

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids : These healthy fats help calm inflammation and balance hormones. 

• Probiotics: A healthy gut means clearer skin. Probiotic supplements can help balance your gut microbiome and reduce acne flare-ups. 

• Vitamin A: Helps regulate skin cell turnover and reduce oil production (Caution: avoid high doses without medical supervision!). 

Here are some of our favorite combination herbal formulas: 

St. Francis Herb Farm Clear Glow is a targeted, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial formula that removes toxins and contains herbs that specifically address dermatological conditions, including acne, eczema, and psoriasis.

Bell Lifestyle Clear Skin II is a unique combination of fish oil and herbal nutrients that cleanses the blood and addresses systemic issues that may be causing or contributing to your acne. 

Topical Skincare: Keep It Simple & Effective 

Your skincare routine doesn’t have to be complicated. Stay focused on soothing and balancing your skin while the internal approaches outlined above have time to come into effect.  

Check out this collection for acne-prone skin from Derma-E: 

Derma E Anti-Acne Series - Acne Rebalancing Cream 

Derma E Anti-Acne Series - Acne Deep Pore Cleansing Wash 

Derma E Anti-Acne Series - Blemish Control Treatment Serum 

Treating acne naturally isn’t about quick fixes, it’s about creating a sustainable, healthy lifestyle that supports your skin from the inside out. By focusing on whole foods, the right supplements, and gentle skincare, you can give your skin what it needs to heal and thrive. 

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational purposes only and should not be considered as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition, dietary changes, or supplementation.