Acne is a common problem among teenagers as well as adults. Heredity, stress and hormones all influence the generation of inflamed hair follicles, which result in breakouts. While cleansing the face with mild glycerin soap and applying topical treatments such as tea tree oil or benzoyl peroxide can address blemishes, making dietary changes is almost always helpful.

1. Increase your consumption of antioxidant-rich foods, particularly a wide variety of colors of vegetables.
2. Include omega-3 fatty acids from foods like wild Alaskan salmon or freshly ground flaxseeds to help reduce and prevent inflammation. If regular consumption is not happening, consider a fish oil supplement for additional omega-3s.
3. Drink lots of water to keep the skin hydrated and healthy.
4. Limit processed and refined foods – the American Academy of Dermatology says that diet alone shouldn’t be relied upon to address acne, but that a low glycemic index diet and avoiding milk products may help.

And don’t be afraid to eat a piece of dark chocolate now and then – there is no link between chocolate and acne, and dark chocolate actually has antioxidant benefits!

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