I Have Rosacea – Here’s How I Ate My Way To Better Skin

“We were one of the first brands to talk about the skin microbiome and healing inflammation,” she said. “Over the last four years, though, we’ve seen the evolution of research into the gut-skin-brain axis. We’d always suspected that there was a link between what you eat and your skin but the exact mechanisms weren’t understood. While people observed the changes in their skin, dermatologists weren’t in favour of the theory as they couldn’t explain how it worked. Now, though, thanks to more recent studies, we can prove that an inflamed gut can translate into inflamed skin.”

Dr Drago also noted that there tends to be a link between digestive issues like IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) and SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth) and skin conditions. And that treatment of said condition can benefit the entire axis. “For example, if you take antibiotics for SIBO, you’ll likely experience relief from your rosacea symptoms, too.”

Foods that support your gut and your skin

While I was fascinated by these findings, I found them overwhelming. For a total beginner like me, how could I begin to make positive changes? I asked Dr Drago if I could “repair” or “cleanse” my gut. “Emptying everything is not the way, the idea is to care and support,” she told me. “Just like you take care of your garden–you’re not burning everything down and starting from scratch again.” Instead, Dr Drago recommended a simple approach.

“Eat 30 different nuts, fruits vegetables, cereals and spices per week,” she said. “The more diverse your food is, the more diverse your gut microbiome is going to be. Diversity, like in every ecosystem, breeds resilience and health.” To understand more, Dr Drago suggested I listen to The Gut Stuff podcast.

Another trusted friend, Dr Justine Hextall, consultant dermatologist at the Tarrant Street Clinic, is similarly passionate about understanding the relationship between the gut and the skin. “Alcohol and sugar are not great for the gut barrier,” she told me. “I’m not saying you can’t eat cake or have a drink, but it’s something to be mindful of. Instead, try and focus on complex foods, rainbow-coloured vegetables and fermented foods like kombucha, yoghurts and kefir, that feed your gut bacteria.” She also suggested eating within a window, noting that fasting can help support the good bacteria in your gut. “If you feel like you need a snack, stick to something simple.” Think yoghurt with blueberries and flaxseeds.