Glowing Skin Starts in the Gut: Here’s Why Your Microbiome Matters
When we think about skincare, we often think of cleansers, moisturizers, face masks, and having a solid morning and evening routine to care for our skin.
Right?
But that’s just the external viewpoint of skincare. Skin, as we know, is our largest organ—and it runs deeper than we think!
In the last decade, we’ve seen a growing research revealing that the connection between our gut and skin health is much stronger than we once believed.
If you’ve heard of the gut-brain axis, this is its equally important sister: the gut-skin axis! Let’s go skin-deep to understand the connection and how you can start supporting your skin beyond just choosing high-quality products.
Say Hello to Your Gut Microbiome
In recent years, the gut microbiome has been making headlines, and for good reason. We’re here to shed more light on what it actually is.
Your gut microbiome is made up of bacteria, fungi, and microorganisms that live along the lining of your gastrointestinal tract.
The health of your gut microbiome impacts everything from digestion to nutrient absorption to the production of vitamins that your body relies on. It plays a massive role in your overall wellness, and how you feel day-to-day.
But did you know it also affects the health of your skin?
How the Gut Gets Out of Balance...
A disrupted gut microbiome can stem from a lot of things; maybe from one too many sugary desserts, not properly managing your stress, relying on processed foods, or repeated use of antibiotics. All of these habits and lifestyle choices can lead to inflammation in the gut, and one of the first places it often shows up on is your face.
What Does Inflammation in the Skin Look Like?
It can appear as eczema, rosacea, or psoriasis. It can also mean stubborn breakouts that don’t seem to care how well you’re taking care of your skin, and it can even be more subtle signs like dullness, itchiness, and dryness.
And When the Gut Is in Harmony...
When your gut microbiome is balanced, your skin follows suit! Think of a naturally radiant, bright, glowing complexion. Fewer dark circles under your eyes, clear skin, and breakouts that heal quickly (sometimes without any help).
Want to support your skin even further? Care for your microbiome!
Everyday Ways to Nourish Your Gut—And Your Skin!
We have more influence over our gut health than we realize because it's shaped by our daily habits and lifestyle choices. When we start viewing food as clean, nourishing fuel that powers us through the day rather than just something quick or convenient, it becomes easier to understand how our choices affect not only our energy and mood but also the health of our skin. Supporting your gut also means experiencing more easeful digestion and making sure your body absorbs the nutrients it needs, which all adds up to looking and feeling your best, naturally.
If you're investing in high-quality skincare and taking the time to care for your skin every day, but still not seeing the results you want, it’s time to take a two-pronged approach and care for your skin from the inside too!
Stay Hydrated
We always say “drink water for your skin,” and we mean it! Bring a glass water bottle with you throughout the day so you can easily track your water intake. This way, you’ll never have an excuse for not getting your sips in. Staying hydrated helps your body flush out toxins, which is one of the first indicators of healthy, glowing, and firm skin.
Eat Less Processed Food
In today’s busy world, finding quick and nourishing meals can be a challenge but focusing on whole foods, rich in color, fiber, and seasonal ingredients, is a great place to start.
Try prepping over the weekend: cook healthy proteins, chop veggies and fruits for grab-and-go snacks, or batch-cook rice and grains. With whole foods at your fingertips, it’s easier to skip the drive-thru and stick to gut-friendly choices, even during your busiest weeks!
Limit Sugar
Ever notice tiny whiteheads pop up after a sugary drink or a few nights of indulging in dessert? That could be your gut (and skin) reacting to the sugar spike. Cutting back on refined sugar is one of the simplest ways to clear up your skin and let your glow shine through. Just to clarify fruit is not refined sugar! Fresh fruit offers natural sugars along with fiber and nutrients, which help support your skin and gut without causing the same negative effects as processed sugars.
Manage Stress
Let’s face it, life gets stressful. But tending to your mental well-being is essential. Long walks, quality time with friends, clearing your schedule, or trying mindfulness practices like journaling or meditation can calm the nervous system and support your gut, and yes, your skin, too.
While we love recommending products, routines, and holistic swaps, we also understand that the everyday choices you make, especially how you fuel your body, are key to vibrant, naturally healthy skin.
What’s one way you’re supporting your gut microbiome this week, and in turn, your skin? We’d love to hear from you in the comments!
Love,
Ashley & Honey Girl Organics