|  | Diet Nutrition | Nutrition

Diet for Healing Pimple Scars

If you have ever suffered from acne, you know reminders of the outbreak often remain well after it has cleared. Thousand of topical treatments are available for the treatment of pimple scars to reduce the sign of past acne, but the cause of acne is usually internal, so to truly address the issue of scarring, you must have a plan that addresses your scarring from the inside out. Simple changes in your diet can effectively rid your skin of pimple scars for long-term results, rather than a quick fix.

  1. Zinc

    • According to the 2002 journal article "Evidence supporting zinc as an important antioxidant for skin" in the "International Journal of Dermatology," zinc naturally enhances the skin's ability to heal and can help in the generation of skin cells. As new skin cells reach the surface, the appearance of pimple scars will reduce. Zinc is contained in a variety of food, including peanuts, lean red meat, wheat germ, liver, egg yolk, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, herring, soybeans and oysters.

    Healthy Fats

    • If you have cut back on unhealthy fats, such as hydrogenated oils found in junk food, you are on the path to clear skin. All too often, people cut out all fats when trying to clear skin of pimple scars. In fact, according to the National Institutes of Health, healthy fats help give skin a healthy, glowing appearance and can also help reduce pimple scarring. Healthy fats to include in your diet include olive oil, organic flax oil and fish oil.

    Fiber

    • The National Institutes of Health also notes the link between proper digestion and a clear complexion. Diets high in fiber aid the digestion process and promote overall health, and therefore, clearer skin. Incorporate high-fiber foods, such as legumes (beans, split peas and lentils), whole grain breads, fruits, vegetables and bran. Foods high in fiber are also more filling, which will lessen the chances of you incorporating a lot of harmful foods into your diet.

    Water

    • Increasing your water intake can do wonders for your skin, even if you have never suffered from acne. According to the National Institutes of Health, water is a critical factor in the body's process of repairing skin tissue, as well as in the healing process. Aim to drink six to eight 8 oz. glasses per day. Increasing your fruit and vegetable intake will also help you increase the amount of water in your system, as these foods have high water content.

    What to Avoid

    • Now that you know what to eat to reduce pimple scarring, view the following list of foods to avoid, according to a 2006 journal by the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, which can promote acne and increase your risk for more scarring in the future:
      • Sugary foods
      • Refined carbohydrates
      • Dairy
      • Chocolate
      • Yeast (bread, beer ect.)
      • Coffee
      • Fried foods
      • Sodas and artificial sweeteners

Nutrition - Related Articles