Sugars cross-link our collagen fibers or twist around each other, making it more difficult for our body to repair. Glucose and fructose also link the amino acids in collagen and elastin, causing glycation end products, or AGEs. In other words, sugar can age us, too. “Although this happens in many different organs—not just the skin—skin is somewhat more prone to this damage because the damage caused by AGEs is also stimulated by ultraviolet light,” Sarkar adds. From a weight-loss perspective, these foods offer little nutrition and can leave us feeling irritated and hungry. From a skin angle, Dr. Turegano says the uptick in insulin production impacts our skin cells and oil glands. This can cause our pores to become clogged and the surface of our skin to become oiler, leading to zits. “Rather, it is your skin barrier, made up of ceramides, lipids, and other proteins, that determines how well moisture is trapped within your skin. The best way to hydrate your skin is through using moisturizers, which replicate your skin’s natural barrier to trap moisture in,” says Dr. Lee. “Yes, some patients can see a direct reduction in acne inflammation very quickly. But some do not. Don’t give up. Changing your diet is a game of weeks and months, not hours and days,” Barnett continues. “So start with realistic expectations, make those changes, and enjoy a healthy lifestyle. Besides, being healthy will help you feel more beautiful, too.”
