Where did my core go? How does FOOD affect your skin (<- I NEED YOUR HELP).

Food is the BIGGEST determiner of skin issues!! Because I am a brand ambassador for skincare, people are always surprised when I suggest first that we look at their nutrition when they come to me with a skincare issue. The BEST thing you can do is a quick elimination diet to pinpoint exactly which category of food causes your issues, and then heal it from the inside out. If you have questions, I am totally happy to share more tips from my experience!

I swear by the Rodan and Fields products. Made a big difference in my skin. However, I think I am more prone to break outs when my caffeine consumption is high and water intake is down. Have a great day Janae!

Food definitely impacts the skin. My sister and I have had skin issues and started to wash our faces using oil (jojoba, avocado, etc. It is a trial and error to find which one works best for your skin) and adding essential oils to help with our personal skin needs. Since my sister and I have made this change, we have not had break outs like we used to. Sure, we get the occasional zit. When I have used an astringent, there is not the additional dirt being pulled out like it did when I used other products. It cleans my skin so much better.

I had to give up dairy 6 months ago because my little one has a milk protein allergy. I was hoping that a side effect of this diet would be clearer skin, but I noticed no difference on my skin. Though I’m rarely bloated which is nice. When I’m done breastfeeding, I’d like to go back to a topical retinoid like differin (which my derm prescribes). Made such a difference. Good luck!!

I’m a realtor! I’ve been doing it for a little over a year. My husband has a brokerage so he helps me out balancing it and have 3 little kids

I’ve always loved math and I remember telling my mother (and she remembers) when I was very, very young (definitely in elementary school), that “I just want to do math problems all day.” And basically that is what I do for my job now. I feel extremely blessed AND lucky :)

So glad you got to hang with that fun group at your Burn Bootcamp class. Great job on the strength training! My realtor is also one of my favorite people although we don’t hang out too often. She worked her butt of to get me my house and in total “We” have bought 3 places together (and my 3rd is my final forever home! :)).

Janae- I have heard from friends before about dairy being the culprit for their breakouts, so it definitely could be a factor for you! For me personally, a breakout trigger is caffeine (if I drink it excessively:). I know you don’t drink coffee, but maybe if you are getting a good amount from other sources, (diet coke, chocolate, or even gels?) it’s something to look into as well? Other ideas: dehydration, sugar, HORMONES (I am sure that is on your radar already, but for me that has always been a huge factor!), and stress!
** Also just wanted to note, that while looking into possible food triggers is a great first line of investigation, sometimes it could be something more–I am only saying this because in the case of both my sister and husband, they both had serious skin issues recently that everyone was quick to blame on their diets, (but I suspected food was not the sole cause:) …and they both ended up having different infections instead! I was so grateful they both were able to get diagnosed and treated <3
Going the natural, food based healing route can be valid in many situations, but trust your instincts if you ever wonder if there could be another cause!
Best of luck getting to the bottom of it; I have been there done that with the skin issues for many years… and it can be frustrating and disheartening, but I do hope you figure it out <3

I highly recommend reading the book WomanCode!!!! It talks about the importance of balancing your life to sync with your cycle, and how to use food to heal your body! I think all woman should read it!!!!

https://www.amazon.com/WomanCode-Perfect-Amplify-Fertility-Supercharge/dp/006213079X

Food is such a huge factor when it comes to skin! I did the whole30 and when you reintroduce foods back into your diet, you see what they do to your body. I know sugar is a huge one and so is dairy. I would try out the whole30…after your race, and see if you can find out from doing that!

Hope you have a wonderful run and day!

Skincare is an odd bird. I don’t like using anything that has chemicals (e.g. Rodan and Fields) bc I think like medication that is treating the symptoms of the problem, not the problem. If it is something you eat (I am less inclined to think dairy but more food dyes, preservatives), then that is the problem that can be treated. It is possible that your dermatologist will recommend both how to treat the problem and the symptom, but you don’t have to do both. For my skin if I forget to wash my face, even for a few hours, after working up a sweat, I start to breakout.

My favorite type of pasta is homemade! But since I don’t make it, a close second to being in Italy is buying the soft refrigerated pastas at the grocery store that only take 2-3 minutes to cook (unlike 10 minutes for the hard crunchy dry boxed pasta). Soooooo delicious.

I wanted to be a teacher, and have worked with them in Education Technology Sales, but man the sacrifice and hard work for basic wages….they really are heroes!

First, way to go with your abs!

Alrighty, yes food matters. Looks like you have sleep and exercise down. Sugar and dairy and wheat/ flour are typically not helpful; and it’s probably the case here. This is well documented for public consumption. I think you know all of this, but I’m going to write in anyway. There is a lot to think about with commercially produced food and baked goods, mmmhmmm. For example, ghee and … lief fat …. are so much better than canola oil, coconut oil, etc. My grandma knew this. Of course back then butchers broke down the animals in the shop. However, what do you think restaurants and bakeries (incl. grocery stores) are using? (Hint: profit margin in king). You run by those rural areas… any farms?

Hormones matter so hopefully your progesterone is good. If you can do a check, it could be good – data is good and you are doing your own nails now, $$. You didn’t mention birth control in a while, so it’s hard to say what impact it is having on the hormone sitch.

I know, you’re all excited about the treats you can eat because you’re doing an ultra and not a marathon, yada yada. Did you put almond butter in your last sandwich? You know peanuts are not nuts, right? (It’s documented.) However, I don’t recall this sitch during the sub-3 marathon time. So many good things came then – the bun, the face. What really matters? 7 cups of leafy greens/ day & quality protein & quality carbs and fat to move it all along – in %’s working for you.

Consistency with food matters – how about a 30 day challenge? Nailing this sooner rather than later would be really good. You can do it, yes, yes, yes!! Go, go, go!!

My sister had this problem in her late twenties. She tried giving up sugar and dairy and a million other things, but nothing worked for her. In the end, her nutritionist friend recommended she try a B Complex vitamin. Funny enough, that was what did the trick.

Oh! You know I wrote this before – Women (or Woman) Code by Alisa Vitti. Really, if you’re going to challenge yourself, might as well do it flo style.

Get synced, get yin and get your fem flow working FOR you/ WITH you. The good news is, you can do this self-serve.

Yes, the face is telling you a lot (it’s probably growling). He!

We all are affected by food and stress differently. I feel I eat ok overall and never had acne issues….when I am stressed I eat horribly and instantly gain 5 pounds on my thighs. However, like I said we are different….my daughter eats ok and when she is stressed she breaks out with acne something awful….who knows?

I have had trouble with cystic acne and tried everything, even medications. The thing that worked the best was cutting dairy. Even now if I have dairy I will have at least two zits when I wake up the next day.

Food can definitely be a big trigger for skin issues!! I started taking a vitamin that’s supposed to help with hair, skin, and nails (I use the CareOf vitamin service) and I swear it’s made a difference. I don’t really consume any dairy except for cheese and small amounts of butter, and I think that plays a factor as well. Honestly, my skin is so unpredictable, but about a month ago, I started using COSRX products (I found them on Amazon) and they are great. I think between those products, the vitamins, and drinking a ton of water, I can keep my skin under control (somewhat anyway). I hope the dermatologist can help you!
Can I just tell you how glad I am that I bought my treadmill? NordicTrack really knows what they are doing – I am hooked on these iFit workouts that give me pretty views and interesting runs with inclines and declines and speed changes. I mean, it’s still not as great as running outside, but I’ve never enjoyed a treadmill this much.

When I was Brooke’s age I wanted to be a teacher, and then for years didn’t want to. Guess what I’m doing now?? And I’ve always wanted to write!

I find sugar does affect my skin, but dairy doesn’t . . . but I’ve never had any other problems with dairy, so I think I just handle it well. The main contributors to skin problems for me and stress and hormones. I wonder if all the running affects it, because you’re probably sweating for a longer time and in harsh weather? Wish I could be of more help! Hopefully the dermatologist will be able to help. Skin issues are SO frustrating.

Your salad looks AMAZING.

I’m starting to cramp up. Please review my comments because none of this is new here. I try. (I am thrilled to see someone else mentioned Woman Code above. Woohoo!)

Okay, did you have the birthday soup of mussels and kombu? I’m thinking no. I’m thinking those micronutrients didn’t go in and you ran 33 miles. What fat does Kneaders use? Do they disclose? Due diligence? (see baked goods comments above, pls.)

Over and out.

Dairy makes me break out and/or gives me hives on the lower half of my face. While I love cheese, there are enough alternatives that I choose to go with instead of dairy. (I could deal with an occasional pimple but a rash or hives are a no go).

Sugar can also trigger skin conditions and for those with auto immune deficiencies, gluten can trigger flare ups. Often times after a few months of not having the offender you can have it occasionally in small doses. (not everyone can, it’s pretty much what you can individually tolerate).

My doctor had me avoid certain foods and use supplements which helped me a lot. Some I have been able to add back in an some are occasional.

I used to break out fairly often, and I know SOMETIMES food is the culprit (if I eat a pretty high fat or high sugar meal/dessert, I can almost always count on a zit or two popping up the next day or so); however, I actually noticed that my skin problems essentially cleared up when I stopped putting on foundation/powder. Not sure if it was the brand, the applicators/brushes I used (aka not cleaning them often enough), or just the products clog my pores, but I rarely get breakouts now. I use just a milk soap cleanser, witch hazel for toning, and a face moisturizer (oil free) daily. I used to focus on acne-prone products, but those would actually just dry out my skin and cause MORE breakouts. Anyway, now I usually just get a breakout if my stress level is too high (I get a cystic one either on my forehead or neck..eww) or as mentioned above about the high fat/high sugar foods every so often. I never break out from dairy, and I eat a TON of that daily..like 4-5 servings a day haha, so I know that is not an issue for me, but I know it can be for some.

In terms of pasta, my favorite is gnocchi. I just LOVE the big, chewy dumpling-like pieces in a marinara sauce :)

As a kid, I wanted to be either a doctor or a teacher (I had both in my family). I ended up becoming a high school English teacher (after briefly dabbling in communications/non-profit work) and it’s the best career decision I’ve made.

Read this blog… https://agutsygirl.com. She talks a lot about the gut/skin link. And she is fun to read period.

chocolate can break me out… as cliche as it sounds, water makes everything better (for so many reasons). :D

That photo bus is SO CUTE. I love it!

Burn Boot Camp–I really love it. In the fall I paid $99 for their 6 week bootcamp intro and really REALLY loved it but got disheartened when I realized I couldn’t afford to be a member. If the professional shift I am hoping (and–to be honest–praying in the only way I can pray, given my belief system) for happens, since I have a free REGULAR gym membership with the Les Mills classes I teach, I hope I will actually be able to afford Burn. I felt GREAT going there about 3 times per week, and if I could consistently do a core day, an upper body day, and a legs day–in and out in 45 minutes and having a little break from a traditional gym–man I would love that.

I know that being ‘restrictive’ and staying away from whole categories of food *can* lead to imbalanced thinking about nutrition, but I will say that in times when I have done a whole 30–stayed away from all processed sugar (and focused on more vegetables and a bit less fruit), stayed away from all dairy–my skin has simply glowed. I tend to have good skin to begin with (I have bad genes in other ways but GREAT genes when it comes to mostly-clear, youthful skin that makes me look a lot younger than I am…), but I think there is something to staying away from mass-processed dairy–substituting “milk” for “almond milk” (or another alternative type…) when the need calls for it and having SOME high quality full-fat cheese (like triple creme brie…or really good gorgonzola…or sharp sharp cheddar from grass-fed cows) just every now and then instead of the VERY cheaply made mozzarella and shredded tex mex blends that we get so inexpensively at the grocery store (but that are SO YUMMY…I know…). And I know that, for me, when my diet tends to be more carb-heavy I find myself with pimples more often (and the likelihood of a HIGH carb diet for me tends to parallel times when my life feels more high-stress and high-anxiety, so which is MORE the culprit…I don’t know). And that’s not fun.

I don’t know. Everyone’s biochemistry is tweaked a little bit differently, and I am not a doctor so I can’t REALLY say. I do know that months where I stayed away from dairy and refined sugars helped a lot.

Anyhow–work beckons! I hope your double-digit run was really solid, and that at least the end of it brought you even closer to “I am ready!!!” :)

I feel like even though people always say food is a factor, sometimes it is hormonal and is best treated by a prescription. I have had good luck with topical medications (I also didn’t want to take any pills for it), especially when I also use a Clarisonic. I also try to use very gentle cleansers— anything from the drugstore that is supposed to treat acne is usually an issue for me. I use cetaphil, cerave, and eucerin usually. Also wearing sunscreen during the day weirdly helps! I still struggle with cysts but this is what has helped for me. Hope the doctor can help and thank you for being honest, sometimes it seems like I am the only one who still has acne. You are beautiful with or without!

Dairy definitely affects my skin, as does sugar. It got some better when I went gluten-free for other health reasons. Also, a long time ago I just quit wearing makeup at all–concealer was irritating my eyes, ditto eye makeup, and aside from a brief stint with Bare Minerals, nothing really cleared or covered my breakouts. So I quit wearing makeup, and I know this sounds gross, but I stopped trying all kinds of different cleansers and moisturizers and masks and toners. I washed with just warm water, and didn’t need to use any moisturizers. My skin calmed down a lot, and it’s been about ten years and I haven’t had a serious breakout in that time. I occasionally use Olay Sensitive Face wash when I feel really gross and sweaty, or I’ve been around a lot of dirt in the garden. I am 45 and am told I look like I’m in my 30s and too young to have an 18 year old kid! :D The only products I use are Olay Sensitive SPF moisturizer (daytime) and Olay Night Effects (when I remember), aside from the face wash. IME, the fewer products the better.

Skye is so funny! Great job getting in all your miles indoors. It’s been super cold here in Colorado too and I am so missing being outside, and so are my kids!

I am there with you abput skin problems, ever since I had my daughter ten months ago my chin keeps breaking out and nothing is helping! It’s so frustrating, I hope you find something that helps. Also it only looks bad to you, the rest of us don’t notice it as much.

Have a great day!

Definitely agree that food is a huge factor in the health of your skin and agree with everyone who recommends an elimination diet. There is likely something you are eating that is irritating you. Some common culprits are sugar, wheat, gluten, dairy, and eggs (but some people also have more obscure irritants like mango, almonds, etc). I’d start with cutting those out one at a time and see if you experience any relief.
I also highly recommend salicylic acid. Since I started using it regularly at night, I’ve seen great improvement in my skin. I also have my teenager use it and when he does, it works wonders on his acne.

I’m a realtor in the Washington, DC area. Have been since 2005! Love it!

I started getting acne when I was in 2nd grade til I was in my thirties. I tried everything. It was so frustrating. I finally went to a dermatologist when I was in college. He told me to use Purpose cleanser (it is oil free, fragrance free), then use Witch Hazel for a toner, then use Purpose moisturizer (it is oil free, fragrance free). I have used these 3 products for about 25 years now. I swear by the Witch Hazel. It kinda smells, but after using it a while, you don’t notice it.

Bananas and milk, right? How did it become a thing? Next level here. This is part of a longer article (link provided) I had in my browser for me and I’m sharing it because your blog matters. There is so much to be aware of. Here’s a whole thing:

Bananas and Milk
Though commonly eaten together, bananas and milk are challenging to digest together because their qualities are so different.

Bananas are heating while milk is cooling. That alone is problematic.

Further, bananas become sour as they break down. So now our digestive fire has to process a sour substance and milk at the same time. Ever added a squeeze of lemon to milk? Or maybe you’ve poured a little milk into a tangy, fruity tea… only to watch it curdle instantly? What happens to these mismatched foods in the digestive tract is not much different. When bananas and milk are eaten together, their opposing qualities tend to smother the digestive fire and can disrupt the balance of intestinal flora, which results in the creation of toxins. This combination also frequently causes congestion, colds, coughs, allergies, hives, and rashes.2 A similar situation arises when we combine any sour fruit with milk.3

https://www.banyanbotanicals.com/info/ayurvedic-living/living-ayurveda/diet/ayurvedic-food-combining/

I was in the same place you are with your skin in regards to breakouts. I bought all natural this and that, exfoliators, special soaps, lotions, masks, ointments, vitamins to help with my skin, etc and the one thing that cleared it up was giving up candy. It still makes me want to cry some days. I haven’t given up all sugar and indulge in a homemade cookie bar here and there (eh, daily for the last 3 weeks :)), but giving up candy and perhaps eating cleaner also has helped a ton! I’m also not eating out several times a week anymore, but maybe once or twice and I’m eating a ton more veggies and plant based proteins.
As far as pastas; I think homemade mac and cheese will always be my fav :) We have a recipe from my MIL that my kids love also so it’s a no brainer!
I think about what I want to be when I grow up almost daily! A teacher, PT, nurse, trainer, Dr, etc …. only problem is I lack motivation and I don’t like school!
Have a great day!

I am sure diet probably affects skin but I have a hard time giving up delicious foods! I have noticed different products and time of month contribute to my breakouts. During my first pregnancy I changed my skincare regime and one item that I love and continue to use is the Belli anti-blemish face wash.

I had the same problem with my lazy core! The thing that really helped was going to pilates class AFTER spin class. So I realized that I rely on my legs and quads to do everything and my core takes a break. But when my legs were already tired after spinning, I could tell when I was trying to cheat, and really needed those abs. Maybe doing a few pilates moves (especially pike, hundreds, and double-leg stretch) after your runs could help you find those abs….plank is great, but it does involve your legs in a way that encourages cheating.

I used to take antibiotics for my acne back when I was younger, and they helped, but had some negative side effects. I realized that there are topical antibiotic gels you can use that are just as effective and don’t require taking any pills. They might be worth asking your dermatologist about, and they really worked well for me.

I knew in 5th grade I wanted to be a teacher and coach and here I am doing what I love!

For my skin I always tend to breakout more when I am about to start my period or when I eat more sugar than normal. When I wash my face right after I run, hydrate hydrate hydrate, wash diligently at night and in the morning, I usually do better. A friend of mine introduced me to Skin Script Raspberry Refining Cleanser and it has been a life saver. Since I was a teenager I have tried so many different things (even high end like Proactive) and nothing worked. This has been the best for me. She also gave me some toning pads to go along with it. It can dry out my skin so I just use it at night and I’ve noticed the biggest difference. https://www.skinscriptrx.com/product/blemish-control-cleanser-with-2-salicylic-2-glycolic-with-tea-tree/

Favorite pasta…..all of them !!! I am not the norm, but food effects my skin terribly !! But I have atopic dermatitis, which is a form if eczema. After many creams, prescriptions, supplements, and the worst yet steroid shots. I finally got fed up, and stoped listening to Dr’s tell me food was not related. I cut out sugar (ouch), dairy and basically went to an anti-inflammatory diet. It took months for the rashes & itching to settle down and go away, but I have not used 1 cream, gotten any shots or used any of the old supplements. I’m currently taking nothing. So far, keeping things very much in control by anti-flam foods and Eucerin excema lotion. That’s it. Clear good skin at the since then. Food also played a big part in a friends skin (acne) too. So my opinion is it very much plays a role. It’s trial and error for everyone since we’re all different but it doesn’t hurt to play around with foods. There are even certain fruits and veggies I can’t have. And Green Tea is supposed to be good for skin, but I had a terrible reaction to it !!!!! Really awful one. Strange stuff, but I log it all on paper, my have and can’t have foods. Good luck to you, I hope you find results in switching food around.

The biggest thing I found that was negatively affecting my skin was over-drying with harsh skin care products. It was like a vicious cycle. I thought it was hormone related, but my kids are now 5 and 7 so not sure if it was that. Once I started using a product line more geared towards hydration I noticed a big change. I am 2 years in, and barely have any breakouts anymore. I used to have at least 5 pimples at any given time and HAD to wear makeup if I was going out. Now I feel comfortable in my own skin. If you want to try samples (I am now a consultant for Beautycounter because I believe in their products and mission) just let me know. Good luck with the upcoming long runs! I don’t envy those snowy runs…

When I did Whole30, my skin was AMAZING…I’m not sure if it was the no sugar or no dairy or just not eating any processed foods – or a combination of all of those things…but I’d suggest cutting out those things, then slowly adding each back in and pay attention to how your skin reacts :)

I don’t think I can pick a favorite pasta – it’s all wonderful haha. My favorite pasta dishes that I’ve ever had are from Wild Olive in Charleston, SC, and The Copper Onion in downtown SLC <3 I wanted to be a doctor when I grew up…I decided that I wasn't a huge fan of blood and I never would have made it through a surgical rotation, so I went for my DPT instead of MD. I'll graduate with my clinical doctorate in less than 3 months and then start my residency in Neurology :)

Also – you've inspired me to want to try Burn Bootcamp – I'm going to have to see if there are any in SLC :)

Food is such a huge determiner in my complexion! I have also been using a Clarisonic https://www.amazon.com/Clarisonic-Mia-Sonic-Cleansing-System/dp/B005YB36O2 with either Cerave or Cetaphil per my dermatologist and that has really cleared up a lot of my issues! My acne is also definitely hormone related and was always worse when I was pregnant or breast feeding.

I have to eat gluten free so any good gluten free pasta is my jam :)

I knew I wanted to teach when I was about 10 or so, but I never thought I would be teaching high schoolers. I didn’t change my major until about a year into my undergraduate but now I’m so glad that I did and I couldn’t imagine teaching littles!

Hi HRG!
I rarely comment but I too have acne. I really appreciated France’s comments. She sounds like a real doctor and I will be looking at her links! As far as Christy’s advice goes, ignore it, she sounds like someone who just wants to attack you, not a real doctor. I hope your trip to the dermatologist is helpful! I love reading your blog! It is how I start my day! Thanks for being real and sharing the good and the hard stuff in life!

My dermatologist recommended starting with neutrogena acne face wash. She said it’s mild & non drying. She also recommended following it with a benzoyl peroxide spot treatment. Good luck Janae!

So there actually isn’t a lot of good, high quality evidence that food affects your skin. There are a lot of anecdotal reports from people that cutting out this or that helped their acne but it’s never been proven in studies. I suggest waiting until you see your dermatologist and asking them!! They went to school for 15 years for skin … better advice than someone selling skin care products. Typically initial topical treatments for someone wanting to avoid retinoids due to potential pregnancy would be benzoyl peroxide plus or minus a topical antibiotic. I have terrible adult acne as well so I feel your pain.

Yes, yes. https://www.shecares.com/hormones/estrogen/about

This link is provided to show something I’m not sure many are aware of, amiright? Did you see this in the hormone test kit or the doctor’s office?

I hope the link provides the graph at the top of the page I’m seeing. MEANINGFUL? So often, if we look at hormone cycles it’s in 30 day increments, approx. How about over a LIFETIME? The graph shows climbing estrogen levels from 20 through 30-40; then the level of and decline from 50 through 60. Cpt Obviou: So, as a 33 yo, you’re climbing inside.

My son is struggling with this right now, and sugar and dairy are his #1 culprits. Ice cream is a recipe for disaster. My skin triggers are more hormonal-I’m in that lovely age where the wrinkles are starting but monthly breakouts still happen. ? not cool! But definitely diet is a huge factor. Good luck.

My friend is an aesthetician and she recommends avoiding dairy as well as iodized salt!

* miles pile on-sorry!!

I have nothing to say about the acne other than i’ve been “washing” and moisturizing my face with argan oil with 20 drops of tea tree oil and lavendar (in the “wash”) and 20 drops of lavendar and frankincense in the “moisturizer”. I got a bottle on Amazon and once you get it you can take a survey for a second bottle of full size argan oil. It’s organic and got great reviews. Also, seeing the picture of Brooke’s room – i would love to see a full house tour of the new place!!

Look at the blog YoungHouseLove. She uses apple cider vinegar and coconut oil on her skin and swears by it clearing up her face. Many others who have tried it based on what she recommended have said it cleared their skin too. I think she just rubs it on with a cotton ball…but I would check her blog for the deets.

Dairy. Sigh. My daughter, my son, and myself all have issues with our skin breaking out when we eat dairy. It doesn’t cause any digestive issues, but makes a mess of our skin. As long as we avoid it completely, we have crystal clear skin. Luckily, sugar seems to be okay for my skin ;) Sorry that you’re dealing with this. I had really bad skin as a teenager (and ended up going on Accutane [don’t recommend]) and even now if I get a breakout, I get so hypersensitive about it because it takes me back to those insecure teenage years.

I had awful cystic acne when I went off birth control, during my pregnancy and even postpartum once done with breastfeeding. It looked exactly like yours. I had tried the antibiotics and differin gel prescription from a dermatologist, changing face washes, changing moisturizers, “natural” products, mineral sunscreen, no sunscreen, etc etc. None of that worked. I randomly tried the CVS skin+pharmacy glycolic acid face wash (pink bottle) to help exfoliate my skin because the gritty scrubs just made my skin peel on top of break out. I figured I couldn’t lose because it’s a relatively cheap face wash and I knew I wasn’t exfoliating my skin correctly. I started over the summer doing it at night since it can make your face more sensitive to the sun – so wear sunscreen! And I have to say that now I use it 1-2 times a week and no more cystic acne on my cheeks! Literally none. Not even during my period. Oh and if you decide to try it out, let the girl who waxes your eyebrows know. Glycolic acid can make your skin more sensitive to waxing. And I think they prefer you not to wax if you are using it *I think*. I chose to stop waxing my eyebrows (pluck instead) because I didn’t want to look more into it. But I did read that good places will just do plucking for you instead of waxing – so just ask your girl!

Hi Janae! I struggled with adult acne for awhile and the best advice I got from my sister (who is a PA at a dermatology/plastics skin center) is to always always always wash your face immediately after a run/working out. I keep Cera Ve or Cetaphil makeup wipes with me in case I can’t wash my face right after a run. Not sure if you do this but I also try to never run with any face makeup on. I also use two topical creams- Aczone and Epiduo forte (Differin works great too) which I swear by but I understand not wanting to use prescription topicals if you may want to get pregnant. I know you can’t use retinol based products if that’s the case but Aczone should be fine! My sister also recommended always using a gentle cleanser like Cera Ve or Cetaphil as well as a moisturizer even if you are not feeling dry. Putting on any kind of oil (I had friend’s suggest vitamin E and coconut oil) WILL most likely clog your pores in my experience. I just can’t think that it’s all diet based! Sure sugar could be playing a role but I see you post plenty of healthy food too :) Best wishes!

I honestly found that food made no difference to my skin. I went to a bunch of dermatologist and went on accutane twice. The doctor I worked with for the second round was a genius, and I still see her regularly. After accutane I got some laser treatments to fix the ice pick scars, and now I can finally not live behind extra thick concealer. I still take spironolactone, which has prevented any further acne along with a retin-a and another acne cream.

I personally don’t think food has much of an impact on skin, especially since yours is on your cheeks. Good luck with your appointment. My advice is don’t let the doctor rush your appointment and do not leave without some sort of prescription. I think too many derms don’t take acne seriously because it is “cosmetic” but what is cosmetic to them severely impacts our self esteem.

Hormone imbalance caused my acne; as soon as I got my hormones balanced (gained some weight and reduced intensive exercise for a bit) my acne disappeared. I eat sugar, dairy, and gluten currently and my skin has never been better. I’m wondering if the volume of your running is throwing your hormones a bit out of balance causing your skin issues.

Curology. It’s magic. https://curology.com/

I doubt your diet is the culprit. After I weaned my second baby, my skin revolted and the dermatologist said it can happen with babies and hormones. Luckily, there are lots of meds to fix and the fix can be faster in adults. Not what you want to go through as an adult! Good luck!

So many comments already – I have no idea how you will decide! BUT, do try to eliminate dairy from your diet just for a short time period and see the results, if any. Certainly there could be a lot of culprits, but when I gave up dairy I immediately noticed two things: better skin and better digestion. (i.e. no more immediate need for a port-a-potty while running). Worth a try, right?

Also, I can totally relate to your core story. I went to a physical therapist when I was having some hip issues. He stated it could be because of a need to strengthen my glutes. I lay on my stomach and he told me to lift my leg, first by tightening my glutes and then using my leg. I had NO glute strength at all. Ha!

That picture of Brooke’s classroom is adorable!

I know that food can play a huge role, but I also don’t think it is realistic to eliminate those foods forever just to keep your skin under control. My son struggles with terrible acne and when he was on a strict diet for wrestling weight cuts (written by a nutritionist) his skin calmed way down, but that type of eating long term wasn’t realistic, especially for a teenager.
We went through a million different skin care routines/creams for years and finally have found one that has worked consistently for about 6 months. It is Clindamycin and Benzoyl Peroxide Topical Gel. It can be kind of expensive depending on insurance coverage but we found that Good Rx has a pretty good price and so far he hasn’t noticed any negative side effects. Might be worth asking about…

Hey girl! I’m so sorry about your skin issues – it’s so annoying. While I think a lot of the above suggestions and experiences are insightful and interesting, I would say: trust your doctor and yourself! Maybe it’s diet related, maybe not. Maybe it’s diet related but with your history of disordered eating (like me) cutting out whole food groups isn’t a good idea so you have to take another route. Maybe it’s hormonal. Maybe it’s a combo of many things! I think there are many possible solutions to healing your skin and the best one will be the one that works for your particular skin within the constraints that are particular to your life! I’ve tried cutting out food groups before but for me personally it triggers my ED brain so doesn’t work for me individually. I’ve tried topical ointments from the dermo – Epiduo and Differin and different times – and both worked for me when I used them. Birth control also helped my skin when I was on it. Today I use Neutrogena Oil Free Acne wash most nights and then follow up with face oils (Jojoba and Rosehip Seed) or an anti-aging cream that has some retinol in it. Basically, this is all to say that different things have worked for me at different times, and I hope you’re able to find the best solution for YOU! :)

Hi, what does your blonde Ironwoman buddy, Josie, eat and do other than rock it with you? (I asked this before and don’t recall seeing the information.) As I recall, her skin looks terrific and she has/ had a low injury rate. Come to think of it, how was her diet/ exercise/ sleep at the time of her most recent set back? What about the rest of your fast pack? They don’t do bananas and milk, right? Your AZ brother’s face looks good, but he didn’t share what he’s eating (also, he’s male, but he is closely related). The other person I’m thinking of for diet is Gwen Jorgensen. I mean, she vlogs it! I know you said you don’t have the mileage she does. However, IMO you might not require the VOLUME of food she consumes but you could take her menu and SCALE it to your miles. Also, I think she takes commercial yogurt (?) and it might be a no, no; she’s just getting away with it. But you wouldn’t copy her spoonful, for spoonful, right?

You know, you have a special chiro. and an exercise coach, what about a special nutritionist? We know you’re doing better in a lot of ways than prior years and, obviously, you want to take it to the next level. (We want you to, too.) I think a nutritionist with related experience would take your mileage, hormone tests and develop a plan factoring in your climbing (attempting to climb) estrogen levels. Its like, what supports getting estrogen to the level it needs to get to? It’s like, we know iron (and vitamin B) and protein support hormones, right? Right. So, there’s a good start line.

You and your crowd are upper level for exercise, so I think all the readers here could benefit from more information from y’all – from those who are rocking it! I’m totally looking forward to you sharing more on this journey. It’s like we love the WEEKLY RECAP of miles and workout on Sundays; so, how about a cheek recap too? Boom, boom, boom, let me hear you say hey yo, hey yo!

There are so many comments so mine might get lost in this sea. But here it is anyway.
1st: let’s just say this – genetics plays a role. I have friends (and my two sisters) who literally NEVER wash their face and their skin is flawless. Now, my skin isn’t terrible, but I definitely always have a zit or two. But there are humans who do nothing and there are no consequences. So you could be eliminating allthethings and trying everything and it is just harder for you. which is lame.
2nd: speaking of eliminating things, I do think there are times when it has proven to help and certain foods can cause problems. But no ONE thing does it for everyone, as you can see by the comments. So unless you have a doctor recommend it, I don’t think you should eliminate foods. One person can eat gluten/diary/sugar no problem, others react. And with a past of disordered eating, I would tread lightly with that department.
3rd: Your diet HASN’T changed recently. So maybe your diet isn’t it? Yes you eat sugar, but you eat SO many fruit and veggies and healthy stuff. I mean, it could be. But look at what HAS changed since you have been having this problem. I know, for me, that I break out when hormones (hello period) change or when I am stressed. But even if it isn’t because of your period, your hormones are probably different because you had a baby, because you are older, because you are running more.
4th: You are freaking beautiful. I see you in person and not once have I ever even noticed this “problem”. But I also get it, when you are living with is and see it every day you want to take control and do something to help it so you can literally feel comfortable in your own skin. I know you are seeing a dermatologist, but Lisa (Skin Boss is her IG name) works out of platinum studio and she is amazing. Like lives and breathes esthetician/skin stuff. I think she is hard to get into, but she even does online consults, I believe.
Love you girl! Good luck!

I used to have really bad breakouts and I tried topical cortisones etc which worked but dried my skin out. I find that drinking plenty of water for me helps. Personally, when I eat a lot of grease I tend to break out so I try and watch that.

Generally, I don’t wear a lot of makeup, so that seems to help. I would say diet definitely is a factor but I haven’t really been able to pin point any one factor. One thing I like to do is clay masks, maybe once every couple of weeks. I usually only wash my face with soap and water. Hope you get it sorted!

Have a great day

Have you tried BeautyCounter products? They don’t have any harmful chemicals or ingredients and have proven to work. They have a line called CounterControl specifically for acne. Using the 4 piece regimen has made a drastic difference in the acne in just two weeks and I am confident it could help you. It is totally safe to use and continue to use if you became pregnant as well. Please check it out: http://www.beautycounter.com/jenniferbobrowski The line is called: CounterControl

Janae, just wanted to say you are beautiful! You have a gorgeous smile no matter what kind of skin day you are having.

I’m sure food has something to do with my skin, but it’s hard to pinpoint which food group is the cause… During holidays I am eating and drinking more meat/dairy/sugar/alcohol and less water/veggies and sleeping less, and my skin always gets worse but which one is the cause??? Usually I just take everything in moderation and then I don’t have any issues at all except for the occasional zit (lucky). In the last two years or so, I did also switch over all of my skincare to better quality (and generally more expensive…) brands focusing on dry, sensitive skin which is what I have. No fancy routines, just some quality basics, and I never feel like my skin is too dry or clogged up or anything. Ok probably this comment isn’t helpful at all for anyone else but hey I already wrote it…

I love your blog! Yes, Food is a strong contributor to skin issues. In my experience, gluten and processed foods are the guilty parties. That means wheat products and the popular, processed “Gluten Free” products. The good news is that once you have eliminated the gluten and chemicals from your diet, you can occasionally and in small doses reintroduce the foods in moderation. I know you love cookies and cakes and all things delicious, as do I. It’s not goodbye forever, just taking a break ;-)

I’ve struggled with acne a lot of my life and worked with a dermatologist. Ly personal opinion is that it has less to do with diet and more to do with hormones. During each of my five pregnancies, my skin cleared, was less oily, and looked great. But after pregnancy, my skin gradually worsens during breastfeeding. I have never had a long break between breastfeeding and subsequent pregnancies, so I’m curious what will happen after I wean this baby. I’ve also seen changes in onmy skin with birth control. It’s really frustrating in that stage of life because there isn’t much you can use as far as medication to help.

I guess an elimination diet won’t hurt to try, but in the end, I think your dermatologist will be there most helpful, not a bunch of people in the internet.

I think you are beautiful inside and out either way!

Jenae!
I swear my acne after kids is hormonal. I eat a really clean diet, only drink water, and my skin is worse than ever. The only thing different now is that I’ve had 2 kids! A few things that have really helped me is using Retin-A 1.0 every day along with a moisturizer with hyaluronic acid in it. That was key for me because other moisturizers would just make it worse. I’ve been using neutropenia hydro boost water gel and it has improved my skin tremendously! Good luck!!!

I have had issues with my skin for…forever. The only things that have truly worked for me (I can’t tell you how many dermatologists I have seen, antibiotics and topical gels I have tried…) has been proactiv (almost 20 years ago when I was in school) and then more recently after having kids – Unblemish by Rodan & Fields. I don’t sell it – just have been extremely happy with the outcome from the product! Best of luck – I know how awful skin issues can be!

I feel like teen acne is different than grown up acne, but my 16 year old recently gave up dairy and it has had a huge positive impact on her skin. She is also using Curology. It is definitely worth a try.

I had acne until I was probably 30 and then it slowly but surely went away. At 42 I get a random zit here and there, but my skin is soooooo different that in used to be.

Not sure if anyone has mentioned it above but I love collagen peptides for this exact reason. It’s made a huge difference in my skin. I use thing brand and their vanilla bean and chocolate flavours are amazing!
https://sportsresearch.com/products/collagen-peptides-hydrolyzed-gelatin?variant=35117076936