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Acne and breakouts are often seen as surface-level skin issues, but dermatologists emphasize that internal health greatly influences the appearance of our skin.
Internal inflammation and hormones influence acne and rashes.
Most people think of acne and breakouts as surface-level skin issues, but dermatologists stress that what happens inside the body often decides how our skin looks. Internal inflammation, hormonal shifts, and body weight are increasingly being linked to acne, rashes, and other chronic skin concerns. We talked to experts to find out how systemic inflammation spills over to the skin, and what you can do about it.
The Inflammation-Acne Connection
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“When you have inflammation inside the body, several chemicals like cytokines and oxidative stress come into play. These inflammatory cells disturb hormones like androgens, insulin, and sebum, resulting in increased oil production and acne on the skin,” explains Dr. Pravin Banodkar, Co-Founder & Lead Dermatologist, Skin Beyond Borders. He adds that this internal cascade can also lead to complications such as pus-filled lesions or folliculitis.
Diet, stress, and sleep are key players here. Anti-inflammatory eating patterns – rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole foods – are shown to lower inflammation and reduce acne flare-ups. “When patients adopt a good anti-inflammatory diet, their breakouts reduce considerably,” notes Dr. Banodkar.
Weight, Hormones, and Collagen Breakdown
Body weight is another overlooked factor. “When you have increased fat or body weight, insulin resistance goes up. This creates a lot of glycation, which is like internal inflammation breaking down your collagen and keeping glucose peaks high,” says Dr. Soma Sarkar, Senior Dermatologist and Co-Founder of SkinBB.
She warns that insulin resistance doesn’t just worsen breakouts. It also ties into metabolic disorders like diabetes, PCOS, and thyroid dysfunction. Visible markers such as acanthosis nigricans (dark velvety patches on the neck or folds) and skin tags are also common in people with obesity.
Breakouts, Rashes, and Skin Folds
According to Dr. Apratim Goel, Founder & CEO of Cutis Skin Solution, excess body fat functions almost like a hormone factory. “Fat tissue produces inflammatory mediators that worsen psoriasis, eczema, and acne,” he says. A higher BMI is also linked with more severe acne in teenagers and young adults.
Beyond breakouts, extra weight increases friction in skin folds around the groin, chest, and abdomen, creating the perfect environment for fungal infections and rashes. “This damp environment sets the stage for bacteria and fungi to multiply, leading to persistent discomfort,” Dr. Goel explains.
The Role of Weight Changes
Interestingly, even rapid weight loss has its drawbacks. Loose, sagging skin, stretch marks, and reduced collagen strength can increase the risk of irritation or infection. Gradual weight management is safer for both skin and body.
What You Can Do
Experts agree that managing inflammation is key. Eat nutrient-rich foods, maintain hygiene in skin folds, and aim for gradual, sustainable weight loss. “Every small step to lower inflammation inside shows up with healthier skin outside,” says Dr. Goel.
Clear skin, then, is not just about topical treatments. It’s about balancing the body from within.
Delhi, India, India
September 29, 2025, 18:25 IST
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Author: News18
