Do you ever feel like your skin is working against you? Despite all your efforts to eat a healthy diet, drink plenty of water, and use gentle skincare products, you still struggle with acne and breakouts. Well, it turns out that one common ingredient in our diets – iodized salt – may be to blame.
How iodized salt can trigger acne?
Iodized salt is a type of table salt that has been fortified with iodine, a mineral that is important for thyroid health. While iodine is necessary for proper body function, consuming too much of it can have negative effects on the skin. When we eat foods that are high in iodine – like iodized salt, seafood, and dairy products – our body excretes the excess iodine through the pores on our skin.
This can lead to a condition known as iododerma, which is characterized by inflamed, acne-like bumps on the skin. In some cases, the bumps may even fill with pus and become painful. The reason this happens is that iodine can irritate the hair follicles and oil glands in the skin, leading to inflammation and breakouts.
On the other hand, natural salt – like sea salt, Himalayan pink salt, and Celtic salt – is harvested from natural sources and contains a range of minerals and trace elements that are essential for proper body function. For example, Celtic salt contains minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium, while Himalayan pink salt is rich in iron, calcium, and potassium. These minerals not only help balance out the sodium content of the salt but also offer additional health benefits.
So, if you’re struggling with acne and breakouts, it may be worth taking a closer look at your diet and cutting back on iodized salt and other high-iodine foods. Instead, try using natural, unrefined salt options like sea salt, Himalayan pink salt, Celtic salt or Redmond’s real salt, which are lower in iodine and offer a range of health benefits. You can also experiment with other flavor-enhancing alternatives like herbs, spices, and citrus juices.
Of course, changing your diet alone may not be enough to clear up your acne. It’s important to practice good skincare habits as well, like cleansing your face twice a day, using non-comedogenic products, and avoiding touching your face.
And if you’re still struggling with persistent breakouts, don’t hesitate to reach out to a Holistic Acne Specialist for personalized treatment options.
Do you struggle with acne and need help clearing your skin without medications? Let’s schedule a consultation virtual or in the office so I can educate you on the root causes of your breakouts and create a customized plan on how to get it under control.
