Acne is a skin condition that develops when the sebaceous glands produce a large amount of oil that blocks the pores of the skin. Dirt and bacteria begins to grow within the clogged up pores causing acne. According to the National Institute of Arthritis Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS) the problem is related to the oil glands.

The oil glands are connected to the pores of the skin through the hair follicle, when excess sebum clogs the hair follicle it leads to formation of whiteheads, blackheads and pimples.

Recently researchers have reassessed their assumption that there is no link between food and acne. According to the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition in 2003, a higher amount of carbohydrate intake tends to boost up the insulin level in the body causing acne. Among the male 43 male patients, 45% of them who had food with a low glycemic index showed signs of significant acne improvement. Therefore a careful diet with low glycemic carbohydrates can help reduce the acne condition. Such food items include oats, barley, fruits, green leafy vegetables and whole grain bread.
Based on a study by the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology, dairy products with a high level of hormones can make acne worse. It is advisable to buy organic products rather than the mainstream dairy products such as milk, cheese, sour cream and butter. Consuming a lot of water is necessary as part of a detox acne diet. Water tends to wash out the toxins that tend to cause acne. Aside from that it helps to pass on sufficient nutrients that the body needs. Water has many benefits that work well for the skin as well as the body as a whole. Zinc can also be added to the diet, around 50 mg of zinc can reduce acne and clear the skin surface. Some food items rich in zinc include beans, cereals and nuts.

It is recommended that one consults a skin specialist or dermatologist before going on a detox acne diet. This will help acne sufferers understand the right steps needed to take for the individual diet plan that can vary from person to person. A useful detoxifying acne diet that will work requires careful planning and consultation with the doctor. The diet also needs to be followed on a regular basis to see effective results. One should also work on taking constant care for the skin, enhance health and hygiene to reduce the likelihood of acne formation in the long run.