This common gut problem may trigger acne and rashes
Can constipation cause skin breakouts? (Photo: Freepik)
Constipation can influence not only digestion but also skin health. Disrupted gut function can alter the microbiome, hormonal balance, and the body’s detoxification processes, which may sometimes appear as skin breakouts, according to Eating Well.
How the gut affects the skin
According to Frontiersin, inadequate water intake, low fiber consumption, and lack of physical activity can contribute to constipation. Stress and changes in daily routines are also common causes.
When constipation occurs, waste products stay in the body longer, which can affect overall skin health through systemic inflammatory processes.
Constipation and skin breakouts often share the same root causes, such as stress, dehydration, low fiber intake, poor sleep, or a diet high in refined and ultra-processed foods.
Dermatologist Karen Campbell explained that the gut microbiome can worsen acne, making dietary improvements a key focus.
The gut microbiome and its lining help regulate immune responses and inflammation throughout the body. When this system is out of balance, inflammatory signals may increase, which in some people can aggravate inflammatory skin conditions like acne.
Acne is influenced by multiple factors, including genetics, hormones, skincare habits, and environmental exposure.
How to relieve constipation and improve skin health
Lifestyle changes can help address both issues. Recommended strategies include:
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Stay hydrated – Drinking enough water keeps stools soft and easier to pass. Proper hydration also supports skin health by maintaining moisture.
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Increase fiber intake – Fiber adds bulk to stools and promotes regular bowel movements. Include a variety of fiber-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds.
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Exercise – Physical activity stimulates gut muscles and aids bowel movements.
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Establish a toilet routine – Try to go at the same time daily, ideally after meals when the digestive system is naturally more active.
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Manage stress and sleep well – Stress and poor sleep can disrupt digestion and trigger skin breakouts.
It is important to consult a doctor if breakouts persist for more than 2–3 weeks or are accompanied by abdominal pain, sudden weight loss, or blood in the stool.
Earlier, we shared 7 tips to improve digestion and reduce cancer risk.
This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.
