For the past year, it seems like we’ve been waging an all out war on gluten. Of course, there are those that must do it for serious health reasons like celiac disease, but there are also those that have went gluten-free to lose weight. Now, some people are claiming that cutting it could help your skin too.
“Many people can have a range of reactions to gluten that can trigger various skin reactions like acne, dermatitis, or, more severely, eczema and psoriasis,” says Sarasota, FL, dermatologist Elizabeth F. Callahan, MD.
A gluten reaction in the skin typically appears around the cheeks and forehead as small, red bumps that can look like tiny pimples, even thought they’re not, says celebrity aesthetician Nerida Joy. “The big thing is the sensitivity and redness. The skin is also very sensitive to everything you put on it.”
So could eliminating gluten from your diet give you clearer skin? Yes, but only if you have a sensitivity to it. “It will definitely reduce skin redness, texture and discomfort,” says Dr. Callahan. “However, acne can have many underlying causes and it’s best to visit your dermatologist for a thorough exam and discussion. If you suspect food reactions or sensitivity, discuss that with your dermatologist, who can recommend a good course of treatment or further testing for food sensitivity.”
Let us know, could you go gluten-free?
