The Link Between Gut Health & Skin Glow

Alexandra
Aug 19
3 min read

When it comes to skincare, we often think about cleansers, serums, and moisturisers. But what if the secret to clear, glowing skin lies deeper — in your gut?

Your gut and your skin are more connected than most people realise. This connection, often called the gut-skin axis, explains why digestive health issues can show up as acne, eczema, dullness, or inflammation on your face. Let’s break it down, to understand how your gut health can affect your skins glow:

Two women in brown swimsuits pose by water. Text reads: "GUT HEALTH & SKIN GLOW. THE LINK BETWEEN THEM. @BYALEORA." Mood is serene.

Why Gut Health Affects Your Skin and Glow

Your gut is home to trillions of bacteria that make up your microbiome. When your microbiome is balanced:

Nutrients are absorbed properly
Inflammation is kept in check
Hormones are better regulated
Toxins are filtered efficiently

But when your gut is out of balance (from stress, processed food, sugar, alcohol, antibiotics, or lack of fibre), it can lead to:

Inflammation → showing up as redness, puffiness, or breakouts
Poor nutrient absorption → leaving your skin looking dull or tired
Hormonal disruption → leading to cystic acne, especially around the jawline
Compromised immunity → making skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis flare

Signs Your Gut May Be Impacting Your Skin

Frequent breakouts that don’t respond to topical treatments
Redness or rosacea-like flares
Bloating, indigestion, or irregular digestion alongside skin changes
Fatigue, brain fog, and skin dullness at the same time

Your skin is your body’s biggest detox organ — if your gut isn’t coping well, your skin often takes the hit.

How to Heal the Gut-Skin Connection

1. Eat More Plant Fibre

Fibre feeds the good bacteria in your gut. These bacteria create short-chain fatty acids that reduce inflammation — the very same inflammation that can trigger breakouts.

Aim for: whole grains, beans, lentils, leafy greens, berries, nuts, and seeds.

2. Try Probiotics & Fermented Foods

Probiotics restore balance to your microbiome and strengthen your gut barrier. This calms inflammation and boosts your immune system — both vital for glowing skin.

Try: sauerkraut, kimchi, miso, kefir, or a clean probiotic supplement.

3. Support Digestion Early in the Day

Instead of caffeine on an empty stomach, start your morning with minerals and hydration. This helps your digestive system “switch on” without adding stress to your gut.

Try: mineral drops in water, warm lemon water, or herbal teas.

4. Ditch Trigger Foods (Mindfully)

Processed sugar, alcohol, and excessive dairy can trigger gut inflammation. You don’t have to cut them forever — but noticing your personal triggers can transform both digestion and skin clarity.

5. Manage Stress (Cortisol Counts!)

Your gut lining is sensitive to stress hormones like cortisol. High stress = more gut permeability, which can = breakouts.

Try: meditation, breathwork, journaling, or 5 minutes of stillness daily.

The Glow From Within

When your gut is healthy, it shows. Skin looks brighter, more hydrated, and less inflamed. Healing your gut isn’t about perfection — it’s about gentle daily habits that restore balance to your body.

Remember: Skincare doesn’t stop at the bathroom mirror. What you eat, how you manage stress, and how you support digestion all matter just as much as the products you apply.

Next Steps for You

Read more holistic skin + wellness guides on our blog: www.byaleora.com
Download your FREE Wellness Glow Tracker via the link in bio or Patreon — designed to help you track skin, cycle, and daily rituals together
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