How is my skin connected to my gut and microbiome?

Your skin and gut “talk” via the gut–skin axis. The microbes in your intestines help regulate:

• Inflammation & immune tone (cytokines that influence skin reactivity)

• Barrier integrity (both gut lining and skin barrier)

• Metabolites (e.g., short-chain fatty acids) that calm redness and support repair

When the gut bacteria is imbalanced (dysbiosis), you may see flaring, dryness, itching, congestion, or breakouts on the skin.

Acne: what actually drives it?

Acne can be a mix of:

• Hormone signals (increased androgens and sebum production)

• Microbiome shifts (on skin and in the gut) that change inflammation

• Clogging and sebum quality

• Lifestyle inputs (diet, stress, sleep, skincare habits)

Hormones + Microbiome = Breakouts

• Androgens can thicken sebum and speed up cell turnover resulting in clogged pores.

• Gut dysbiosis can amplify systemic inflammation and insulin resistance, which may worsen androgen signalling.

• Improving insulin sensitivity (protein/fibre balance, smart carbs, movement) and gut balance can reduce the hormonal acne.

What we do: adjust the microbiome, personalise nutrition, calm gut inflammation, support barrier lipids, and consider targeted nutrients (e.g., zinc if low). We can arrange hormone or microbiome testing if clinically useful.

Psoriasis: is it autoimmune and microbiome-related?

Psoriasis is an immune-mediated skin condition with rapid skin cell turnover. Many people with psoriasis show gut microbiome differences and higher intestinal permeability markers.

Support pillars: anti-inflammatory eating pattern, omega-3s from food, vitamin D sufficiency, stress regulation, gentle topical care, and gut-focused strategies to steady immune signalling. We work alongside your GP/dermatologist if you’re on prescription therapies.

Eczema: what triggers flares?

Eczema involves a weakened skin barrier plus immune reactivity. Triggers include dryness, irritants, stress, temperature shifts, and sometimes foods/environment.

Microbiome angle: both gut and skin microbiome composition influence flares. Supporting ceramides/skin lipids, correcting nutrient gaps (e.g., essential fatty acids), and calming gut inflammation can reduce itch–scratch cycles. We build a plan that layers topical barrier repair with gut-level support.

Rosacea: why the persistent redness?

Rosacea features facial flushing, visible capillaries, papules/pustules, and sensitive skin. Triggers commonly include heat, alcohol, spicy food, stress.

Microbiome link: Gut imbalance and small intestinal issues can heighten neurovascular reactivity and inflammation. We focus on trigger mapping, gut soothing, and barrier-respectful skincare, plus nutrition to stabilise blood vessel responses.

What diet changes help most across these conditions?

• Colourful plants & fibre (feed beneficial microbes; support regularity)

• Protein at each meal (steadier blood sugar and calmer hormones/skin)

• Omega-3–rich foods (fatty fish or algae) for inflammation balance

• Swap ultra-processed foods for whole-food meals

• Hydration and smart caffeine/alcohol limits for rosacea/eczema-prone skin

Are supplements necessary?

Food first. We only add supplements when they fill a clear gap (e.g., vitamin D insufficiency, iron or zinc deficiency) or provide short-term therapeutic support. Anything we use is targeted, time-bound, and reviewed with your other medication and supplements.

Do I need testing (hormones, microbiome)?

Not always, but testing is useful when:

• Acne persists despite strong basics (consider androgen/insulin markers)

• Psoriasis/eczema/rosacea have stubborn or unclear triggers

• There’s a history suggesting gut dysbiosis or malabsorption

We can arrange testing and, more importantly, translate results into a plan you can follow.

How does a naturopathic plan at The Naturopathic Co. work?

1. Long consult to map history, triggers, and goals (no rushed appointments)

2. Step-by-step plan: may include testing, nutrition, lifestyle, skincare routine, and targeted supports

3. Review & refine: adjust based on response; add testing only if it changes care

How long until I see changes?

Many notice early wins (less irritation, steadier energy, fewer flares) within 2–4 weeks; deeper changes in 8–12 weeks as the gut–skin axis settles, the microbiome shifts, and routines “stick.”

Ready to calm your skin – from the inside out?

Looking for a naturopath in Melbourne, or an Adelaide naturopath, Brisbane naturopath, Sydney naturopath, or Perth naturopath? Book with The Naturopathic Co. We’ll provide clarity and a simple plan to get your skin back on track.

If you’re interested in learning how naturopathy can support your skin health, reach out to us! We’ll guide you through the process, explain dietary recommendations, and provide you with a comprehensive treatment plan to start your health reset! Book below.

 

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To optimise your skin, optimise your gut.

To treat health issues from the underlying cause, make time to see our South Yarra naturopath,  Brisbane naturopath, Sydney Naturopath, Perth Naturopath, Hobart naturopath, or Adelaide Naturopath.

We offer services in major cities across Australia

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