As a qualified GP and aesthetics specialist, I see a lot of patients in my clinic with skin concerns such as redness or inflammatory conditions, such as eczema. They are often surprised when the conversation turns to diet.
Over the past decade, scientific research has made one thing increasingly clear: skin health is closely linked to gut health.
The term gut–skin axis describes the two-way relationship between the gastrointestinal system and the skin. The gut is home to trillions of microorganisms collectively known as the gut microbiome, which play a critical role in digestion, immunity, inflammation regulation and nutrient absorption.
When the gut microbiome is balanced and diverse, it supports overall health. When it is disrupted, inflammatory signals can increase throughout the body, often manifesting visibly in the skin.
How does the gut affect skin quality?
Inflammation and Sensitivity
Chronic, low-grade inflammation originating in the gut can worsen redness, sensitivity and flare-ups. Inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema, dermatitis and psoriasis are particularly associated with immune dysregulation — much of which is rooted in gut health.
Barrier Function
Both the gut lining and the skin barrier rely on similar structural proteins and immune pathways. A compromised gut barrier is often associated with a weakened skin barrier, leading to dryness, irritation and increased sensitivity.
Nutrient Absorption
Healthy skin depends on adequate absorption of nutrients such as zinc, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins A, D and B-complex vitamins. Gut dysfunction can impair absorption, meaning even a “healthy” diet may not translate into healthy skin.
Accelerated Skin Ageing
Systemic inflammation and oxidative stress linked to poor gut health can accelerate collagen breakdown, impair skin repair and contribute to premature ageing.
Common skin conditions are rooted in the gut
Eczema and Dermatitis
Studies consistently show altered gut microbiota in individuals with eczema, particularly reduced microbial diversity. Early-life gut health has also been linked to eczema risk, highlighting the immune connection between gut and skin.
Acne and Rosacea
Although not inflammatory conditions in the same way, both acne and rosacea have been linked to gut dysbiosis, insulin regulation and inflammatory pathways influenced by diet and gut health.
Gut health and non-surgical treatments
Injectable treatments, even when performed expertly, create controlled micro-injury. Optimal outcomes often depend on a balanced inflammatory and healing response.
Gut dysbiosis and increased intestinal permeability are associated with systemic low-grade inflammation
This is particularly relevant for fillers, biostimulators and skin boosters, where tissue response matters as much as placement.
Patients with poor gut health may experience:
- Reduced collagen response to biostimulatory injectables
- Less optimal skin texture and glow after skin boosters
- Shorter perceived duration of results
How to improve your gut health
Improving gut health does not require extreme measures. Small, consistent changes can have meaningful effects on both gut function and skin appearance.
Better quality diet
Highly processed foods, excess sugar and refined carbohydrates can promote inflammation and disrupt the gut microbiome. A diet rich in whole foods — vegetables, fruit, legumes, nuts, seeds and quality proteins — supports microbial diversity.
Fibre Is essential
Dietary fibre feeds beneficial gut bacteria. Aim for a variety of plant foods rather than relying on supplements alone.
Protein matters
Adequate protein intake supports skin repair and immune function. Poor digestion or low stomach acid can impair protein absorption, affecting skin quality over time.
Stress and sleep
Chronic stress alters gut motility and microbiome balance, while poor sleep increases inflammatory markers. Both have direct consequences for skin health.
Medications and antibiotics
Antibiotics, proton pump inhibitors and some anti-inflammatory medications can disrupt gut flora. While often necessary, they should be used thoughtfully and supported with gut-friendly strategies.
Supplementation
Zinc plays a key role in wound healing and skin integrity, while vitamin D helps regulate immune responses and is linked to inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.
Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) support gut and skin barrier function, improve hydration and may reduce symptoms of inflammatory skin conditions. Regular intake of oily fish or supplementation is most beneficial.
Dr Raj Dhillon is the founder of Revital Lab in Esher, revitallab.co.uk
