Overview

Over-the-counter medications, such as benzoyl peroxide, and antibiotics, such as tetracycline, are common treatments for acne vulgaris. However, changing your diet may also help suppress breakouts and improve the appearance of your skin. If you have another medical condition that's diet dependent, such as diabetes, consult your doctor before making dietary changes to treat acne.

Limit Milk and Dairy Foods

Milk and dairy products such as cheese and butter may contain hormones since dairy cattle are usually pregnant, according to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. Switch to milk alternatives such as rice beverage for drinking or baking. Also, you can get calcium from sources such as green leafy vegetables and fish with small bones such as sardines and salmon. Alternative protein sources include fish, beans and whole grains.

Curb Your Sweet Tooth

Refined carbohydrates such as sugar cause blood glucose and insulin levels to spike, and high insulin levels disrupt other hormonal activity. Some women with acne have high insulin levels and hormone imbalances, notes the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. Try substituting sugar alternatives such as stevia in your beverages and baking instead. Also, limit your intake of other refined carbohydrates such as cakes and pastries made from white flour.

Increase Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Not only does acne take a toll on your skin, it also affects your mood and mental outlook. However, boosting your intake of omega-3 fatty acids may help improve mental, emotional and social well-being, according to a short paper by Canadian researchers that was published in the journal "Lipids in Health and Disease" in 2008. Also, omega-3 fats were associated with a reduction in inflammatory acne lesions, which are pimples that usually contain pus. Eat more foods such as salmon, halibut, herring, flaxseed, walnuts to boost your omega-3 fatty acid intake.

Fill up on Fruits and Vegetables

Low concentrations of vitamins A and C is linked to acne and acne severity, according to a study published in the journal "Clinical and Experimental Dermatology" in May 2006. Fruits and vegetables such as apricots, citrus fruits, carrots, kale, kiwi, papaya, red pepper and spinach are loaded with these skin-healing vitamins. Alternatively, you can boost your intake of these vitamins by taking a dietary supplement.