If you’ve ever noticed a breakout during a stressful week or a skin flare-up after certain foods, you’re not imagining it.

Emerging research highlights a connection between your digestive system and your skin — often called the gut–skin axis. While skincare products play an important role, overall skin health may also be influenced by what’s happening inside your body.

Here’s what you need to know.

What Is the Gut–Skin Axis?

Your gut is home to trillions of microorganisms — including bacteria, fungi and viruses — known as your gut microbiome.

When this ecosystem is balanced, it helps support digestion, immune function and overall wellbeing. When the balance is disrupted (sometimes referred to as dysbiosis), it may contribute to inflammation in the body — which can sometimes show up on the skin.

How Can the Gut Influence the Skin?

There are several ways digestive health may interact with skin health:

Immune Support

A large portion of your immune system is located in your gut. A healthy microbiome helps support normal immune responses, which may influence inflammatory skin conditions.

Nutrient Absorption

Your gut helps break down food and absorb nutrients that are important for maintaining healthy skin.

Inflammation Pathways

When the digestive system is disrupted, it may contribute to increased inflammation in the body. Inflammation can play a role in certain skin concerns.

The skin has its own microbiome. The gut microbiome produces compounds in our gut that enter the blood stream and may be transferred to the skin. These compounds may impact the skin microbiome and therefore the skin. While it is not fully understood exactly how this happens, more research into the exact causes continues to be explored.

Skin Conditions Commonly Linked to Gut Health

Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)

Eczema is an inflammatory skin condition influenced by multiple factors, including genetics and immune function. Some research suggests differences in gut bacteria diversity may be observed in people living with eczema.

A prebiotic diet that supports beneficial gut bacteria may assist overall immune health, which in turn may help support skin health.

Acne and Breakouts

Acne can be influenced by hormones, genetics, stress and inflammation. Stress, in particular, may impact both digestive comfort and skin clarity.

Supporting gut health is one part of a broader approach to maintaining healthy-looking skin.

If acne is persistent or severe, speak with your medical Practitioner or pharmacist about appropriate treatment options.

5 Ways to Support Gut Health for Healthier-Looking Skin

Improving gut health is a long-term strategy that supports overall wellbeing. Here are practical steps you can take:

1. Increase Prebiotic Intake

Prebiotics helps nourish beneficial gut bacteria.

Include more:

• Vegetables and fruit
  
  
• Wholegrains
  
  
• Legumes
  
  
• Nuts and seeds
  
  

Resistant starch (found in foods like cooled potatoes, green bananas and wholegrains) may also help support beneficial gut bacteria.

2. Add Fermented Foods

Fermented foods contain naturally occurring beneficial bacteria.

Try including:

• Yoghurt with live cultures
  
  
• Kefir
  
  
• Sauerkraut
  
  
• Kimchi
  
  
• Miso
  
  

Choose options with minimal added sugar or salt where possible.

3. Stay Hydrated

Water supports digestion and nutrient absorption. Adequate hydration also supports overall skin health.

4. Manage Stress and Prioritise Sleep

Chronic stress and poor sleep may affect both your gut and your skin.

Simple strategies such as regular exercise, mindfulness, and a consistent sleep routine may support overall balance.

5. Be Gentle With Your Skin

Your skin has its own microbiome. Over-washing or using harsh antibacterial products may disrupt your skin barrier.

Choose soap-free cleansers and moisturisers that support skin barrier health.

Should You Take a Probiotic Supplement?

A food-first approach is ideal, but some people choose probiotic supplements to support digestive system health and maintain healthy gut flora.

Different probiotic strains have different actions, and not all products are the same. There is no one-size-fits-all solution.

If you’re considering a probiotic, speak with your pharmacist or medical practitioner to determine whether it may be appropriate for your individual needs.

Always read the label and follow the directions for use. If symptoms persist, see your Medical practitioner.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can changing my diet cure eczema?

A: There is no single cure for eczema. However, maintaining a balanced diet that supports overall gut and immune health may assist in managing symptoms as part of a broader treatment plan. Speak with your medical practitioner or dermatologist for personalised advice.

Q: What foods may disrupt gut health?

A: Diets high in highly processed foods, added sugars and excess alcohol may affect the balance of gut bacteria. Focusing on wholefoods and fibre may help support digestive health.

Q: How long does it take to improve gut health?

A: The gut microbiome is constantly changing. While dietary changes can influence digestion relatively quickly, building long-term balance requires consistent healthy habits.

Q: Can antibiotics affect my skin?

A:  Antibiotics like all medicines, may also cause side effects which in some people could involve the skin. They may also disrupt the skin microbiome. If you have concerns or questions about your antibiotic, please speak with your pharmacist or medical practitioner 

Need Support?

If you’re experiencing ongoing skin flare-ups, digestive discomfort, or both, your pharmacist can help guide you on next steps. For persistent or worsening symptoms, consult your medical practitioner or dermatologist.

Disclaimer: This information is general in nature and does not replace medical advice.Vitamins may only be of assistance if dietary intake is inadequate. Vitamins do not replace a balanced diet. Always consult your pharmacist or GP for personalised guidance.

References

• Eczema Association of Australasia. (n.d.). Gut Health and Eczema: The Gut–Skin Connection.
• Better Health Channel. (2026). Gut health – Summary and key facts.
• Better Health Channel. (2026). Eat a high fibre diet.
• Better Health Channel. (2026). Gut health and stress.
• Healthdirect. (2024). Gut microbiome and your health: Key facts.
• Healthdirect. (2024). What is the microbiome?
• Healthdirect. (2024). What factors can affect my gut microbiome?
• CSIRO. (2025). The role of resistant starch in a healthy gut.
• Queensland Health. (2025). My Amazing Body: The Skin Microbiome.