Algae is bad for acne.
All kinds of algae. Why? Algae comes from the sea. The sea is loaded with the mineral iodine aka iodides. Seaweed is in the algae group. There are many misconceptions about acne. We’re constantly reeducating our clients about the dangers everyday products and seemingly healthy food has on their acne breakouts.
One of the biggest misconceptions is that just because a product is natural doesn’t mean it’s good for acne and algae, like seaweed and kelp, are the perfect example of that.
We don’t recommend consuming algae…lots of our clients love dried seaweed. Seaweed is used in sushi rolls and wraps. When eating sushi, choose rice paper instead.
And, we don’t love algae as a product ingredient. Algae extract and algin as a product ingredient are the same thing as algae itself. They will all break you out. Algae of any kind will create acne.
Why does Algae Trigger Acne Breakouts?
All types of algae are triggering for breakouts because they contain high levels of iodine. Iodine is an essential mineral that we all need some amount of in our bodies. However, if ingested or used in excess, that iodine gets excreted through our follicles and pores where acne takes place.
This is where the problem stems from.
The National Institutes of Health recommends adults get 150 mcg of iodine daily. Chances are you’re getting enough iodine already if you have a well-rounded diet. Good sources include: eggs, potatoes, beef, beans and seafood like tuna, shellfish, lobsters, and sardines.
To put things in perspective: 1 gram of kelp equals a whopping 2500/mcg of iodine. No wonder we see clients break out the instant they eat a sushi roll!
Algae in Sushi Aggravates Acne
If you are a sushi-lover, don’t cry.
There is no reason to be disappointed yet. According to some experts, not all types of Sushi are acne-causing culprits. However, there are some types that you should avoid altogether including the California rolls.
Anything containing algae or nori paper will negatively impact your skin.
If you cannot part ways with sushi, the best alternative is to go for salmon sashimi with brown rice.
Products that contain soy and soy sauce affect your endocrine, digestive, and natural detox systems. Soy sauce is a big acne-aggravating culprit. This is heartbreaking to hear for a die-hard sushi gal like me.
PS: If you’re a sushi lover, don’t worry – you can replace soy sauce with coconut aminos, which can be found at any health food store or local markets. Also note: Nori sheets (algae) used in sushi rolls contain iodine, which aggravate acne as well. Use rice paper instead.
What Can You Eat Instead?
Replace dairy products with plant-based alternatives like almond milk, coconut milk, and cashew cheese. Choose freshwater fish. Check your vitamins and supplements for added iodine. Switch to using a non-iodized salt. Supplements are not excluded from this category. Vitamins almost always contain some form of iodide – it could be in the form of iodine, iodide, potassium iodide or kelp.
Read your skincare labels carefully!
Algae triggers breakouts whether it’s eaten or applied topically because iodine irritates your pores whether it’s coming from the inside out or the outside in.
Be careful with consuming protein bars – they often have potassium iodides in them.
Whey and soy protein powders for smoothies are very bad for problematic skin – try using hemp or pea protein powder instead.
Avoid all foods that contain the additive carrageen, agar-agar, alginate, or nori.
Remember, algae = acne.
Sodas & Acne
A hidden source of iodine that may be surprising to most is dark sodas.
Most dark sodas get their rich, dark brown color from a red dye that contains iodine. And remember that iodine isn’t salt itself…it’s simply a mineral that is most commonly found in salt but is also found in many other foods, including this red dye. If you consume dark sodas on a regular basis, then try switching to sodas that aren’t dark.
I’m not advocating for soda drinking but I understand not everyone will want to give it up, so instead just switch to one that doesn’t contain iodine.
Final Thoughts
We can’t reiterate enough the importance of what you put into your body is what you see on your skin. When you clean up your diet, eliminating dairy, shrimp, and sushi, you’ll be amazed at the skin clarity you achieve.
Wondering about which foods or ingredients clog your pores? Schedule an acne consultation, and we will get you on the path to your clear skin journey for glowing skin from the outside in!
Cheers to clear!
Rene