Does chocolate give you pimples? Is it bad for your skin? What science says

It all depends on which chocolate will be ingested: some can even be good for the skin tissue

For those who follow videos on social media, the approach of Easter is always full of conflicting information: “chocolate is bad for your skin”, says one; “it inflames,” says another; “It gives you a headache”… However, there is a lot of misinformation and controversy to generate discussion and improve engagement on the networks. But what does science say about the relationship between chocolate and skin?

“In fact, everything depends on the concentration of cocoa present in the formulation. Therefore, the more bitter versions provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits, but should also be consumed in moderation. In the case of white and milk chocolate, both have a high concentration of sugars and fats, which can promote inflammation and aging of the skin, depending on the patient’s dietary context,” says the dermatologist. Claudia Marcalmember of the Brazilian Society of Dermatology (SBD) and the American Academy of Dermatology.

The main question regarding chocolates is whether or not they cause acne. According to the doctor, cocoa itself is an extremely beneficial food and its concentration is not related to the appearance or worsening of acne, on the contrary: this ingredient is an ally for skin health.

“It is a powerful antioxidant and helps promote brightness and hydration. Cocoa contains flavonoids, phytonutrients with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. They help protect against UV damage, preventing wrinkles and fighting free radicals which help make skin brighter and healthier,” says the dermatologist.

Cocoa does not cause pimples

Cocoa definitely doesn’t cause pimples. Therefore, dark chocolate is also not related to acne.

“The patient’s dietary context is very important in determining whether food will have a positive or negative influence on their skin, resulting in inflammation or accelerated aging. But we know that, thanks to the high concentration of cocoa in its formula, dark chocolate – provided it is consumed without excess – can actually be an ally for skin health, as it contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties”, underlines the dermatologist. .

So you can consume chocolates with more than 50% cocoa and gold standard (with more than 70%), but pay attention to the doses: 30g per day is recommended – so you can consume on average one chocolate bar (100g). , in three or four days.

As far as white and milk chocolates are concerned, the ingredients must always be evaluated.

“The problem lies in the sugar and fats used in chocolate. Foods with fats, sugars and carbohydrates, such as milk and white chocolate, have a high glycemic index. Many studies suggest that the high glycemic load of the usual diet is involved in the appearance and severity of acne vulgaris in predisposed patients, since it favors hyperinsulinemia which, consequently, influences follicular epithelial growth, keratinization and, also, sebaceous secretion and development. of acne. Even the fats and milk present in chocolates can contribute to worsening the condition”, explains the dermatologist.

More acute problems

If you regularly consume this type of chocolate, this can go beyond acute problems, such as temporary acne. “Excessive consumption of foods with a high glycemic index is also linked to cellular oxidation,” explains Claudia Marçal.

“Our body is used to dealing with free radicals, but when there is an exaggerated production of them, our natural antioxidant system is unable to counteract them. As a result, we suffer from changes in cellular functions, including in cellular DNA, and this culminates in premature aging, with the appearance of blemishes, wrinkles and sagging – due to the loss of function of supporting proteins,” he explains.

“In the diet, foods with a high glycemic index, such as sugars, are rapidly digested by the body and transformed into glucose in the blood, thus causing a spike in blood sugar. To rebalance this high level of glucose in the blood, the body increases the production of molecules that can transform into free radicals. If an excessive consumption of carbohydrates is constantly maintained in the diet, a process called oxidative stress occurs, which triggers further problems, activating various inflammatory pathways in the body and contributing to chronic inflammation,” explains the dermatologist.

«The ideal is to avoid, if consumed frequently, milk and white chocolate, which contain more fats and sugars, both involved in the inflammatory process and in the acceleration of skin aging».

“Patients with oily skin should avoid this type of chocolate, especially if it contains peanuts and dried fruit, which bring more saturated fat to the skin and the glands will be responsible for eliminating this fat accumulation,” he concludes.

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Source: Terra

Rose

Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.