You are what you eat—especially when it comes to your skin.

If you’ve been struggling with chronic skin conditions like acne, rosacea, or eczema, and traditional topical treatments only go so far, the real root of the issue might be deeper than your skin. At Dermatology Associates, Dr. Sonya Johnson is taking a whole-body approach to skin wellness by exploring an often-overlooked connection: your gut health.

Here’s what you need to know about how your digestive system may be influencing your complexion—and how addressing your gut can lead to clearer, calmer skin.

Your Gut and Skin Are Talking—Here’s How

Your gut and skin are connected through what’s known as the gut-skin axis—a complex network of signals between your digestive, immune, and nervous systems. When your gut is balanced and healthy, it promotes less inflammation throughout the body, including your skin.

But when things go wrong—like an imbalance of gut bacteria (called dysbiosis), food sensitivities, or chronic inflammation—your skin often reacts.

Common Skin Conditions Linked to Gut Health

1. Acne

Gut imbalances can lead to systemic inflammation, which increases oil production and triggers acne breakouts. Diets high in sugar, dairy, and processed foods can also spike insulin levels, further aggravating acne-prone skin.

2. Rosacea

Many rosacea patients report flares after eating spicy foods, alcohol, or dairy—common irritants to a sensitive gut. Research also suggests a link between rosacea and gastrointestinal conditions like SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth).

3. Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)

An impaired gut barrier can lead to increased permeability, sometimes called “leaky gut,” which allows toxins and undigested food particles to escape into the bloodstream. This can trigger immune responses and inflammation, making eczema worse.

What Can You Do? Start With Gut Health Services at Dermatology Associates

At Dermatology Associates, Dr. Johnson doesn’t just treat the surface—she looks at the full picture. That’s why we offer gut health consultations and services that complement your dermatologic care.

Here’s how we help restore the gut-skin connection:

Nutritional counseling to reduce inflammatory foods and support skin healing

Supplements or probiotics tailored to rebalance gut flora

Hormone and digestive testing to detect hidden triggers

Anti-inflammatory skincare regimens to reduce irritation as your gut heals

Whether your goal is fewer flare-ups or long-term skin clarity, addressing gut health may be the missing piece of your skincare journey.

Whole-Body Dermatology, Right Here in Indiana

Dr. Sonya Johnson believes beautiful skin is an inside job. By combining advanced dermatologic treatments with functional approaches like gut health support, she helps patients achieve real, lasting improvements.

Let’s Heal Your Skin from the Inside Out

If you’re tired of trying creams that don’t work, or if your skin seems to flare up after meals, it’s time to dig deeper. Schedule a gut-skin consultation at Dermatology Associates today.

📍 Indianapolis Office: (317) 257-1484

📍 Batesville Office: (800) 303-3228

📍 Tipton Office: (765) 675-1410

Clear skin starts in the gut. Let’s get your glow going from the inside out.