The old adage "you are what you eat" may be truer than you think, especially when it comes to your skin. While some foods can improve your complexion and keep your skin looking healthy and radiant, others can do the opposite. We spoke to skincare experts, and they revealed the top 26 foods that could be ruining your skin.

1. Sugar: Eating foods high in sugar can lead to increased inflammation and breakouts, according to skincare experts.

2. Fried Foods: Fried foods are often high in unhealthy fats, which can cause inflammation in the body, leading to acne and other skin issues.

3. Processed Snacks: Processed snacks, such as chips and crackers, contain high levels of sodium and unhealthy fats, which can lead to inflammation and acne.

4. Dairy: Consuming dairy products, such as milk and cheese, can cause inflammation and breakouts, particularly for those with acne-prone skin.

5. Gluten: Gluten can trigger an inflammatory response in some people, leading to skin issues like acne and eczema.

6. Alcohol: Alcohol can dehydrate the skin, leading to dryness, irritation, and premature aging.

7. Caffeine: While caffeine itself is not harmful to the skin, consuming too much can lead to dehydration, which can cause dullness and dryness.

8. Soy: Soy contains phytoestrogens, which can disrupt hormone balance and lead to breakouts.

9. Artificial Sweeteners: Artificial sweeteners can trigger an insulin response in the body, leading to inflammation and acne.

10. Red Meat: Consuming red meat can increase inflammation in the body, leading to skin issues like acne and eczema.

11. White Bread: Refined carbohydrates like white bread can cause a spike in insulin levels, leading to inflammation and acne.

12. Chocolate: While chocolate itself is not harmful, consuming too much of it can lead to breakouts due to its high sugar content.

13. Salt: Consuming too much salt can lead to water retention and puffiness, particularly in the under-eye area.

14. Shellfish: Shellfish can trigger an inflammatory response in some people, leading to skin issues like eczema and hives.

15. Coffee: While coffee itself is not harmful to the skin, consuming too much can lead to dehydration, which can cause dullness and dryness.

16. Spicy Foods: Spicy foods can cause flushing and redness in some people, particularly those with rosacea.

17. Processed Meats: Processed meats like sausage and bacon contain high levels of sodium and unhealthy fats, which can lead to inflammation and acne.

18. Peanut Butter: Peanut butter contains omega-6 fatty acids, which can lead to inflammation in the body and exacerbate skin issues like acne

    (Peanuts can be a healthy addition to your diet in moderation. They are a good source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. However, some people may be allergic to peanuts, so it's important to be aware of that.

    Regarding omega-6 fatty acids, they are actually essential to our diets, but the key is to maintain a healthy balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. When we consume too many omega-6 fatty acids without enough omega-3s, it can lead to inflammation in the body, including the skin.

    It's important to note that not all sources of omega-6 fatty acids are bad for the skin. In fact, some sources like avocados, nuts, and seeds can provide beneficial nutrients for healthy skin. It's all about finding a healthy balance in your diet. And when it comes to skincare, incorporating products like Sokörpe Skin-Care that are designed to nourish and protect the skin can also help maintain a healthy complexion.

19. Citrus Fruits: Citrus fruits like oranges and lemons can be too acidic for some people, leading to irritation and breakouts.

    (Citrus fruits are generally healthy for the skin as they are packed with vitamin C, antioxidants, and other beneficial nutrients. However, some people may be sensitive to the acidic nature of citrus fruits and experience skin irritation or breakouts. It's important to listen to your body and observe how your skin reacts to certain foods. If you notice that citrus fruits cause irritation, it may be best to limit your intake or avoid them altogether. Alternatively, you can still benefit from the nutrients found in citrus fruits by incorporating them into your skincare routine through products like Sokörpe's Vitamin C Serum.

20. Tomatoes: Tomatoes contain high levels of histamines, which can trigger an inflammatory response in some people.

    (Tomatoes do have several benefits for the skin, as they are high in vitamin C and antioxidants, which can help to protect against sun damage and improve overall skin health. However, for some people, the high levels of histamines in tomatoes can trigger an inflammatory response, leading to skin issues such as redness, swelling, and irritation. It is important to note that everyone's skin is unique, and while some people may have no issues with consuming tomatoes, others may experience negative effects. If you notice that tomatoes or any other food seem to cause issues with your skin, it may be best to avoid or limit consumption and consult with a healthcare professional.

21. Energy Drinks: Energy drinks are often high in caffeine and sugar, which can dehydrate the skin and cause breakouts.

22. Processed Cheese: Processed cheese contains high levels of sodium and unhealthy fats, which can lead to inflammation and acne.

23. White Rice: Like white bread, white rice can cause a spike in insulin levels, leading to inflammation and acne.

24. Margarine: Margarine contains trans fats, which can lead to inflammation in the body and exacerbate skin issues like acne.

25. Fried Chicken: Like other fried foods, fried chicken is high in unhealthy fats, which can cause inflammation in the body and lead to breakouts.

26. Soft Drinks: Soft drinks are often high in sugar and

By Alexander Brosda, CEO Sokörpe Laboratories