It’s time to get real and share a little piece of my story with you. Growing up, I experienced a struggle that many of us face (get it?), but don’t always like to talk about: acne. From those awkward middle school years to adulthood, it seemed like my skin just couldn’t catch a break. I can even remember my very first zit: I was in 4th grade and a zit popped up right in the MIDDLE of the bridge of my nose. I remember my mom and sister telling me to use the Noxema pads we had stashed in the bathroom; ooooff I can still feel that burn when I think about it!! I’m not sure how long it took from that first zit to have a forehead, and then face, full of zits – but they stuck around for a long long time. I didn’t think they would ever go away!

Acne can take a toll on not just our complexion, but also our self-esteem. I vividly remember those moments of self-doubt and insecurity, constantly searching for quick fixes or magic potions to try to make it all vanish overnight. I tried products like Proactive – but as a middle schooler definitely didn’t have the kind of responsibility needed to stick with that kind of system. In high school I saw a dermatologist who prescribed Tazorac – it made my face sooo sensitive and red!! Then as an adult I found benzoyl peroxide, but was I really going to buy this little $5 tube forever? It all felt like defeat. It was a losing battle and I felt stuck.

Don’t worry – there’s a light at the end of this struggle tunnel. Through trial and error, and loads of patience, I discovered new lifestyle habits and a fresh perspective on self-care. But the real secret is – I didn’t know what was happening until it happened. Hindsight 20/20, right? I fell into the wellness world first through a gym and bodybuilding competitions, but it would take another four+ years to figure out the connection between what I was consuming and the way I felt overall, and the way my skin looked.

Once I figured out all the junk I was eating was causing my breakouts (not just sugar!), it made sticking to a plant based diet WAY easier! I knew if I continued to eat a well rounded diet (essential nutrients!!) I could have more control over the blemishes on my skin (it was not always just my face). BUT THEN – I got too confident. Cocky even. I was feeling amazing, skin glowing, so I started to dabble in some junk again. Some baked goods, some candy, a little here and there and I had no issues…but then I went overboard. Adding in frequent treats, like daily, and slowly cutting back on the amount of veggies I was eating. Then before I knew it I had zits popping up again. So I’m here to tell you I’m back to eating plant based to get my insides back on track, and I want to show you how it works.

I also want you to know you’re not alone and there is a way to clearer skin, without expensive creams and doctors visits. I’ll be offering tips, guidance, and a sprinkle of inspiration to help you break free from the constraints of acne and uncover your beautiful, confident self – through a complete, balanced diet – no special meds needed 🙅‍♀️ just A LOT of good food! This is your holistic way to clearer skin.

So, let’s connect and support each other on this incredible adventure. What skin concerns have you been battling? Share your experiences in the comments or DM me on Instagram @kateneeds_

Remember: true beauty lies in self-acceptance and the courage to embrace our unique stories. Let’s embrace confidence together! 💪💖

And if you’ve had ENOUGH of your own skin struggles, you can start the same program I used RIGHT NOW! Follow the link: HERE. This program is 4 weeks of food sensitivity elimination plus 2 weeks of reintroduction. Includes all program materials, guidance, recipes, meal planning ideas, tips, tricks, and more!